The aim of Social Studies, at primary and secondary level, helps students to understand the traditional values of their country and the world they live in, and also appreciate the complexities of the human experience. Students explore the complex tensions that characterise issues happening around the world and in Nigeria. Their learning starts at primary level and is explored in greater depth at the secondary level.
Upper Secondary Social Studies focuses on the explicit teaching of thinking, skills, and to allow students assess and manage real-life information in reasonable ways. It also aims to build a deep sense of in-depthness to the nation. The subject is interdisciplinary in nature, combining subjects such as Geography, History, Sociology, Political Science and Economics.
*Branches of social studies*
There are (eight 8) major branches of social studies which are
1. Culture2. People, place, and environment3. Time, country, and change4. Individuals, development and identity5. Individuals, authority, and governance6. Individuals, groups, and institutions7. Civil ideals, and practice8. Science, technology, and society
*Culture*
Through the study of culture and cultural diversity, learners understand how human beings create, learn, share, and adapt to culture, and appreciate the role of culture in shaping their lives and society, as well as the lives and the ways of others. In schools, this theme typically appears in units and courses dealing with others related courses like geography, history, sociology, etc and some othere multicultural topics across the curriculum.
*People, Place, and Environment*
This theme helps learners to develop their spatial views and perspectives of the world, to understand where people, places, and resources are located and why they are there, and to explore the relationship between human beings and the environment. In schools, this theme typically appears in courses dealing with geography and area studies, but it is also important for the study of the geographical dimension of other social studies subjects
*Time, Continuity and Change*
Through the study of the past and its legacy, learners examine the institutions, values, and beliefs of people in the past, acquire skills in historical inquiry and interpretation, and gain an understanding of how important historical events and developments have shaped the modern world. This theme appears in courses in history, as well as in other social studies courses for which knowledge of the past is important.
*Individuals, Development, and Identity*
Personal identity is shaped by family, peers, culture, and institutional influences. Through this theme, students examine the factors that influence an individual’s personal identity, development, and actions. This theme typically appears in courses and units dealing with psychology, anthropology, and sociology.
*Individuals, Authority and Governance*
One essential component of education for citizenship is for students to get the understanding of the historical development and contemporary forms of power, authority, and governance. With this process, strangers become familiar with the purposes and functions of government, the reach and limits of authority, and the differences between democratic and non-democratic political systems. In schools, this theme typically appears in units and courses dealing with government, history, civics, law, politics, and other social sciences.
*Individuals, Groups, and Institutions*
Institutions such as families and civic, educational, governmental, and religious organizations, exert a major influence on people’s lives. This majorly allows students to understand how institutions are formed, maintained, and changed, and to examine their influence. In schools, this theme typically appears in units and courses dealing with sociology, anthropology, psychology, political science, and history.
*Power, Authority, and Governance*
One essential component of education for citizenship is to allow students the understanding of the historical development and contemporary forms of power, authority, and governance. Through this theme, learners become familiar with the purposes and functions of government, the scope and limits of authority, and the differences between democratic and non-democratic political systems. In schools, this theme typically appears in units and courses dealing with government, history, civics, law, politics, and other social sciences.
*Civil ideals, and Practice*
An understanding of civic ideals and responsibilities is essential for full participation in society and it is an important component of education for citizenship. This will help students to learn about the rights and responsibilities of citizens of a democracy, and to appreciate the importance of active citizenship. In schools, the theme typically appears in units or courses dealing with civics, history, political science, cultural anthropology, and fields such as global studies, law-related education, and the humanities.
*Science, Technology, and Society*
By exploring the relationships among science, technology, and society, students develop an understanding of past and present advances in science and technology and their impact. This theme appears in a variety of social studies courses, including history, geography, economics, civics, and government.
*The essence of learning social studies and it’s values*
Understanding and appreciating real-world issues and Nigeria society Social Studies ignites a curiosity about real-world issues. It helps students to understand developments that are taking place in society and the world as well as their roles in shaping the future of the nation.
Students can explore contemporary and global issues related to governance, their roles as citizens, living in a diverse society and globalisation. These are issues that affect the lives of our children as young citizens, and this prepares them for the responsibilities they need to exercise judiciously as adults in future. Social Studies encourages students to engage in policy issues instead of just relying on the government to achieve desired outcomes.
It can also help them develops critical thinking skills Social Studies requires students to analyse multiple perspectives of a particular issue before rmaking their own decisions with well-reasoned conclusion. Through inquiry and authentic learning experiences, students can explore societal and global issues by constructing explanations, evaluating and interpreting information through making inferences, analysing evidence, comparing and contrasting perspectives, and drawing well-reasoned and substantiated conclusion.
*How to support a child in his or her own social learning*
*Encourage them to read widely, especially on current affairs, as well as listen to/watch news and documentaries* Increase their exposure to current issues that take place both in Singapore and around the world. These habits will heighten their awareness and interest in the events and developments taking place in Singapore and around the world.
*Reflect on issues they read, listen or watch* Encourage children to think through what they have read, listened to or watched. As they try to make sense of these issues, they will be more aware of their own beliefs and assumptions. They can reflect and construct their understanding of the world they live in.
*Allow children to share their perspectives* Have conversations about current issues in Singapore and around the world. Ask your children for their initial perspectives before discussing other possible perspectives. Help them to understand the various situations that led to the perspectives being presented as such. Encourage them to develop their own opinion, and explain their reasons, after understanding and analysing these perspectives. This process empowers to discern and provide well-reasoned conclusions on issues that arise.
