study of the changing objectives of the social studies in Saskatchewan and certain related problems of instruction

The social studies, in some form, has had a significant part in the curricula of our schools almost from the beginning of public education. Today, the social studies is conceived as having certain primary functions in relation to the total school program. The social studies affords social experiences, both direct and vicarious, for children. Through the acquisition of these social experiences it is hoped that the participant will learn skills, techniques, and procedures that can be applied to subsequent situations. The study skills of reading and writing are important outcomes of social studies instruction but they should be the foundations for the more valuable skills necessary for carrying on human relations.