A social studies and arts integrated unit of study: Engagement in contents left behind

Includes bibliographical references (leaves 42-45)Current trends in education, with an emphasis on standardized testing in language arts and mathematics, have decreased the quantity and quality of instruction in areas such as social studies and the a1is. Effectively integrating arts and social studies using student centered practices, primary sources, and inquiry methods can yield more favorable results than traditional teaching styles. Using Gardner's Multiple Intelligences and learning theories from Vygotsky and Piaget, this 3'd grade project integrates social studies and the a1is to recommend alternatives to teachers ' current teaching practices. Fu1ihermore, it offers students opportunities to exercise and discover their strengths and reach higher levels of understanding by socially engaging in social studies and the arts