From the Desk of Jonah Berry
Social Studies Department Chair

Social Studies are the integrated study of the social sciences to prepare young people to become responsible citizens.

The purpose of social studies is to develop social understanding and civic efficacy (the readiness and willingness to assume citizenship responsibilities and to make informed and reasoned decisions for the public good as citizens of a democratic society).

The teachers at Deer Park Middle Magnet School foster this sensitivity through the use of curriculum guides developed by the Baltimore County Office of Social Studies. The Social Studies Curriculum at each grade level is designed to help students meet the educational objective identified in the Baltimore County Public Schools’ Essential Curriculum. The Essential Curriculum is aligned with the Maryland Voluntary State Curriculum and Core Learning goals to ensure a systematic program for all students.

The Social Studies Standard and Gifted and Talented Curriculum Guides for grade eight were revised during the summer of 2006 and will be implemented fully in 2007-2008 school year. Appropriate teaching strategies include:

• Developing critical and creative thinking
• Using technology as a teaching and learning tool
• Implementing education which is multicultural
• Differentiating instructional content, process, products and the learning environment to meet the learning needs of all students
• Application of geographic concepts
• Application of economic concepts
• Decision making
• Problem solving
• Analysis of current events
• Performances and presentations
• Portfolios
• Journals
• Independent research

Each grade level provides students with an opportunity to examine historical events in order to gain an appreciation for varied cultures and how each has impacted the United States. In grade six, the curriculum focuses on the cultures found in Latin America and Asia. In grade seven, the curriculum continues the worldwide focus by examining Africa, Europe and Eurasia. Finally, grade eight examines the United States from Pre-history to Reconstruction.