Social Studies CAN Be More Than Recall!

Throughout the semester, I have learned so many things regarding social studies, including various teaching methods. As a matter of fact, my opinion has changed about social studies. I no longer think it is boring, and just recall of facts. Yes, this is what many students believe, but it is because this is the exact way they are being exposed to social studies.... in a boring way! Social studies can be SO much more!!

I can assure you that I am now a strong supporter of history and social studies education. Due to standardized tests, teachers are being forced to cram in math and reading, because there is so much emphasis on these subjects. As a result, social studies is being slashed, or even left out of instruction. If the school district, or principal, does not support social studies instruction, there are other ways to incorporate it into the day. Historical literature can be used during reading lessons. For example, trade books that are historical in nature, can be used during “story time.” This would provide an opportunity for mini lessons. For older students, chapter books, such as the historical fiction books that we shared for book talks, can be used along with those boring textbooks, if the curriculum allows it. These chapter books can be used for weeks to incorporate social studies, while still achieving the reading objectives.

The goal is to integrate social studies and history content into reading. By using social studies content for reading, it will encourage teachers to expose children to as wide a range of social studies content as possible. Instead of the simple social studies fact memorization that is emphasized now, teachers will need to focus on context which makes field trips, interactive assignments and other teaching methods that familiarize children with important social studies and historic context more important.