The social studies curriculum, based on guidelines developed for schools in the Diocese of Harrisburg, is designed to prepare our students to become active citizens of the world community. A strong emphasis on history and geography serves as the core of our program. This is enhanced with the incorporation of economics, civics and government. In addition to Diocesan guidelines, the Pennsylvania Academic Standards for each of these areas in considered in curriculum planning and development.
Grade 1
Our Families
Students are introduced to social studies through the study of families. They learn to identify the characteristics of a family and to distinguish the activities of family members. The children read about famous Americans and symbols of our country. The world and its resources are also studied through a look at care of our earth.
Grade 2
Our Neighborhoods
In second grade students explore their neighborhood and identify resources that come into the home from places beyond their neighborhood. They look at how people work together to benefit their community and solve community problems. Special Americans and holidays celebrated in our country are studied.
Grade 3
Our Communities
The features of the broader community are explored as students study their town and distinguish various types of communities. A look at Native American settlements and early Spanish and English colonies provide a glimpse at communities of the past. The role of government is introduced through a look at the laws and rules of a community.
Grade 4
Regional Studies of the United States
Pennsylvania Studies
The five major geographic regions of the United States are explored through a study of the physical, economic, and cultural geography of each region. The culmination of study is a look at the economic and social interdependency of all regions. Fourth grade also studies the geography, historical development, growth of business and industry, and state government of Pennsylvania.
Grade 5
United States History:
Pre-Columbian to 1877
The story of our country is introduced as students trace the origins of the first Americans and explore their lifestyle and cultural contributions. The impact of European exploration and settlement provide a backdrop to a study of the thirteen original English colonies. A study of the Revolutionary War and establishment of the United States as nation creates a setting to discuss the freedoms we value as Americans. A look at the Civil War and Reconstruction period reveals the struggles faced by our nation as we grew.
Grade 6
Our World
To gain an understanding and appreciation of our cultural heritage, the sixth grade curriculum traces the early history of man, through the development of the river valley civilizations, on to the Ancient World and Middle Ages, through the Age of Exploration and Revolution, culminating with the modern era in Europe. We explore the pyramids of Egypt, the birth of the world’s great religions, the arts and architecture of Greece and Rome, life in a medieval castle, and revolutions and wars of the 19th and 20th centuries.
Grade 7
United States History
Westward Expansion to Present Day
The story of our country that was introduced in fifth grade continues as we learn about U.S. history from the Post-Reconstruction Era to the present. As we follow the industrial growth and rise of urban culture, through the Progressive Era and the Great War, we see the emerging role of our nation as a world leader. The Roaring 20’s and Great Depression provide an insight into the origins of the cultural freedom and economic policies that shape our lives today. A study of World War II and the Cold War era lead to an understanding of our nation’s position as a superpower. The prosperity, rebellions, and reforms of the past fifty years complete the story showing how we came to be the United States of today.
Grade 8
World Geography
The world around us is explored in eighth grade as we study physical and cultural geography focusing primarily on Latin America, Asia, and Africa. The global village, human-environment interaction, international exchange and interdependence are among the themes we examine. Current events and issues of social justice are explored as we strive to prepare students for their role as responsible citizens of the world community.