Friday, April 25, 2025

Giving Social Studies More Life in the Elementary Classroom

 



Let’s be honest—social studies doesn’t always get the spotlight in the elementary classroom. Between math, reading, writing, and all the other things packed into a school day, social studies can sometimes feel like the extra subject we "get to if we have time". But social studies is more than just facts and maps—it’s about helping kids understand the world around them and their role in it. And that’s powerful.

So, how do we deepen the presence of social studies in our classrooms? It doesn’t have to mean adding more time (though that’s always nice!). Instead, it’s about being intentional with how we weave it into what we’re already doing.

One way is through storytelling. Kids love stories—and history is full of them! Whether it’s learning about community helpers, famous historical figures, or how neighborhoods have changed over time, stories help students connect with people and places in meaningful ways.

Another way is by getting hands-on and local. When students can explore their own communities—whether that’s by creating a classroom map, doing a neighborhood walk, or sorting pictures of local landmarks—they start to see how they fit into something bigger. It builds connection, curiosity, and critical thinking, all at once.

And let’s not forget that social studies pairs beautifully with reading and writing. Have students write about their family traditions, research someone they admire, or read books that take place in different parts of the world. Suddenly, social studies becomes part of the everyday learning routine.

Most importantly, let’s teach our students that they are citizens now—not just someday. By giving them the chance to ask questions, solve problems, and share their ideas, we’re helping them grow into thoughtful, informed people who know their voices matter.

Social studies doesn’t need to be an “extra.” With some creativity and a lot of heart, it can become one of the richest, most engaging parts of the elementary day.






4 comments:

  1. Hi Samantha!

    Love your post! I can tell you have a lot of passion for teaching social studies! I love your point that our students are citizens NOW, not just someday. Getting them to realize this, and accept this, brings us one step closer to understanding that their voice MATTERS!

    It's wonderful that social studies can be linked with reading and writing. The lessons they learn in ELA class can be reinforced in social studies class, and vice versa. Our students can only benefit from more reading and writing practice.

    I like how you pointed out that more social studies doesn't have to mean more time, we just have to be more intentional about how we "weave" it in to the day. I totally agree! Getting creative to teach students about their role as a citizen of the world should be our goal. Students WANT their voices to be heard, and we need to be ready to LISTEN and steer them in the right direction.

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  2. Hi Samantha, I really like how you mention storytelling as a medium for weaving social studies into ELA content. The 4th grade team I've been working with this year has a really good practice of having a rotating read-aloud twice a week. Having sat in and ran some of these read-alouds some of the kids favorite books (and my own) have been social studies content. From biographies to stories that represent cultures they are unfamiliar with to even Greek mythology, these texts are not only fun to listen to and make more worldly in their outlook, but also with the follow up questioning help boost kids critical thinking skills and empathy for the past. While it might not be realistic to create a lot more dedicated social studies time, I think you've hit on some really cool ways to meaningfully integrate social studies into other subjects too. Thanks for your post!
    Isaiah

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  3. Hi Sam,
    Your idea to explore local resources is such a valid one. It can be too easy to get lost in a textbook and forget that social studies is all around us now, not just in the past. To your point regarding learning about how to be a citizen now, you could not be more on task. To be a citizen today is significantly more involved than any other time in history (in my personal opinion) due to the need to also be a global citizen. There is discomfort in this, but ensuring students know how to make their voices are heard in a positive, impactful way will help our world be a better place.
    I love your storytelling ideas! There are so many works across all the grade levels that are worthwhile and explore an aspect of social studies; in fact, my challenge would be narrowing them down! I am going to add to my "future social studies class ideas" list to do a class-wide read on a subject perhaps slightly off the beaten path.
    Thank you for your voice!
    Warmest,
    Erin

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  4. Hi Sam! This is such an inspiring reminder that social studies isn't just a subject—it's a lens through which kids learn to understand themselves and the world. I love how you reframed it from being an “extra” to being essential, and your practical ideas for integrating it are spot on. Storytelling, local connections, cross-curricular ties—these are all powerful ways to make social studies feel alive and relevant.

    Your point about students being citizens now, not someday, really struck a chord. That message alone has the power to shift a classroom culture. Do you have a favorite story or moment when a student really "got it"?

    -Mason

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