What is Social Studies?

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Why do we teach it?
Dr. Tracy Rock Department of Reading and Elementary Education UNC Charlotte

When you think of the term social studies, what are the first things that come to mind?

Social Studies Defined

-the integrated study of the social sciences and humanities to promote civic competence. Within the school program, social studies provides coordinated, systematic study drawing upon such disciplines as anthropology, archaeology, economics, geography, history, law, philosophy, political science, psychology, religion, and sociology, as well as appropriate content from the humanities, mathematics, and natural sciences (NCSS, 1994)

Ten Thematic Strands:

Curriculum Standards for Social Studies

Culture Time, Continuity, and Change People, Places, and Environments Individual Development and Identity Individuals, Groups, and Institutions

Power, Authority, and Governance Production, Distribution, and Consumption Science, Technology, and Society Global Connections Civic Ideals and Practices

Purpose of the Social Studies

The primary purpose of the social studies is to help young people develop the ability to make informed and reasoned decisions for the public good as citizens of a culturally diverse, democratic society in an interdependent world. (NCSS, 1994)

S.S. Teachers Need To Help Students

Connect the past to their present and future Recognize that there are multiple historical, geographical, and cultural perspectives, thus expanding their world views and strengthening their global citizenship Work together to analyze social problems and design proactive solutions.

Your experiences with Social Studies

How did you experience social studies as a learner?

How have you experienced social studies as a teacher?

Powerful Social Studies Teaching and Learning Is

Active Meaningful Integrative Challenging Values-based