In 5th grade social studies, students will examine change and continuity in United States history from pre-colonial times through the present day. We will study geography, history, culture, government, and economics. All tests and quizzes in Social Studies will be open note and open book. Students will also complete projects independently, with partners, and in groups.
We will begin with looking at maps and landforms. This will help students understand where we are in the world. It also builds their understanding for our science units on weather and ecosystems. Once students have an understanding of geography and the world we will focus on the United States, we will look at the cultural regions of the United States. We will spend time learning about the Indigenous Tribes who lived across what is now the United States.
Our journey through the history of the United States will continue with early settlements and the original 13 colonies. Students will learn about the events that led to the Revolutionary War and the war itself. Once students have learned about the Revolutionary War, we will learn about how the country's government was created. Students will learn about the Constitution, three branches of government, and the Bill of Rights.
After learning about the creation of the United States, we will explore how the United States expanded to the 50 states. We will spend time looking at what happened after the Civil War. We will end the year with looking at the 20th and 21st century.