Abstract:

The aim of this research is to reveal how and how often the concept of "religion" being addressed in the controversial topics of 4th, 5th, 6th and 7th grade Social Studies course books which is studied as compulsory in elementary and junior high schools. In this direction, the textbooks have been examined and the frequency of the conceptualization of religion in the relevant unit of each course book has also been examined and the percentages and frequencies have been calculated and tabulated. Later, on the interpretation of the current table is tried to be interpreted. The frequency of use of the concept of "religion" in the books examined is more in the 6th grade Social Studies textbook and the concept of "religion" has been used in this book 48 times. The frequency of use of the concept of "religion" in other social studies books is as follows: The rates are 6% in the 4th grade Social Studies Course Book, 16% in the 5th grade Social Studies Course Book and 17% in the 7th grade Social Studies Course Book. In addition, the frequency of use of the concept of "religion" varies according to the units in the Social Studies textbooks. These findings show that the concept of religion is included in different subjects of 4th, 5th, 6th and 7th grades of the Social Studies Course. However, as in other controversial topics, the attitude of the current political structure, the condition of the country, the approach of the parents, the administration's view on "religion" may negatively affect the Social Studies Course. Teachers have important duties for overcoming these negativities. For this reason, teachers should have information about controversial issues, recognize their students, and behave in a classroom environment without prejudice.

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