State Curriculum - Social Studies

 
Grade 3
Standard 1.0 Political Science: Students will understand the historical development and current status of the democratic principles and the development of skills and attitudes necessary to become responsible citizens.
A. The Foundations and Function of Government
1. Explain the role of individuals and groups in creating rules and laws to maintain order, protect citizens, and provide services
a. Identify local government leaders, such as the mayor, county council members or commissioners, and county executive and explain their role in protecting citizens and maintaining order
b. Explain the consequences of violating rules and laws
c. Describe the selection process and duties of local officials who make, apply, and enforce laws through government
2. Explain how certain practices are connected with the democratic principles (skills, attitudes, and dispositions) of being a citizen
a. Identify and explain democratic principles, such as individual rights and responsibilities, patriotism, common good, justice and equality
b. Describe practices such as voting, following rules, volunteering, and recognizing national holidays associated with democratic principles
B. Individual and Group Participation in the Political System
1. Explain how people and events have contributed to the American political system
a. Describe the contributions of local government leaders such as county executives, county council, mayor and city council
b. Describe the contributions of people who contributed to the common good of society
2. Analyze the role of individual and group participation in creating a supportive community
a. Explain the decision making process used to accomplish a community goal or solve a community problem
b. Explain the roles and responsibilities of effective citizens in a political process
c. Describe the actions of people who have made a positive difference in their community, such as community and civic leaders, and organizations
C. Protecting Rights and Maintaining Order
1. Explain the rights and responsibilities of being a member of the school and the community
a. Describe the responsibilities of being an effective citizen, such as cleaning up your neighborhood, being informed, obeying rules and laws, participating in class decisions, and volunteering
 

 

MSDE has developed a toolkit for these standards which can be found online at: http://mdk12.org/instruction/curriculum/social_studies/vsc_toolkit.html.

 

Date: 6/20/2006