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The
need for an enlightened citizenry for our
pluralistic society and shrinking world has never
been greater than it is in the twenty-first
century. Therefore, it is the primary goal of
Chapin’s Upper School Social Studies Program to
promote the intellectual and social growth of our
students to meet that need.
Intellectually, students are
presented with the opportunity to study a wide
variety of topics beginning with ancient
civilizations in Fifth Grade and the growth of
Islam, sub-Saharan Africa, Asian civilizations, and
medieval society in Sixth Grade. This is followed
in Seventh grade by studies of Europe: 1300-1600,
civilizations of the Americas, and Europe:
1600-1789. Students conclude the program by
studying U.S. history in Eighth Grade. Based upon
the knowledge that children both want and need to
know as much as they can about their own world, the
study of current events is a major part of the
curriculum in all three grades. Whenever possible,
the recognition of connections between events of the
past and present is stressed.
In addition to the content to be
covered, certain skill development is emphasized in
all classes. Good speaking, writing, and listening
skills are of the utmost importance. These are
developed by several means, including note taking,
class participation, and essay writing. The
required keeping of a Social Studies notebook helps
the students to acquire needed organizational
skills. The regular assigning of homework fosters
organizational skills at the same time as it
reinforces learning.
Socially, students are required
to act responsibly, both as individuals and as a
member of a group. Respect for people and property
are high priorities at all times. The development
of opinions is encouraged as is tolerance for the
differing opinions of others.
Goals for Social Studies in Grades
5-8:
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Develop an
understanding of the reasons for studying
history and the relationships between the past
and present
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Recognize
the interrelatedness of geography, economics,
culture, belief systems, and political systems
within history
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Develop
geographic locational skills and understanding
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Understand
human and environmental interaction
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Identify
and apply basic concepts of economics
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Understand
the concept of culture and how it is transmitted
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Appreciate
the cultural similarities and differences that
exist among societies of different times and
places
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Become
familiar with the basic ideas of major religions
and ethical traditions of other times and places
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Develop an
awareness of the structure of social classes of
different times and places
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Understand
comparative political systems, past and present
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