Social Studies Department

Departmental Philosophy

“Our concern goes well beyond the matters such as industry and commerce. It also includes the intellectual, moral, and spiritual strengths of our people which knit together the very fabric of our society…For our country to function; citizens must be able to reach some common understandings on complex issues, often on short notice, and on the basis of conflicting or incomplete evidence.”

This statement from A NATION AT RISK is essential to our understanding of the central purpose of the social studies: namely the development of enlightened citizens who can function effectively as members of the local, state, national and international communities. In light of this, it is important that we recognize the purpose of the social studies as the development of skills in communicating, participating, decision making, critical thinking, relating to other people, and serving the community.

The broad range of the social studies program addresses multicultural experiences, gender equity, and awareness, an understanding of our heritage, global perspectives, and economic and geographic literacy.

The social studies helps our students learn the skills required to function in a complex world.

General Objectives
  1. To develop the mental attributes and person traits conduce to living a rich, ethical life.
  2. To develop pride in our heritage and faith in the ideas of American democracy.
  3. To emphasize the rights and privileges of American nationality and the corresponding obligations and responsibilities of American citizenship.
  4. To develop in the student an inquiring mind that seeks truth and uses it to the betterment of society.
  5. To develop good mental health and to establish wholesome mental and emotional attitudes and habits.
  6. To develop a desire for civic participation.
  7. To develop an understanding of the democratic political process and to cooperate with others in seeking solutions to local, state, national, and international problems.
  8. To develop the ability to observe, analyze, and form self-considered judgments.
  9. To learn sound methods of investigation.
  10. To acquire the ability to evaluate information.
  11. To think critically and constructively about social, economic, and political issues of the day.
  12. To appreciate the role that individuals and organized groups play in solving problems of the world community.
  13. To recognize the ecological balance of all living things and to respect that ecological principle through wise use of human and natural resources.

View Junior High Program of Studies Grades 7-8

View Senior High Program of Studies Grades 9-12