Introduction

Social studies is the systematic study of an integrated body of content drawn from the social sciences and the humanities. It enables students to develop their knowledge and understandings of the diverse and dynamic nature of society and of how interactions occur among cultures, societies, and environments. Students develop and apply skills as they investigate society, explore issues, make decisions, and work cooperatively with others. The understandings and skills they develop enable them to participate in society as informed, confident, and responsible citizens.

The purpose of Social Studies in the New Zealand Curriculum is to state what students should learn and achieve within the essential learning area of social sciences. This curriculum statement outlines learning in the social sciences for all students in years 1 to 10. It also provides the basis for courses in years 11 to 13 in schools where social studies is an option in the senior secondary school curriculum along with such subjects as geography, history, and economics.

In New Zealand schools, social studies programmes emphasise learning about New Zealand peoples, cultures, and groups in various time and place settings. Such learning includes the development of understandings of the Treaty of Waitangi, of New Zealand's bicultural heritage, and of the multicultural nature of our society.

Social Studies in the New Zealand Curriculum establishes achievement objectives for five strands: Social Organisation; Culture and Heritage; Place and Environment; Time, Continuity, and Change; and Resources and Economic Activities. Within these strands, the curriculum sets out a clear and structured progression of achievement objectives that span all levels of schooling.

Achievement objectives are also established for three social studies processes - Inquiry, Values Exploration, and Social Decision Making. These processes incorporate the essential skills of The New Zealand Curriculum Framework.