Abstract

The course contents taught in social sciences, revolution history and Kemalism at  different stages of primary schools in Turkey form in learners  political, social and economical behavioural patterm towards their neighbouring countries.  The students try to form friendly or hostile behaviour against other countries. [W1] The study aims to determine what are the factors that influence  the 8^th grade students’ either hostile or friendly perception of their neighbouring countries In Kadiköy District of Ä°stanbul, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 60 8^th grade students studying in [W2] a primary school. The students were asked to provide answers to a set of predetermined questions in the interview form. The findings were transferred into text document, comparatively analyzed and combined with the defined criteria within the framework of common discourse. In the light of the findings obtained, it was observed that friendly and hostile perceptions were already developed in the students’ consciousness. It was concluded that in the formation of this consciousness, political events, national, cultural or religious issues are effective. In addition, the media and internet also play an influential role in the formation of students’ friendly or hostile perception. While creating students’ knowledge, it was determined that contemporary issues adversely affected them.

Key words: Teaching of history, friendship, hostility, primary education.