TEACHING FOR CITIZENSHIP WITHIN ELEMENTARY CLASSROOMS

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to learn more about elementary social studies instruction and its role within citizenship education. In particular, this study focused on gaining insight into the nature of social studies instruction, whether implicit or explicit. Data were collected through the use of interviews, classroom observations, and documents found within a second grade classroom. Social studies existed in different forms within this classroom including promoting aspects of community, socialization with an emphasis on behavior, and foundational social studies content. I discuss implications for myself, for elementary educators, and for future educators.