Social Studies

  • “Teaching social studies powerfully and authentically begins with a deep knowledge and understanding of the subject and its unique goals. Social studies programs prepare students to identify, understand, and work to solve the challenges facing our diverse nation in an increasingly interdependent world. Education for citizenship should help students acquire and learn to use the skills, knowledge, and attitudes that will prepare them to be competent and responsible citizens throughout their lives. Competent and responsible citizens are informed and thoughtful, participate in their communities, are involved politically, and exhibit moral and civic virtues.” (National Council of Social Studies, 2008)

    SOCIAL STUDIES K-5
    The elementary social studies curriculum is based on the Pennsylvania Academic Standards for Civics and Government, History, Geography, and Economics. Through a study of civic, historic, geographic, and economic issues, students are empowered with the knowledge, skills, and abilities to make informed decisions that are relevant to their lives today. Students develop the critical thinking and interpersonal communication skills to become responsible and productive citizens in our culturally diverse and interdependent world. 

    SOCIAL STUDIES 6-8
    The middle school social studies curriculum spirals the elementary curriculum and the four essential Academic Standards. The sixth-grade social studies curriculum examines the geography and cultures of the world. In seventh grade, a regional study approach is used for the study of the geography of North America and early American History. The eighth-grade curriculum surveys American history through the nineteenth century.

    SOCIAL STUDIES 9-12 
    Students are required to successfully complete four full-year courses in social studies that include African-Asian History, Western World History, United States History from the beginning of the twentieth century to the present, and Government and Economics. The Advanced Placement option is available in European History, American History, and Government & Politics.

    A variety of elective courses are offered to supplement the core social studies program. Semester electives are offered for the following topics: American Military History I &II, Psychology, Sociology, Stocks and Investments, The Holocaust and Understanding Law. The Advanced Placement Psychology is offered as a full year elective course.

    Social Studies Academic Standards:

    • Civics and Government (Elementary)
    • Economics (Elementary)
    • Geography (Elementary)
    • History (Elementary)
    • Civics and Government (Secondary)
    • Economics (Secondary)
    • Geography (Secondary)
    • History (Secondary)

    Access the academic standards.

    Contact:

    Elementary - Rebecca Eberly, Ed.D.

    Secondary - Kristen Barnello, Ed.D.

    National Council of Social Studies.(2008). A Vision of Powerful Teaching and Learning in the Social Studies: Building Social Understanding and Civic Efficacy. Retrieved from http://www.ncss.org/positions/powerful