Interesting Facts about Social Studies

Social Studies teachers often teach in isolation from the other content areas, but cross-curricular content helps students see the connection between class work and their everyday lives. Science and Social Studies content often overlaps; for instance, when addressing standards around human impact on the environment or the impact of weather patterns and geological events on people. How do governments and people prepare for these events? How does policy affect our planet? How can drought lead to conflict? The possibilities are endless.

If you’re looking to connect social studies and science content, check out these useful resources:

Students can take virtual tours of notable places thanks to the information and images posted on the National Park Service’s website. Students can read about landmarks and study the geography of different regions of the United States. It’s a great resource for combining a study of different landforms in science class to a deep dive into the history of a place in social studies class.

Channel One News’ coverage of current events often demonstrates connections between science and social studies. Discussion questions, writing prompts and assessments draw students to analyze cause and effect relationships or judge the merits of proposed solutions to problems. Teachers and students can use the keyword search function at the top of each page to search for content related to science, health or geography topics, and much more.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has a website full of information for researchers. Students searching for topics to study on different spaces and places can find lots of interesting facts and details. The information on this site connects to both social studies and science instruction. NOAA’s website has pages dedicated to coastlines, fisheries, satellites and more.

The iNaturalist website and app for mobile devices is a great way to connect science and social studies instruction. Students can record observations in nature and keep track in a digital field notebook. As students explore a community garden, historical site or landmark, they can also keep track of the animals and plant life they see during their exploration.

The US Geological Survey has a terrific website that gives students access to maps and updated information on a variety of topics. The education section of their website includes links to online lectures and animations. Young people can also access featured topics and an area dedicated to resources for middle and high school students.

Share some of the ways that you have connected social studies and science instruction in your classroom!

Monica Burns is an EdTech & Curriculum Consultant and Apple Distinguished Educator. Visit her site ClassTechTips.com