The social studies theory and methods course begins with an overview of the varied and, at times, competing goals and visions of the profession. Students examine these goals and their underlying rationales, and then develop their own philosophy of social studies teaching and learning. Students also examine state and national scope and sequence frameworks for the social studies, as well as the language arts Common Core standards. A variety of classroom strategies and methods are explored during the remainder of the course, including unit design, leading class discussions, how to approach controversial issues, teaching concepts and generalizations, increasing student engagement and empathy with the past, incorporating technology and the arts, management and discipline, and formats for assessment and grading.

This course is designed to increase pre-service teachers' pedagogical content knowledge and enthusiasm with respect to teaching science at the elementary level. Throughout this course, students will familiarize themselves with reform-based approaches to elementary science instruction through inquiry, readings, and class discussions. Science will be explored not only as an important element of elementary education, but also as a means by which to support a diverse class of elementary students in literacy and mathematics learning.

Social Studies Methods explores practical teaching models, techniques of implementation, and relationships to curricula in elementary classroom instruction. The New Hampshire Social Studies Frameworks and Common Core Curriculum Standards for instruction are identified and implemented in creating lesson plans for a mini unit.

Methods in reading and writing instruction; current procedures and materials; diagnostic techniques. Course satisfies reading/language arts requirement for prospective elementary teachers in the five-year teacher education program. Special fee.