Fifth Grade Social Studies

 

Instructor: Evelyn Metcalf

 

Curriculum Map, Class Page

 

In this transition year to middle school, we ask not only what the world is made of in physical terms but also what the human world is made of. We build important geography skills using an atlas and different kinds of maps to examine the Western Hemisphere and Oceania. We ask what culture is by comparing our culture to other cultures. We build our analytical skills by comparing our modern culture to the ancient cultures of the New World and to the cultures of Native Americans. We learn about our own United States focusing on aspects of geography and culture. We learn about the 50 states and capitals, our democratic government, our presidents and our money. Fifth graders study various leaders, past and present, and compare Indian Chiefs to U.S. Presidents. Finally, we compare our country to Canada and Oceania, gaining insight into the effect of location and population on culture. Students gain an appreciation for the vastness and importance of the Pacific Ocean to our world.

 

Key Questions:

• How can maps help us better understand the world?
• What are important aspects of culture?
• How can comparing our culture to another deepen our understanding and appreciation of our own culture?

 

2007-2008 Archives 5th LA and SS

 

 

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