Social Studies

United States democracy is derived from a set of basic values and
convictions that the Social Studies Department is dedicated to
promoting and teaching. We are committed to providing students
with an education that promotes the informed decision making
essential to a democratic society. Using the social sciences as a
vehicle, students will be prepared to confront the political and
economic issues facing the United States in the 21st Century. Since
students cannot be expected to become independent, intelligent
decision makers without proper training, a major thrust of the August
Martin Social Studies Department is to integrate the teaching of
critical thinking across the curriculum.

PHILOSOPHY

Therefore, our teachers will not only address the basic thinking skills
of knowledge, comprehension, and application, but wherever
possible they will also teach our students how to use the higher order
skills of analysis, synthesis, and evaluation.

The Social Studies Department recognizes that not all children are
the same. They come to us with varying strengths and weaknesses,
talents and abilities, and interests and emotions. It is our goal to help
our youngsters grow to their maximum potential. In order to address
this goal, we have endeavored to provide each student with the
choice and flexibility necessary to satisfy his or her individual needs.
We believe it is vital for every student to develop confidence in his or
her ability to learn to develop the capacity for lifelong learning.
Furthermore, it is our purpose to develop self-discipline and a sense
of responsibility and decency in all our students.

By definition, democracy recognizes the worth and dignity of each
individual. Members of the Social Studies Department understand
the necessity to incorporate multicultural education as an integral
part of the curriculum. This will provide students with the knowledge,
tolerance, respect and compassion toward every human being
whatever his or her origin, present status, religion or natural gifts. It
will also provide students with the skills of settling controversial
questions whether they be personal, national or international and
thereby recognize the principal of the rule of the majority with full
protection of civil rights and security for all.

Assistant Principal Social Studies
Mrs. Janice Henry