Lower School Social Studies Program A coordinated, sequential curriculum unifies history and the social sciences and promotes the development of concepts and the mastery of methods of inquiry. Students gain an understanding of major factors that have influenced the structure of society from earliest times to present day. Geographical skills are taught in every grade and current events are regularly discussed. Teachers also seek to educate students to become effective and informed members of their community, to increase their understanding of the privileges and responsibilities of citizenship, and to instill a feeling of patriotism and national identity.
Field trips extend knowledge of local and national government.
Concepts of home and community are reviewed and extended. A broader understanding of community living is gained through the study of both similar and diverse societies. The influence of geographic, cultural, and economic factors is emphasized. The study of the North American continent, with emphasis on colonization and growth, enables students to understand our country's development by applying concepts they have learned. The study of a contemporary metropolitan community makes them aware of factors which influence their daily lives.