A new suit for social studies : working with pre-servic teachers and unit building - using the understanding by design model as a guide

Abstract EN

With the rise of accountability through educational programs measured results on standardized tests focused mainly on the fields of mathematics and reading in the schools, the content of the social studies area is often not given the degree of importance needed in the curriculum.

The common approaches to the development of social studies and central units, often center on presentation of facts, and do little to increase the importance of social studies as a major component of the curriculum.

Review of the literature dealing with social studies curriculum and planning shows that a new approach to social studies is necessary for the content to be seen as part of the curriculum as important as mathematics and science.

The new approach needs to emphasize even deeper levels of understanding calling for a planning process focused on the "big idea" concepts that allow for applications of knowledge and not just deal with the facts.

In secondary social studies methods class efforts are needed to help pre-service teacher to adapt this approach to the planning and delivery of social studies.