2. Overview of Social Studies Prepare children with knowledge, skills, and attitudes they need to participate in and contribute to their worlds Focus on ensuring that children feel good about themselves first so that they can eventually make positive contributions to society Experiences—firsthand
3. Core of Social Studies Social sciences Anthropology Sociology History Geography Economics Psychology
4. Developmentally Appropriate Practice Approach to Social Studies Build on what children already know Focus on the processes of social studies Do not teach isolated facts Provide hands-on experiences Build on children’s interests
6. Goals of Social Studies Develop a child’s positive self-concept Further an understanding of a child’s role in the family Develop an awareness of a child’s own cultural heritage Provide a multicultural classroom environment Develop an understanding of the need for rules and laws Provide daily role models
7. Theories That Support Social Studies Multiple Intelligences—Howard Gardner Sociocultural Theory—Lev Vygotsky Cognitive Developmental Theory—Jean Piaget
8. Activities That Support Goals Project approach Themes Homes Families Body awareness Stories and drawings Activities specific to families and homes Maps or place awareness Three-dimensional Story mapping Personal time lines for primary-aged children
9. Field Trips Neighborhood walks Walking trips Mini-field trips Major field trips Specific-purpose field trips
10. Creating Partnerships with Families Acknowledge and respect children’s home language and culture Build a sense of trust Post weekly menus and lesson plans Develop communication systems Family get-togethers; open houses Family-teacher conferences Invite family members to share interests
11. Planning for Successful Field Trips Prepare yourself Prepare the children Prepare the families
12. Taking the Field Trip Safety first Charged cell phone Emergency contact numbers First-aid kit Count heads Enjoy!!! Follow-up Suggested field trips
