2010 Social Studies Fair Information

Instruction in social studies consists of essential knowledge, skills, and concepts from history, geography, economics, political science, and civics/government. The goal of the social studies curriculum is to provide students with the knowledge that they need to act thoughtfully in their lives, to understand the development of peoples and cultures, and to contribute to the vitality of our democratic institutions.

In meeting learning goals, teachers are encouraged to connect current events to the daily study of history, civics, geography, and economics.  The curriculum expects students to read multiple sources, engage in debates, take field trips, visit museums, write essays, conduct independent research, create projects, use the Internet, and pursue other modes of active, reflective learning. Writing is also a part of the social studies curriculum because writing enables students to organize what they have learned and demonstrate our understanding of it.

The social studies web page features information to assist you in working with your child. In the navigation pane to the left, or you can click on the links below:

Curriculum Expectations

Textbooks

Testing Information

Social Studies Fair

Web Resources

Georgia Days

Community Resources

What to Look For in the Social Studies Classroom

In the Curriculum Expectations link, you will find Curriculum Maps/Pacing Guides and Connecting Themes for grades K-12.  Notice that the document includes the approximate recommended time (pacing) as well as a brief description of the content. An explanation of connecting themes follows - these themes appear throughout the K-12 social studies curricula and are linked to content to support the curriculum. The curriculum maps are also aligned to the Georgia Performance Standards.  You will find a list of the Georgia Performance Standards at each grade level.

We hope you will make use of the resources that have been provided for you.  Please feel free to contact us should you need assistance.

Grade Level Content
Kindergarten	Symbols of America
Grade 1	American Heroes
Grade 2	Georgia, My State
Grade 3	Our Democratic Heritage
Grade 4	U.S. History to 1860
Grade 5	U.S. History since 1860
Grade 6	World Studies:  Latin America and Canada, Europe, Australia
Grade 7	World Studies: Africa and Asia
Grade 8	Georgia Studies
Grades 9-12	Required Courses: Economics (.5), Government (.5), US History (1), World History (1)