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Social Studies Curriculum Social Studies - 2nd Grade (2024)
Lesson Plans

Strand 3: Civics

Students are introduced to the concept of government. Students learn about the rights and responsibilities of citizenship, explain how people must work together to resolve conflict, and understand the importance of respecting differences.

Compelling Questions:

  • What are the benefits and responsibilities of being good citizens?
  • How do classrooms, communities, and families work together to resolve conflicts they face?
  • What are the traits of effective leaders?
  • How do people decide who governs us? Why is it important for citizens to learn about candidates and to vote?


Standard 2.3.1

Define the essential qualities of good community members (for example, honesty, integrity, morality, civility, duty, honor, service, respect, and obedience to law).
  • 2nd Grade - Act. 16: Who Do You Want for Your Friend?
    Students will select four characters from familiar books and determine if they have healthy or unhealthy characteristics.
  • American Founders and Constitution Month Constitutional Fitness
    This is an optional program for use by Utah LEAs, schools, and teachers to observe Founders Month and Consitution Day. It aligns with and supports mastery of many Utah Core Social Studies Standards in grade K-5. Standards alignment is provided, along with resources for possible use.
  • Choices Have Consequences
    Students will learn how to handle grievances without getting angry or using violence.
  • Community Culture Trunk
    Students will pack their own "culture trunk" as they learn more about the cultural contributions found in their community.
  • Joshua Disobeys!
    This lesson helps students see that rules exist to keep themselves and others safe.
  • My Kind of Friend
    This lesson explores what qualities make a good friend. This is a way to help students become aware of positive and inappropriate behaviors.
  • Personal Patriots
    Students will review the Pledge of Allegiance and symbols of America.


UEN logo http://www.uen.org - in partnership with Utah State Board of Education (USBE) and Utah System of Higher Education (USHE).  Send questions or comments to USBE Specialist - Robert  Austin and see the Social Studies website. For general questions about Utah's Core Standards contact the Director - Jennifer  Throndsen.

These materials have been produced by and for the teachers of the State of Utah. Copies of these materials may be freely reproduced for teacher and classroom use. When distributing these materials, credit should be given to Utah State Board of Education. These materials may not be published, in whole or part, or in any other format, without the written permission of the Utah State Board of Education, 250 East 500 South, PO Box 144200, Salt Lake City, Utah 84114-4200.