During this semester I have learned a lot about how to improve my lesson plans when teaching Social Studies. I learned that it is really important to take time and introduce students to subjects so that they have enough background information to fully appreciate it. Also, I think it is really important to allow students to ask questions and be knowledgeable about the subjects. Children have lots of questions and theories about what has happened in the past and by allowing them to share provides meaningful learning experiences.
The two lesson plans I wrote for Social Studies were about the Wampanoag Indians and an introduction to an immigration unit. Both of this subjects have a really rich history and provide valuable insight to 1st and 2nd graders about the world. When planning I learned how important it is to provide books on all different levels for students to explore. This way they will have the oppertunity to delve further into subjects we cover in class, as well as learn about some things we may not cover. I also think it is important to present the information to students in a way that they can find their own meaning and connect history with their own lives. For example, teaching children the Pilgrims and Indians were best friends isn't factual and doesn't prepare the students for learning in the future.
When I implemented both these lessons I learned to provide lots of pictures and stories because that's what interests the kids the most. For my Wamapnoag lesson I passed around some fur pelts for the students to touch when I explained that is what Indians used as clothing. Teaching social studies is so much more than reading from a textbook. Providing hands on activities and really experiencing the history is the best way to teach it to students.
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