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The social studies curriculum seeks to help students understand the relationship between peoples and countries by comparing and contrasting their cultures, methods of transportation, homes, natural resources, and geography. In the early grades, these comparisons are made at the family and neighborhood levels. As the students progress through the grades, the comparisons broaden to include the state of Maryland, the United States of America, and finally, the entire world. Map skills form an integral part of the curriculum and students use maps and the globe at every grade level. Students are encouraged to see how they personally affect the world and fit into the scheme of a civilization, whether neighborhood, state, country, or world.
Roots and forms of United States government studies are initiated at the fifth grade. In eighth grade, students sharpen their knowledge of citizenship and critical thinking skills through studies of the Declaration of Independence, Constitution, and Bill of Rights. Through literature, field trip experiences, and primary documents, they learn to better understand the events in American History.
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