Approaches to teaching social studies
The different approaches taken to teaching social studies at Canadian private schools
What is the core knowledge approach?
The core knowledge approach emphasizes a broad and structured understanding of history, geography, and culture from an early age. Using story, drama, reading, and discussion, students learn about key people, places, and events that have shaped societies. The goal is to build a deep and connected base of factual and conceptual knowledge. Lessons are often organized sequentially—such as teaching history in chronological order—to help students develop a clear sense of cause and effect as they progress through the grades.
