The primary purpose of social studies is to help young people develop the ability to make informed and reasoned decisions for the public good as citizens of a culturally diverse, democratic society.
We prepare students to be responsible citizens by stressing the safeguarding of rights, fulfillment of responsibilities, and honoring of the dignity of all people. Through their studies, students develop lifelong learning skills in communication, information technology, teamwork, problem-solving, and decision-making. Our program is designed to give students a strong understanding of the local community around the school, to respect diversity, to recognize the rich cultural history of our island home, and to become engaged citizens.
By 5 and 6 years old, ‘Ohi’a children are beginning to realize that they are a unique person who interacts with other individuals, groups, and cultures, including family, school, community, Hawai’i, the nation, and the world.
Koai’a students begin to understand their relationship to their home community and to wonder about other parts of the world.
Koa students extend their understanding and begin making international connections through a variety of digital platforms and global education projects.
At all levels, students develop and strengthen key skills, including
- finding and using appropriate resources
- reading for information
- note-taking
- documenting sources
- planning and executing projects
- creating a variety of reports and presentations to showcase what they have learned
- map skills and geography
Experiential learning is a powerful instructional tool that makes a real impact on student learning. Throughout the year, students participate in a variety of Learning Trips to enhance their education. They might travel to Anna Ranch in Waimea to learn about the history of our town or visit important members of our community, such as police and firefighters. Every other year, Koa students overnight to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and learn from master navigators about the history of voyaging.
Social Studies Unit Rotation
YEAR 1
‘Ohi’a K/1st Multiage
- What is history?
- State of Hawai’i
- United States
- Continents & Oceans
- National holidays
Koai’a 2nd/3rd Multiage
- Family history
- Early Hawaiian life
- Migration & transportation
- Regions of the U.S.; focus on Native Americans
Koa 4th/5th Multiage
- Pacific geography
- Early Hawaiian history & migration
- Colonial America & Revolutionary War
- US states, regions, & capitals
YEAR 2
‘Ohi’a K/1st Multiage
- Family
- Our community
- Citizenship
- National holidays
Koai’a 2nd/3rd Multiage
- Waimea Community
- Physical geography of the U.S.
- Natural resources
- Important people in U.S. history
Koa 4th/5th Multiage
- U.S. Government
- Elections
- Modern Hawaiian history
- World geography & cultures
2024/2025 is Year 2
