Elementary Social Studies Teachers Take Action

Nine teachers from grades K-5 spent the summer months revising and editing current social studies curriculum units to support the inclusion of diverse perspectives across race, religion, culture, gender identities, disability, and personal experience.

New curriculum materials created by Melrose Educators support students to engage in learning opportunities where they can see themselves reflected in the curriculum as well as opportunities to view the diversity of our city. Units include Take Action projects that support students to develop civic skills needed to be engaged citizens in their communities.

In Kindergarten, through a series of lessons titled “How have symbols changed over time?” students are asked to examine symbols in our community.

In first grade, through a series of lessons titled “What makes a good leader?” students explore the different qualities that leaders embody. The Take Action project guides students to brainstorm questions they would like to ask a leader in the community, choose their top three questions, and then conduct an interview with the leader.

In second grade, students will look at why people migrate, settle in particular places, adapt, and keep cultural traditions alive. In one unit, students Take Action by writing to a federal elected representative to share what they’ve learned about immigration. They make an argument for whether or not the United States should be called, A Nation of Immigrants.

In third grade, through lessons on Melrose, students learn how others in our own city contribute to our community. Students learn about one community leader and Take Action by writing a thank you letter to the leader.

In fourth grade, students research primary and secondary sources to identify how different cultural groups have shaped regions of the United States. In one unit, students Take Action by investigating and analyzing stereotyping. They then brainstorm and present ways to diminish stereotyping in our schools and communities.

In fifth grade, students study the Constitution and Bill of Rights as a primary source to answer the question, “Did the Constitution establish an inclusive and just government?” Students Take Action by creating a mural that communicates inclusion.

The Melrose Education Foundation provided this grant and many more like it thanks to generous donations from local individuals and businesses. Donations are put to work immediately, providing funds directly to teachers to bring innovative learning opportunities to their students. The Melrose Education Foundation is proud to support Melrose educators.