Before you begin, make sure you watch the 4 minute video Social Studies at http://abavtooldev.pearsoncmg.com/-myeducationlab/singleplay.php?-projectID=earlychildhoodeducation&-clipID=EC_05_268.flv
Read the questions before you watch (you can even write them down) and take notes as you watch. Then respond to the following questions:
1. 1. What were some of the activities you observed and how do they connect to social studies? How do they help children to develop their social skills?
2. 2. How did the teacher help build the childs character (confidence, respect, caring, nurturing, honest, etc.)? Why is it necessary to do this?
3. 3. How do behavioral (rewards/punishments) and social cognitive (influence by behavior, environment AND personal factors) theories support social skills? In essence, this question is asking you to explain the difference between behaviorism and social cognitive theory. According to each theory, how do children develop their social skills?
4. 4. What is meant by character building (sometimes called character development) and what are some activities to encourage it? (Remember, character involves being respectful, honest, fair, responsible, etc.).