Second Grade Social Studies Curriculum - United States
This curriculum focuses on building a foundation for understanding history, civics, geography, and economics within the United States.
Civics and Government
This unit introduces students to the basic principles of government and the roles of citizens.
- Community Helpers: Students learn about the various roles and responsibilities of people within their community (police officers, firefighters, teachers, etc.) and how they contribute to the well-being of society.
- Rules and Laws: Students explore the importance of rules and laws in maintaining order and safety within their communities and the country.
- Citizenship: Students learn about the rights and responsibilities of being a citizen of the United States.
- National Symbols: Students explore important national symbols such as the American flag, the bald eagle, and the Statue of Liberty, and their significance.
Geography
This unit introduces basic geographical concepts and helps students develop spatial awareness.
- Maps and Globes: Students learn how to read and interpret maps and globes, including identifying continents, oceans, and major landforms.
- U.S. Geography: Students explore the geography of the United States, including regions, states, and major landmarks.
- Landforms and Bodies of Water: Students learn about different types of landforms (mountains, valleys, plains) and bodies of water (rivers, lakes, oceans).
- Communities: Students explore different types of communities (urban, suburban, rural) and how they are shaped by their environment.
History
This unit introduces students to key historical figures and events in American history.
- American History: Students learn about important figures and events in American history, such as the Founding Fathers, the American Revolution, and westward expansion.
- Holidays and Traditions: Students explore the origins and significance of American holidays and traditions.
- Timelines: Students learn how to use timelines to understand the sequence of historical events.
Economics
This unit introduces basic economic concepts.
- Needs and Wants: Students learn to differentiate between basic needs (food, shelter, clothing) and wants.
- Goods and Services: Students learn about the production and consumption of goods and services.
- Simple Economics: Students explore basic economic concepts such as trade and bartering.
This curriculum encourages the development of critical thinking skills, research skills, and an understanding of their role as responsible citizens. |