Social Studies
Grade 2 exploration of neighborhoods, map skills, historical figures, and basic economics
Community and Neighborhoods
Types of Communities
Distinguishing between urban, suburban, and rural communities and the features of each. Exploring how geography and resources shape the way people live and work in different communities.
Community Helpers and Services
Identifying people who provide important services in the community, such as firefighters, doctors, teachers, and sanitation workers. Understanding how communities depend on cooperation and shared responsibilities.
Rules and Responsibilities
Discussing why communities have rules and laws and the consequences of not following them. Exploring the roles of community leaders and how citizens can participate in their community.
Maps and Geography
Reading Maps and Map Keys
Using a map key and compass rose to read simple maps of neighborhoods, cities, and countries. Understanding map symbols and how maps represent real-world places from a bird's-eye view.
Landforms and Bodies of Water
Identifying common landforms (mountains, valleys, plains, hills) and bodies of water (rivers, lakes, oceans, bays). Locating major landforms and bodies of water on a simple map.
History and Economics
Historical Figures Who Made a Difference
Learning about individuals who worked to improve their communities or countries, such as civil rights leaders, scientists, and explorers. Understanding how the actions of individuals can bring about lasting change.
Then and Now: How Life Has Changed
Comparing daily life, transportation, communication, and tools in the past with those of today. Using photographs and artifacts to explore how communities have changed over time.
Needs, Wants, and Goods and Services
Distinguishing between needs and wants and between goods and services. Introducing the concept of scarcity and how people make choices about how to use limited resources.