Chinese/English Elementary School

The Chinese and English social studies and language arts curricula are interconnected. Social studies content and activities are often related to the content and themes studies in language arts. The Chinese curriculum covers aspects of the English curriculum topics and themes, but also examines Chinese history and culture. Teachers in both languages work in close cooperation to create an integrated curriculum.

In 1st grade, the students focus on the importance of rights and responsibilities. Students learn about how decisions are made with respect to individual responsibility, others, and rules by which all must live. Students learn about the schools and local community, and begin to learn mapping skills as related to the study of their surroundings.

In 2nd grade, the foundations for social studies are laid, with a focus on reading non-fiction and biographies, creating timelines, learning the elements of geography, and examining similarities and differences in world cultures. Projects relating to families and ancestors connect the students' personal experiences to the exploration of the greater world.

In 3rd grade, students investigate early North American history and culture in the U.S, particularly aspects of exploration, development and growth of communities, and revisit the ideas of citizenship, rights, and responsibilities. Geographic skills are further developed through the study of North American geography, topography, and the ways in which the land influences culture.

In 4th grade, students focus on California and the diverse people who have created its history. Students study California's historical eras, including European exploration, mission settlements, the Gold Rush, California's leaders and their contributions, the history of immigration to California (including the most recent immigrants), and California's place/role in the U.S. and in the world. Geographic skills continue to be developed in relation to the study of California.

In 5th grade, students study the founding of the United States and examine the roles of migration in all regions of the U.S. to understand contributions of ethnic, religious, and cultural groups. Students compare and contrast the major leaders, ideas, and events in U.S. history to link past to present. As well continuing to hone geographic skills, the students use their work in geography to compare life in the various regions of the country.