Unit description: Students will examine the idea that the United States is founded on the principles of democracy, and these principles are reflected in all types of communities. They will develop foundational understanding that the United States is founded on the democratic principles of equality, fairness, and respect for authority and rules. Students will also develop an understanding of the process of voting and what opportunities adults in the community have for participation; examine symbols of American democracy and how they serve to unite community members; and study how communities have rules and laws that affect how they function and citizens contribute to a community’s government through leadership and service.
Download the complete Grade 2 Social Studies – Civic Ideals and Practices framework to customize for your own planning.
Standards
- Standard 1- U.S. & N.Y. History
- Standard 5- Civics, Citizenship and Gov’t
Essential Questions and Big Ideas
- BI: Civic Ideals and Practices
- What is the government and why is it important?
- How do the government, rules, and laws keep me safe?
- Why is the process of holding elections and voting such an essential action in schools, communities, New York State, and the nation?
- How do democratic principles work in my community and classroom?
- What symbolizes our country?
Prerequisite Skills
Grade 2 “My Community and Other Communities” is organized into five units of study—Individual Development and Cultural Identity; Civic Ideals and Practices; Geography, Humans, and the Environment; Time, Continuity, and Change; and Economic Systems. These units represent five of the unifying themes of social studies, and may be presented in any order.
Download the complete Grade 2 Social Studies – Civic Ideals and Practices framework to customize for your own planning.