The Relationship Between Socioeconomic Status and Social Studies Integration in Elementary Schools

• In Event: 16.057 - Roundtable Session 5
  In Roundtable Session: 16.057-24 - Issues Affecting K–12 Social Studies Instruction

Abstract

This study examines the degree to which the enacted second-grade social studies curriculum in low- and high-SES schools aligns with existing research and guidelines in social studies and literacy. I observed 10 teachers in low-SES schools and 10 teachers in high-SES schools during typical social studies instruction 2-3 times for a total of 50 observations. I interviewed all teachers about their instruction, curriculum, learning goals, and administrative support on three occasions for a total of 60 interviews. This paper will describe and compare the quality of observed instruction in low- and high-SES classrooms and report insights gleaned from teacher interviews and questionnaires regarding possible supports and constraints on their integration attempts, as well as affordances and/or hindrances to integrated instruction.

Author

• Stephanie L. Strachan, Lawrence Hall of Science, University of California - Berkeley