Overview of the Social Studies Department

The Portsmouth High Social Studies Department is committed to provide all students with diverse knowledge and skills in order to be prepared for college, career and civic life. Students’ inquiry based, authentic experiences with history, American democracy, and cultures around the world, will provide an invaluable foundation as they become active citizens and compete in a global economy. Our courses place emphasis on proficiency in information literacy. Critical thinkers and problem solvers must be able to efficiently locate, accurately evaluate, effectively use, and clearly communicate information in a variety of formats. In a world whose issues are complex and economies everchanging, we prepare our students to intelligently analyze and act upon complex local and global issues, and the ability to adapt and learn new skills to successfully traverse college and career.

Expectations for Student Learning in Social Studies

• To develop questions, identify problems and plan inquiries

• Apply disciplinary concepts and tools

• Critically think and collaborate

• Evaluate sources and use evidence

• Communicate conclusions and take informed action

Learning Expectations Addressed in Social Studies:

Expectation 1: Access and critically analyze information to answer questions and explore ideas.

Expectation 3: Write proficiently for a variety of purposes.