Exemplary Elementary Social Studies in an Age of Standardized Testing

Session Type: Symposium

Abstract

The testing in Language Arts and Mathematics mandated by No Child Left Behind and the linking of these test scores to teacher promotion promulgated by Race to the Top has resulted in the marginalization of social studies in elementary classrooms. Yet some elementary teachers are still finding time to teach meaningful social studies.

In this symposium, panelists, including both researchers and elementary teachers, discuss how social studies instruction survives, identifying 15 practices that teachers of exemplary social studies share. Panelists discuss how social studies can play a central role in the elementary classroom, how teachers can integrate social studies knowledge and skills throughout the school day, and how this learning can carry over into children’s homes and communities.

Sub Unit

• SIG-Social Studies Research

Chair

• Andrea S. Libresco, Hofstra University

Papers

• Teaching Social Studies Within a First-Grade Learning Community - Janet E. Alleman, Michigan State University; Barbara Knighton, Teacher

• Service-Learning to Empower Second Graders as Change Agents - Stephanie C. Serriere, The Pennsylvania State University; Dana L. Mitra, The Pennsylvania State University

• Multiple Intelligences Theory to Practice in Third Grade: Call All Children to Learn - Karon Nicol LeCompte, Baylor University

• Fostering Civic Efficacy and Action Through Fifth Graders’ Civic Zines - Roi Kawai, The Pennsylvania State University; Stephanie C. Serriere, The Pennsylvania State University; Dana L. Mitra, The Pennsylvania State University

• Listening to and Nurturing Interested, Passionate, and Thoughtful Sixth Graders - Andrea S. Libresco, Hofstra University

Discussant

• Sherry L. Field, Arkansas Tech University