The goal of a good social studies education -- active citizenship -- does not emerge from students by being told a good story. "Doing" social studies, whether in history, geography, economics, or other related courses, is about learning and using the skills of these diverse disciplines. These skills include conducting good research, validating claims with evidence, acting in collaboration to solve community problems, using geographic tools to navigate the spatial world, communicating effectively, and many others. Honing these skills form the core proficiency of effective, active citizenship in a democracy. The expectation of teachers to produce active citizens can be fulfilled when students, learn, practice, and use these skills within and outside the classroom. Skill-focused social studies classrooms empower students to seek their own answers, form their own arguments, persuade others through evidence, and act to implement solutions. Strengthening American democracy starts in the skill-based social studies classrooms of today by equipping students with the power that allow them to engage the democratic process. The Texas Social Studies Supervisors Association has adopted the theme of "Activate Citizenship!" to showcase the importance of building the social studies skills set. Research shows that by building these skills student improve in literacy, writing, and communicating. Conference keynoters and presentations will enlighten members on the importance of these skills demonstrating how "doing" social studies acts to improve student achievement beyond the social studies classroom.
Visit our Conference tab for registration and sponsorship information.
We will be electing new officers at this conference. If you are interested in being a TSSSA officer, please fill out the officer interest form before the February conference.
Is there a school or teacher doing amazing things in the Social Studies classroom? We want to hear all about it! Click below to be featured in our Social Studies Spotlight section.
