1st Grade Introduction

Families Here and across the World

The focus for social studies in grade one is the family as it exists in America and in other countries across the world. Students begin by exploring their own culture and identity and then expand their study to other lands and peoples to learn about the ways that individuals and groups live and work. Students also begin to learn about the concept of government, including the levels of government and the foundations and principles of democracy. They become aware of the importance of economic choices for families.

Instruction should emphasize the elements of social studies literacy: the tools, strategies, and perspectives necessary for understanding the four disciplines addressed in this subject area. The chart in appendix C describes the literacy elements specific to social studies, indicating the grades at which these elements should be introduced and the grades at which a student should be expected to demonstrate the elements. The elements are also apparent in some of the sample activities provided for the indicators.