EDEL 462 ePortfolio

What is Social Studies?

Social studies is a social science that studies society's influence in history, civics/government, geography, and economics. History is the study of American, world, and Kansas history. Civics is the study of the individual in government as well as the rights and responsibilities as a citizen. Government is the study of the structures and processes a group of people observes in determining who has power, what choices to make, and what rules to follow and enforce. Geography is the study of Earth's surface. Economics is the study of resources. KDSE states that the goal of social studies is to prepare students to be informed, thoughtful, and engaged citizens throughout their lives. Social studies puts an emphasis on skill-based instruction for citizens with a global perspective.

KSDE Social Studies Standards, Benchmarks, and Scope & Sequence

The five social studies standards are choices have consequences, individuals have rights & responsibilities, societies are shaped by identities, beliefs, and practices of individuals and groups, societies experience continuity and change over time, and relationships among people, places, ideas, and environments are dynamic. The standards are the "ideas" that are being taught. Benchmarks are the "skills and actions" that are designed to scaffold learning using measurable assessment. Benchmarks, unlike the standards, are different from grade to grade. Scope and sequence are the content that is being taught. Scope is the "what" and sequence is the "when".

Personal Beliefs

I believe that social studies is important to teach in elementary school, but unfortunately it is not prioritized. Not only is it important to understand history, but it is also a great way to learn life skills. When I was in elementary school I remember learning history, but it was not as frequent as reading or math. In my practicum placements I have yet to observe a social studies lesson. I think that teachers should incorporate social studies throughout the day since they rarely get explicit social studies time. Using cross-curricular activities, literature, and assignments that incorporate social studies is a great way to make sure history is taught every day. That is what I hope to do in the future.