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2 days ago

Los Altos School District

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History - Social Science

History-Social Science
 

Social studies instruction empowers students to make sense of the world and their place in it. Grounded in the California History–Social Science Framework and the C3 Framework, our approach builds historical thinking, civic responsibility, and cultural awareness through inquiry, relevance, and purposeful engagement. Students explore the past and present to better understand their communities, the world, and themselves.

 

Becoming Social Scientists
Social studies learning in LASD is driven by curiosity. Students investigate compelling questions about history, geography, economics, and government. Teachers design instruction that encourages students to examine evidence, analyze multiple perspectives, and construct informed conclusions. Through inquiry, students learn not just what happened, but why it matters.

 

Civic Learning and Engagement
We prepare students to actively and thoughtfully participate in civic life. From the earliest grades, students learn to ask questions, consider diverse viewpoints, engage in respectful dialogue, and take informed action. Our classrooms are spaces where students practice the habits of democratic participation, collaboration, and responsible decision-making.

 

Cultural Literacy and Historical Understanding
Students study the richness and complexity of human experiences across time and cultures. They examine how identity, systems, power, and movements have shaped society—and continue to do so. Teachers guide students in developing empathy and critical thinking by centering diverse narratives and building connections across perspectives.

 

Relevance and Real-World Connections
Social studies comes alive when students see its relevance to their own lives. Instruction connects deeply with students’ questions about fairness, leadership, community, and change. By exploring real-world issues and current events, students build the knowledge and skills to become thoughtful, informed, and engaged members of their communities.


 

Development Across the Grades

Social Studies

PK - 2nd Grade

Children begin developing an understanding of themselves and their place in the world. Through stories, role play, and exploration, they learn about family, school, community, and the basic principles of fairness, rules, and responsibility. They begin to recognize historical time and sequence, understand geographic locations through maps and globes, and learn about cultural traditions and holidays. At this stage, social studies nurtures curiosity, empathy, and a sense of belonging in a shared community.

3rd - 5th Grades

Students expand their understanding of geography, history, government, and economics through the study of local, state, national, and world contexts. They begin to explore Indigenous histories, early settlements, and the founding of the United States, while also learning about diverse cultures and global connections. Students are introduced to primary sources and learn to ask questions, gather evidence, and explain their thinking. These years deepen students’ understanding of how people, events, and ideas shape society over time.

6th - 8th Grades

Students study ancient civilizations, world history, and U.S. history through the lenses of political, social, economic, and cultural systems. They engage in deeper historical inquiry by analyzing multiple perspectives, evaluating sources, and constructing arguments based on evidence. Students explore how institutions, movements, and individuals have influenced change, and they connect historical learning to contemporary issues. Middle school social studies helps students understand their civic responsibilities and prepares them to participate thoughtfully in a democratic society.

Helpful Resources

California History-Social Science Framework

History-Social Science Standards