Social Studies
August
Topics: Cardinal Directions, Map Vocabulary, and Basic Map Comprehension
Goal: The goal of this unit is to identify the four cardinal directions. This unit teaches the names and application of north, south, east, and west. Students will apply these concepts to following directions with maps and objects. This unit also teaches basic map vocabulary including the purpose of a map and the definition of a map key. Students will practice reading a map, creating maps, and following directions on a variety of map types.
September
Topics: City and Country and Traffic Symbols
Goal: The goal of this unit is to master the concept of a city and a country. Students will learn the difference between cities and countries and practice naming the city and country that they live in. This unit also teaches common traffic signs: do not enter, traffic light, stop sign, no parking, railroad crossing, pedestrian crossing, walk, and don’t walk. Students will practice name and applying the meaning of these signs.
October
Topics: Famous World Landmarks
Goal: The goal of this unit is to explore the world community through major world landmarks. Students will learn to identify the Colosseum, Eiffel Tower, Pyramids, Taj Mahal, Sydney Opera House, Statue of Liberty, Big Ben, and the Great Wall of China. This unit teaches the location and basic features of each important landmark.
November
Topics: Basic Government Vocabulary and President & Vice President
Goal: The goal of this unit is to master the basic concepts of the role of the government and the role of citizens. Students will expand basic knowledge related to civics and political institutions by identification of governmental responsibilities and the rights of a citizen. This unit also teaches the identification of the current president and vice president of the USA.
December
Topics: Needs and Wants
Goal: The goal of this unit is to master the economic concept of identifying basic needs for living including shelter, water, food, medicine, air, and water. This unit also teaches identification of items you want but don’t need to live such as toys, candy, tv, cell phone, and pets. Students will work on naming, identifying, and sorting items as needs or wants.
January
Topics: Extended Family Vocabulary and Family Features
Goals: The goal of this unit is to have students expand their knowledge of their family unit and different family cultures. This unit teaches the definition of the following extended family roles: grandma, grandpa, uncle, aunt, and cousin. Students will work on identifying the definition of these terms as well as applying these roles to their own family. Students will work on identifying diverse features of families such as types of family members, living situation, and attributes.
February
Topics: Holidays Around the World
Goal: The goal of this unit is to further explore cultures around the world through instruction on different holidays around the world. This unit teaches the basic concept, date of occurrence, and location of celebration for the following holidays: Chinese New Year, Las Posadas, Saint Lucia Day, Diwali, Christmas in Australia, and Hanukkah. Students will practice identification and comprehension of these holidays.
March
Topics: Famous Historical Americans
Goal: The goal of this unit is to expand basic historical knowledge through exploration of 4 major historical individuals: Ben Franklin, George Washington, Martin Luther King, Jr., and Abraham Lincoln. Students will practice identifying important accomplishments of each individual as well naming the individuals based on critical features.
April & May
Review all units