Social Studies Curriculum

Elementary (K-6) Skills

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Section One, Part A - General

I. Reading Social Studies Material.

1. Understand (comprehend) social studies terms.

2. Learn (memorize) abbreviations commonly used.

3. Apply the newly gained knowledge appropriately.

 

II. Apply Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking to Social Studies.

1. Recognize a problem.

2. Define the problem for study (or resolution).

3. Plan how to study the problem.

4. Determine where information exists (including human resources).

5. Review original sources.

6. Read, take notes, outline, gather and organize data.

7. Interpret and evaluate information.

8. Summarize & draw tentative conclusions.

9. Recognize probable need to change and/or alter conclusion.

10. Recognize areas for further study/investigation.

11. Employ problem solving techniques.

 

Section One, Part B - Shared Skills

I. Learn to Locate Information & Develop Library Skills.

1. Examine library, newspaper, magazine, pamphlet, atlas.

   1. Learn about different newspaper sections.

   2. Recognize purpose of news media, incomplete information.

   3. Learn where to find and obtain information (letters, phone calls, data bases, etc.).

2. Utilize and interview human resources.

3. Learn to plan ahead. Determine information needed (facts, interviews and field trips)

   1. Create and initiate interviews and field trips. Write questions to be asked, information needed, investigate areas or sites, and maps needed.

   2. Learn to plan before gaining facts; determine questions to be asked; facts, data to be checked authenticated; items to be investigated, verified.

   3. Determine if information is complete or adequate.

 

II. Learn to Evaluate Information Critically.

1. Differentiate between fact and fiction; between fact, theory and assertions; request source materials & references.

2. Compare topic information from two or more different sources; recognize agreement/contradiction.

3. Draw inferences, tentative conclusions; cite sources.

4. Analyze information to determine accuracy or point of view. (advertising, different points of view, propaganda).

 

III. Interpreting Writings, Pictures, Charts, Graphs, Storytelling, Songs, etc.

1. Recognize materials which provide sources of information (books, newspapers, magazines, pamphlets, atlases, encyclopedias, data bases, etc.

2. Record (books, page numbers), take notes; describe material investigated briefly, create file system specific terms.

3. Construct simple pictures, maps, charts, graphs, tables and other pictorial material (cartoons). Recognize that various medicines are used by different cultures to create maps and pictures.

4. Relate and identify information sources and contents in context with other written data. Interpret.

 

IV. Working With Others, Accepting Responsibility.

1. Respect the rights and opinions of others.

2. Understand the need for rules, order and the necessity for observing them.

3. Follow the rules; for the classroom, school and home. Make rules as needed for group use.

4. Elect a leader when needed. Learn to accept leadership. Follow the rules set by the group, teacher, parents and authorities. Share leadership.

5. Accept compliments and criticism. Learn from both experiences; understand both types of comments are positive inputs.

6. Distinguish between individual and team work and when a team effort is needed to accomplish a group goal.

7. Learn to work effectively alone and as a member of group or team.

8. Contribute appropriate ideas, discussion, energy, and support to the group or team members.

9. Learn and develop related communication skills; develop skills for effective discussion groups, team building relationships and interpersonal growth.

 

Next: Section Two »