Pre-primary

Social Studies

Thematic units in Social Studies increase our younger students' knowledge of people, the world, and how we live and work together. Topics and activities relating to Social Studies' themes are often integrated with language arts, math, and science. Children learn experientially by building, creating and exploring theme-related materials and books, imaginary play in learning centers in the classroom, and participating in class trips to places of interest outside of the classroom.

Primary

Social Studies

Students learn about different cultures of people and places, traditions, food, clothing, homes, arts and crafts, and the geography and natural resources of a country. Students learn by reading and listening to theme-related texts and stories, taking part in hands-on activities and projects, and going on field trips. Students gain proficiency in reading, writing, and research, and use those skills to support their learning. The thematic units studied in social studies are often integrated with other subject areas, and are supported through the specials (art, music, physical education and science). In second and third grades, research projects are used to support thematic learning.

Topics of study at each grade level include:

> Native Americans

> Europe, with a focus on France

> William Penn & the Development of Philadelphia

> Continent of Asia, with a focus on China

Intermediate

Social Studies

Students learn about the world and its people, from ancient civilizations to modern man. By listening, reading, writing and researching, students build their knowledge base. They learn to think critically about the world, how it is shaped by the interactions of humans, and what roles they may play in the future.

Topics of study at each grade level include:

Fourth grade

> Archaeology

> Primitive Man

> Ancient Cultures

> Current Events

> United States History: Westward Expansion

Fifth grade

> Middle Ages

> United States History: Government & Civil War

Sixth grade

> World Geography (Maps of the world, Physical geography)

> World Issues (Human rights, Global warming, Natural disasters)