SS+WORDLE

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These are eight simple words, but all of them contain a deep meaning. I chose these words to describe "what is social studies"? to me because they each,in my opinion, play a main role in the foundation of social studies. They each paint a picture in your mind when you say them and I feel they each get over looked on a regular basis. The first word I instantly thought of was __**families**__ because the students learn about this topic in kindergarten. I believe it is vital that our students learn about themselves and their families. They need learn that they are each unique and valued. So many people have a bad relationship with their families or think they are outcasts and I think families belongs in "What is social studies" because it is of the utmost importance that this is taught. They need to know that all families are different and that is okay, it is okay to be different. Ultimately, by the teaching this, I think it will boast their confidence and self esteem.

Along with learning about their families, I think __**culture**__ is a large component of social studies. Our society consists of a variety of cultures and it is necessary for the students to be exposed to that. Teaching culture demonstrates to the students again, being different is okay. Constantly reminding the students that being yourself and your own individual is a positive thing. They are so impressionable and i just want them to know that being themselves is enough, and that they do not have to be someone else for anyone. I believe by teaching this in social studies we teach more than just individuality, but we teach life lessons and maturity. I believe that with social studies everything intertwines, they all go back to each other. So in addition to both families and culture, **__diversity__**, in my opinion, is major in social studies, because, yet again, instills that we are ALL different in some way. More than anything I want my students to feel treasured. So many students have horrible home situations, so while at school I want them to feel so much love. I think that teaching all three of these words are all helpful to reach that goal, as well as, further their knowledge of the world around them.

The next word I chose was __**community**__, which also fits in with the three words mentioned above. I feel that sometimes students are so wrapped up in their own lives that they forget that they are a part of a bigger picture. It is good to teach the students how to become an active member of their community. Students need to know that being in a community is privilege and that they need to take advantage of the fact that their community is also a branch of their family. Being part of a community is wonderful because that gives you a chance to step out of your comfort zone, perform good deeds, and help out. Which leads me to my next word.....__**citizenship**__. I learned that we, as educators, do not put enough emphasis on being a good citizen. I believe this is important because this teaches the students how to be a good citizen, but most importantly, being a good person. Being a person that everyone wants to know, helping out, and being selfless; this is learned by being taught how to be a good citizen. Being a good citizen goes far beyond recycling, lending a hand, or saying yes when a neighbor asks to borrow a cup of sugar; it is about being part of a positive change. when you are a good citizen and have a great attitude about helping then life becomes easier. One makes friends easier and ultimately gets further in life. This is great for the students to know that being enthusiastic and having an uplifting attitude makes all the difference.

The next word I chose to describe what social studies is to me is **__government__**. I did not learn a lot about the government in elementary school, I do not think I learned much about it until my sophomore year of high school. My students need to know that they do make a difference. It is important to vote and your opinion, voice, and ideas matter. I want them to know about the branches of government, what they do, and who is in them. I want them to know that being in a country like America, it is a privilege that we get to vote and get to voice our opinions freely, so we should vote and be an active part of our community and an active citizen.

Another word I think of when I hear social studies is **__history__**. Trust me when I say I understand that learning about history and the past can be incredibly boring, but it is necessary that we learn how we got where we are today. Everything has a consequence and if we do not learn about the past is apt to repeat itself. However, I believe that learning about history is more than learning about names and dates. We need to teach our students the how, where, and why instead of placing the importance on the when. It is baffling when I ask students a simple questions about our history and they do not know what it is. Our students are ignorant of past, and therefore will continue to be ignorant of the present, and future.

My last word for what I think social studies is about is **__present__**. Social studies is happening all around us everyday, my students are part of history now and they need to become aware of this. They need to know that even at their young age they can make a change and become part of a revolution.I want them to know that by them voting, becoming a good citizen, and being active in their community, they can make a difference.

As I mentioned above, all of these words coincide with one another. We need to teach our student what each words entails and we need to do it soon so they will not grow up ignorant of the fact that they are amazing and offer a lot to this world. I do not want my students growing up saying "Man, I wish i would have known this sooner". I desire for my students to learn far beyond the things in the classroom, i want them to learn authentic lessons and they can through learning social studies; that is why social studies is vital to teach.