Social Studies

Philosophy

Through geography and history, students explore the diversity of their school, community, city, country, and world, developing an understanding of the complexity of the environment in which they live. Discussions and activities are designed to foster a capacity for thoughtful and intelligent communication. The curriculum engages boys in challenging discussions and activities designed to foster a capacity for responsible leadership and independent thinking, and is structured to emphasize concern and respect for each individual. While exploring the cultural diversity of the school and the world, students also learn to appreciate and protect our human and natural resources, and to interpret a variety of maps. Community service activities, undertaken as appropriate, encourage students to be responsible and caring citizens.

Pre-Primary

To help boys be independent, self-reliant, and sensitive to the needs of others, we begin the year by exploring the Browning community and the ways in which individuals function as part of that community. This exploration of the individual, called “All About You,” is then expanded to include the world around us by studying the many cultures found in the student population and by exploring the cultures of people from other parts of the world. Family traditions, history, art, and literature from countries around the globe are discussed. Guest speakers, walking tours, and field trips help the boys form an understanding of their position in our community and a respect for communities other than their own. Following the calendar, we discuss historical events and famous people who have helped shape the world.

Grade One

Students begin an in-depth exploration of their environment by studying themselves and their families. Throughout their investigations, boys are exposed to the idea of accepting differences in themselves and others. They practice solving their own disputes using conflict resolution and compromise as they learn to get along in a group setting. A unit on “The Family” explores the many roles people play within a family. Another unit on “The Neighborhood” explores the idea of community and recognizes the usefulness and importance of people with whom the students may come into contact every day. These activities become an important part of the overall understanding of the many cultural differences students will experience throughout their lives. In conjunction with these studies, geography and beginning map skills are introduced. Discussions of major holidays, historical figures, heroes, and current events, supported by field trips, invite the boys to become responsible citizens of the world.

Grade Two

Students study the geographical features of the earth. They study explorers who paved the way for the settlement of the New World and, in particular, New York City. The settlement, government, purchase, and development of New York City are studied. Landmarks of modern New York are recognized and discussed. Maps, time lines, literature, music, art, and field trips to places of interest, e.g. to The Mount Vernon Hotel, Ellis Island, the Staten Island ferry, and museums are integrated into the studies. The boys also study biographies of Peter Stuyvesant, Giovanni de Verrazano , Henry Hudson, and Peter Minuit. Language Arts is also integrated into this subject by focusing on many books about New York City. The boys write two non-fiction reports during the year.

Grade Three

Students study the geography and heritage of the United States. They are encouraged to participate in large and small group activities which will help them discover the value of teamwork and cooperation. Students continue to learn to read and use maps. Field trips, art, music, and literature give students an appreciation of the diversity of cultures and traditions in different regions of the United States. Students also learn about each state and its capital. An ongoing chronological study of famous Americans is conducted throughout the school year, emphasizing various aspects of American life throughout history. This unit is integrated with other academic studies, including geography and creative writing. At the end of the year, students complete a detailed “State Report,” for which each student studies one of the nation’s states in detail, using at least three forms of research.

Grade Four

At this level, world geographical regions are studied. Exploring the influence of various climates and the rise of different cultures provides a context for studying the history of various nations throughout the world. Discoveries are then related to the United States and its people. The New York Times and Time For Kids are used in the classroom for current events discussions. Field trips and literature reinforce the students' global awareness. Map study continues, and geographical vocabulary is broadened. Additionally, the boys study myths and legends of Greece, Rome, and Egypt, as well as those of the Vikings.