Williamsville Central School District

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Social Studies

Overview of Social Studies

Social Studies is intended to promote civic competence through the integrated study of the social sciences and humanities. The primary purpose of Social Studies is to help young people develop the ability to make informed and reasoned decisions for the public good as citizens of a culturally diverse, democratic society in an interdependent world (adapted from the National Council for the Social Studies [NCSS] definition of Social Studies).

Contact:
Karen Greco, Director of Social Studies
716-626-8030

Gr. K-4

Gr. 5-8

Gr. 9-12

K-4 Social Studies introduces students to civics/government, economics, geography, and history. Curriculum progresses from an individual’s place within different levels of communities, addresses links from self and family to school and world communities, and culminates with an in-depth study of New York State and local history.

5-8 Social Studies bridges elementary and middle level content and skills. Grade 5 curriculum is an in-depth study of the Western Hemisphere, with a focus on geography. Grade 6 content focuses on the Eastern Hemisphere—early man through 1450. A two-year study of American history culminates middle level social studies.

 

 

Each high school student is required to successfully complete 4 units of social studies. These 4 units include 1 unit of Global History and Geography I, 1 unit of Global History and Geography II (or AP equivalent), 1 unit of United States History and Government (or AP equivalent), ½ unit of Participation in Government (or AP equivalent), and ½ unit of Economics (or AP equivalent). In addition to required courses, diverse elective offerings allow students to develop their strengths and expand on their interests.