Integrating Social Studies and the Arts 

The integrated study of content areas allows for the engagement of students through the purposeful application of content knowledge. Social studies is a content area that can be effectively integrated with multiple aspects of the arts, including visual arts, drama, and performance. Teachers can design meaningful learning experiences that are cross-curricular and guide students in the development of interdisciplinary skills, within content area contexts, establishing a connection that encourages exploration, discovery, and expression.

Part 1: Social Studies and Arts Learning Activity

Research and examine a variety of teaching and instructional strategies for activities that engage students in complex thinking and meaningful tasks and lessons that integrate social studies and the arts.

For this assignment, complete the “Social Studies and Arts Learning Activity” template to plan for instruction by developing a learning experience that integrates social studies and the arts and uses various forms of communication with interdisciplinary connections of real-world knowledge and skills.

Select a grade level, K-8, and a state standard in social studies and one in the arts that can be met in your learning activity.

The “Social Studies and Arts Learning Activity” template includes:

• Social studies standard, arts standard, and grade level
• Learning objectives
• 100-150 word description of the learning activity that integrates social studies and the arts
• Instructional strategy

Part 2: Reflection

In 250-500 words, summarize and reflect on integrating social studies and the arts into one lesson. How does your learning activity and instructional strategy foster the development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills in the content area of social studies and various forms of the arts? Explain how you will use your findings in your future professional practice.

Support your findings with at least two scholarly resources.

Prepare this assignment according to the guidelines found in the APA Style Guide, located in the Student Success Center. An abstract is not required.

This assignment uses a rubric. Review the rubric prior to beginning the assignment to become familiar with the expectations for successful completion.

You are required to submit this assignment to LopesWrite. Refer to the LopesWrite Technical Support articles for assistance.

Instructional Strategies Recommended in Social Studies Methods Textbooks: A Historical Perspective

Read “Instructional Strategies Recommended in Social Studies Methods Textbooks: A Historical Perspective,” by Wojcik, Heitzmann, Kilbride, and Hartwell, from Social Studies (2013).

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