NCSS X: Civic Ideals and Practices

 

     It is very important for social studies teachers to integrate the study of Civic Ideals and Practices into their teaching. It is vital for students to know as well as engage in civic ideals and practices. It is important for students to be prepared to participate in government, especially when they reach the age of eighteen. Students should that the negative impacts resulting from countries that restrict the right of citizens to engage in civic ideals and practices. It is important for students to know how civic ideals and practices throughout American history have helped promote liberty.

     During the Fall I was able to incorporate Civic Ideals and Practices into a couple of lessons with Michael Smith. I was able to incorporate this theme into my "What is a Republic" lesson (See Evidence 1). In order for students be able to engage in Civic Ideals and Practices it is important for them to know what form of government the country they live in has. Then this theme was also addressed in our "Voter ID Laws: What do you think?" lesson (See Evidence 2). This lesson encourages students to become involved in government and vote no matter whether they are opposed to the law or support it. During the Spring I continued to address Civic Ideals and Practices. Sometimes it was easier to teach some not so civic practices Americans engaged in like defending slavery or forcing Native Americans off their lands. However, I was able to integrate Civic Ideals and Practices into my lessons on the abolitionist movement as well as the women’s suffrage movement (See Evidence 3). Students were able to see major figures in both movements engage in civic ideals and practices to help fight injustices. Some of the civic practices figures in both movements engaged in were freedom of speech, assembly, and the press.

     Civic Ideals and Practices is an essential part of social studies that I will continue to promote in my classroom in the future. I can help students learn about Civic Ideals and Practices through current events, class debates, case studies, and projects. I can also encourage students to engage in civic ideals and practices through becoming involved in government. Students can also engage in civic ideals and practices through becoming involved in any organization that helps others, helps improve society, and helps promote freedom.

 

Evidence