The Importance of Discussion in Elementary Social Studies
By Joey Jones
October 10, 2012
In chapter six of Social Studies: Innovative Approaches for Teachers, Maynes and Straub stress the importance of teaching children to understand globalization and what globalization means in their personal lives. Young children have the ability to impact the world, but should begin to take opportunities to take action at the local level. Teachers should invite children to analyze issues in their immediate environment (home, school, etc.) and to ask questions and propose solutions to these issues. Maynes and Straub also suggest that age-appropriate study of controversial issues can ensure that children will:
· learn how to demonstrate care;
· understand their role as global citizens;
· understand legal issues in global contexts;
· develop appropriate personal and social views; and
· take appropriate and responsible action.
It can sometimes be difficult for teachers to discuss things like gender, sexuality, age, race, disability, culture, and religion to young children. I know that for myself especially, I would be worried about what is age-appropriate for children in regards to these issues. In a public school, a teacher could talk about differences between the children in her classroom. I believe that it is important for children to understand that diversity is one of Canada’s most special characteristics.
Not only do Canadians accept diversity, but we thrive because of our acceptance of one another. Children can often learn about diversity by simply comparing perspectives on certain issues. For example, one child in the classroom might come from a same-sex couple, and another might come from a single parent home. Teachers should familiarize children to the differences in our culture so that it is easier to understand them at an older age. It is important to instill a sensitivity to differences in children so that they can fully explore, understand and appreciate their own personal values.
October 10, 2012
In chapter six of Social Studies: Innovative Approaches for Teachers, Maynes and Straub stress the importance of teaching children to understand globalization and what globalization means in their personal lives. Young children have the ability to impact the world, but should begin to take opportunities to take action at the local level. Teachers should invite children to analyze issues in their immediate environment (home, school, etc.) and to ask questions and propose solutions to these issues. Maynes and Straub also suggest that age-appropriate study of controversial issues can ensure that children will:
· learn how to demonstrate care;
· understand their role as global citizens;
· understand legal issues in global contexts;
· develop appropriate personal and social views; and
· take appropriate and responsible action.
It can sometimes be difficult for teachers to discuss things like gender, sexuality, age, race, disability, culture, and religion to young children. I know that for myself especially, I would be worried about what is age-appropriate for children in regards to these issues. In a public school, a teacher could talk about differences between the children in her classroom. I believe that it is important for children to understand that diversity is one of Canada’s most special characteristics.
Not only do Canadians accept diversity, but we thrive because of our acceptance of one another. Children can often learn about diversity by simply comparing perspectives on certain issues. For example, one child in the classroom might come from a same-sex couple, and another might come from a single parent home. Teachers should familiarize children to the differences in our culture so that it is easier to understand them at an older age. It is important to instill a sensitivity to differences in children so that they can fully explore, understand and appreciate their own personal values.