Prime Social Studies

Philosophy

The social studies curriculum provides a variety of active learning experiences to help students acquire a healthy and strong sense of self.  It is sensitive to the natural egocentricity of the young child, and therefore its focus follows a natural outward progression from self, to the family, the school, the community, the country, and the world.  Prime Division social studies topics encourage students to examine their relationship to other people and places.   

Content

Social Studies.  Students study history, geography, civics, and government.  We make connections to each other, study historical figures, learn about our country, and experience national and cultural holidays.  An important element of our social studies program is developing respect and appreciation for others.  Major content areas include:

Primes J: Community Helpers, Japan
Primes F: Continents, Kenya
Primes S: Geography, Brazil 

Goals 

The social studies curriculum teaches students to:
1. Ask questions
2. Interpret, compare, and contrast information
3. Reflect upon their lives
4. Identify sequential actions, use phrases related to chronology and time, and utilize timelines to understand the passage of time
5. Identify the location and features of geographical areas
6. Examine the qualities of a positive leader and good citizen

Materials

1. Multicultural children’s literature
2. Non-fiction texts
3. Daily Geography Practice (Evan-Moore Publishing)
4. Scholastic News Magazine
5. Globes, atlases
6. Character education resources
7. Everyday Learning - Storypath

The social studies curriculum is created by the teachers using a variety of resources and is adapted to the needs of the current class.