This presentation is an introduction to social studies education.

1. Introduction to Social Studies
Exploring Our World and Ourselves
Arvin Cruz

2. What is Social Studies?
Definition
The integrated study of the social sciences and
humanities to promote civic competence.
It combines disciplines like history, economics, and
civics with the arts.
It draws upon fields such as anthropology, geography,
law, and sociology.
Purpose
T
o promote civic competence and understanding of
the world.
Helps young people make informed decisions for the
public good.
Develops active participants in a diverse, democratic,
and interdependent world.

3. Key Disciplines of Social Studies
History Geography Civics/Government
Understanding the past to interpret
the present.
Studying Earth's features and human
interaction.
Learning about rights, responsibilities,
and governance.
Focuses on past events, timelines,
and the use of primary and
Examines the spatial distribution of
resources, populations, and cultures,
and the critical relationship between
human beings and their
Prepares for informed participation
in civic life by understanding
secondary sources to reconstruct
and interpret history, helping us
understand patterns of change.
political systems, constitutional
principles, and the rights of citizens.
environment.
Economics Sociology Anthropology
Exploring how societies manage
resources.
Analyzing human behavior and social
structures.
Investigating human cultures and
development.
Studies how individuals, firms, and
governments allocate scarce
resources to satisfy unlimited wants,
and how markets function to
Investigates human social behavior,
social structures, and societal
change, including the forces that
shape our social institutions and
Studies human cultures, past and
present, including their origins,
development, and diversity, and the
imprints of human activities on the

4. Why Study Social Studies?
Develops critical thinking and
problem-solving skills.
Promotes understanding and
appreciation of diverse cultures.
Students learn to evaluate decisions and Exposes students to various cultures,
fostering appreciation for differences.
Analysis Exposure
connect influences to circumstances.
Encourages questioning, evaluating, and Enables meaningful future interactions
Inquiry Interaction
forming informed opinions on social issues. with people from all backgrounds.
Fosters informed and responsible
citizenship.
Helps make sense of current events
and global issues.
Prepares students for active civic life
and understanding political systems.
Provides real-world understanding of
global places, cultures, and events.
Participation Context
Instills justice, equality, and respect, Equips students to analyze
Values Comprehension

5. Social Studies in Everyday Life
Understanding News Informed Choices
News Literacy Economic Awareness
Social studies equips you to evaluate news
sources, understand political systems, and
discern facts from opinions in public
debates.
Understanding economics helps you make
sound financial decisions and recognize
the impact of your consumption habits on
local and global economies.
Community & Civic
Life
Cultural Heritage
Cultural Appreciation
Civic Engagement

6. Conclusion and Q&A
Recap of Key Concepts
Integrated Study: Social studies combines social sciences and
humanities like history, geography, and civics to provide a holistic view of
human society.
Civic Competence: Its core purpose is to cultivate informed,
responsible citizens who can participate effectively in a democratic
society.
Importance of Lifelong Learning
Dynamic World: The constant evolution of global issues and societies
requires us to continuously update our understanding and perspectives.
Active Citizenship: Lifelong engagement with social studies fosters
critical thinking and ensures we remain adaptable and active participants
in our communities.
Questions & Discussion Contact