Social Studies Grade Four

Unit 3: Interdependence

Unit Overview for Grades 1-5

Learning at each grade level is organized around four units of study.

Unit 1 Identity Unit 3 Interdependence

Unit 2 Heritage Unit 4 Decision Making

This curriculum uses a spiral model for organizing learning objectives. With this developmental model, concepts are introduced and developed within the context of a theme and at a level appropriate for the students in the classroom. The unit "Interdependence" is developed in the following way:

Unit Summary for Grade Four

Students will explore interdependent relationships within Saskatchewan and between the province and other regions, as well as between/among technology, resources, agriculture, industry, economics, and people.

Students will have the opportunity to access, organize and present information and opinions on topics under study and to participate in simulation activities that support the relevant concepts.

Major Concepts and Learning Objectives

Concepts

Interdependence

needs, wants, technology, resources, industry, agriculture, economy

Knowledge Objectives

Students will know that:

people invent and discover technologies to meet needs and wants. (TL, PSVS)
Saskatchewan has a variety of resources. (C, CCT)
industry and agriculture depend on resources which should be used responsibly. (PSVS, TL)
Saskatchewan produces a variety of agricultural products. (CCT, TL)
both women and men are food producers. (C, PSVS)

Skills/Abilities Objectives

Students will:

access, organize, and present information and opinions. (C, TL, IL)
identify and evaluate technologies and technological changes. (TL, C)
make connections among resources, agriculture, industry, employment, economy, conservation, and meeting needs. (C, CCT, PSVS, TL)

Attitudes/Values Objectives

Students will:

appreciate the changes caused by the introduction of new technologies. (TL, PSVS)
value the province's resources. (PSVS)

Citizen Action Objectives

Students may:

plan and create an invention. (IL, TL)
participate in an economic venture. (N, CCT)
participate in a simulation activity. (C, PSVS)

Suggestions for Integration

Language Arts:: Develop a theme such as "Meeting Needs and Wants in Saskatchewan" or in the Inquiry context.
The sample unit Sharing Our World" included in English Language Arts: A Curriculum Guide for the Elementary Level may be integrated with resources, resource management, and agencies and individuals involved with the care and protection of animals.
Science:: Core Unit: Forms of Energy. Optional Units: Nutrition and Digestion and Plant Diversity might be correlated with agriculture and other issues.
Arts Education:: Drama in context, related art activities. Student skills/abilities may be supported in all subjects.