Social Studies

Our Beliefs

We believe that by understanding the past and engaging in the present, students develop a sense of personal, community, and global identity. Our goal in Highline Public Schools is to foster the development of responsible citizens by examining the human experience in a variety of times and places. Through an integrated approach to the study of social sciences that includes literacy, inquiry skills, and disciplinary concepts, students are empowered to impact the future by solving problems and seeking justice. 

content & concepts are...

• Culturally responsive
• Relevant and meaningful
• Historical and contemporary 

real-world skills are Promoted through...

• Cross-cultural understanding
• Civic literacy and participation
• Global awareness
• Consideration of diverse perspectives
• Discussion and discourse
• Balanced literacy

Learning Standards

Students engage in interdisciplinary studies of geography, history, civics and economics from kindergarten through 12th grade, shaped by College, Career and Civic Life (C3) Frameworks fro Social Studies. These frameworks, in tandem with the Common Core State Learning Standards for Literacy in Social Studies, guide instruction while engaging students with critical thinking, reading and writing fo real-world purpose.

Technology tools support independent and authentic inquiry and research, writing production and publication, and interaction and collaboration with others. 

READING

• Close reading of nonfiction--qualitative and quantitative evidence, primary and secondary sources
• Analysis and evaluation of text and author
• Information and media literacy
• Grade-level text complexity

WRITING

• A balance of expository and argument/opinion writing
• Routine writing for a range of purposes
• Use of a writing process
• Evidence-based and research-based writing

SPEAKING & LISTENING

• Discussion
• Debate
• Delibreration
• Collaboration