Grade 2

Kindergarten through second grade students are introduced to an integrative approach of Social Studies by exploring aspects of self, others, families and communities across the world in developmentally responsive ways. In early years, children develop a foundation for the entire social studies program beginning in Kindergarten; therefore, Social Studies must be an essential part of the daily curriculum. As students are acquainted with diverse classmates, they develop awareness to the similarities among individuals in the classroom as well as within the school, community and world. Comparing family traditions enable students to accept and appreciate their pluralistic society and acquire a sense of purpose regarding their role and the role of other citizens within the community and world. K-2 students develop geographic awareness of their surroundings by using geographic representations to process information about locations using maps and globes. They learn that people not only use the environment, but also modify or adapt to it. In history, students begin to develop the ability to think like an historian as they acquire knowledge of history to understand the past and present. Students begin to appreciate the influence history has on their daily lives as they identify contributions of historical figures. They examine why certain events and people are celebrated through national holidays. In economics, students develop and build upon basic economic concepts by relating to their own wants and needs.

History

1. 2.H.1 Understand how various sources provide information about the past.
   

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   1. 2.H.1.1 Use timelines to show sequencing of events.
   2. 2.H.1.2 Identify contributions of historical figures (community, state, nation and world) through various genres.
   3. 2.H.1.3 Compare various interpretations of the same time period using evidence such as photographs and interviews.

Geography and Environmental Literacy

1. 2.G.1 Use geographic representations, terms and technology to process information from a spatial perspective.
   

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   1. 2.G.1.1 Interpret maps of the school and community that contain symbols, legends and cardinal directions.
   2. 2.G.1.2 Interpret the meaning of symbols and the location of physical and human features on a map (cities, railroads, highways, countries, continents, oceans, etc.).

1. 2.G.2 Understand the effects of humans interacting with their environment.
   

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   1. 2.G.2.1 Give examples of ways in which people depend on the physical environment and natural resources to meet basic needs.
   2. 2.G.2.2 Explain how people positively and negatively affect the environment.

Economics and Financial Literacy

1. 2.E.1 Understand basic economic concepts.
   

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   1. 2.E.1.1 Give examples of ways in which businesses in the community meet the needs and wants of consumers.
   2. 2.E.1.2 Explain the roles and impact producers and consumers have on the economy.
   3. 2.E.1.3 Summarize the concept of supply and demand.
   4. 2.E.1.4 Explain why people and countries around the world trade for goods and services.
   5. 2.E.1.5 Explain how money is used for saving, spending, borrowing and giving.
   6. 2.E.1.6 Summarize the role of financial institutions relative to savings.

Civics & Governance

1. 2.C&G.1 Understand the purpose of governments.
   

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   1. 2.C&G.1.1 Explain government services and their value to the community (libraries, schools, parks, etc.).
   2. 2.C&G.1.2 Explain how governments establish order, provide security and create laws to manage conflict.

1. 2.C&G.2 Understand the roles and responsibilities of citizens.
   

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   1. 2.C&G.2.1 Exemplify characteristics of good citizenship through historical figures and everyday citizens.
   2. 2.C&G.2.2 Explain why it is important for citizens to participate in their community.

Culture

1. 2.C.1 Understand how various cultures influence communities.
   

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   1. 2.C.2.1 Explain how artistic expressions of diverse cultures contribute to the community (stories, art, music, food, etc.).
   2. 2.C.2.2 Recognize the key historical figures and events that are associated with various cultural traditions.
   3. 2.C.2.3 Exemplify respect and appropriate social skills needed for working with diverse groups.