Social Sciences and Humanities
(Grades 3 to 12)
Welcome to the Social Sciences and Humanities category of the firSTep Project Competition! This category is open to all students from Grade 3 to Grade 12, and it aligns seamlessly with the overall mission of firSTep. Below, you will find comprehensive information and guidelines to help you make the most of your participation in this engaging competition.
- Purpose and Benefits:
- The Social Sciences and Humanities category aims to cultivate young scholars, critical thinkers, and global citizens. It encourages students to explore the complexities of human society and culture, fostering skills such as research, communication, presentation, time management, collaboration, and creativity. By participating in this category, students will benefit from a unique learning experience that goes beyond the classroom, gaining a deeper understanding of societal challenges and the ability to propose meaningful solutions.
- Essential Elements of a Successful Project-Based Learning (PBL):
- To succeed in this category, remember the following key elements:
1. Research and Inquiry: Start with questions or topics that genuinely interest you within the realm of social sciences and humanities.
2. Thorough Research: Conduct extensive research to understand the subject and gather relevant information.
3. Driving Question: Choose a compelling and relevant driving question that forms the foundation of your project. Identify a societal challenge or issue you are passionate about and seek to understand it better.
4. Solution Proposal: Develop creative and practical solutions to address the identified challenge.
5. Alignment with UN SDGs: Ensure that your project contributes to at least one of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These goals cover a wide range of issues related to equality, justice, education, and more.
6. Presentation Skills: Prepare to share your project through a short video and a public presentation at your local school round. This is an excellent opportunity to refine your communication skills and effectively convey your work to others. - Sample Areas of Work:
- Your project can cover a broad spectrum of subjects, including but not limited to:
- Gender equality
- Cultural preservation and heritage
- Human rights and social justice
- Mental health awareness
- Education access and quality
- Community development
- Historical research and analysis
- Civic engagement and participation
- Sustainable practices in society - Alignment with UN SDGs:
- Your project should demonstrate a clear connection to at least one of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. This alignment ensures that your work contributes to global efforts to make the world a better place. It's essential to understand these goals and explore ways to integrate them into your project.
- Sample Driving Questions:
- How can we create a community garden that also serves as an outdoor classroom? (Suggested Grade Level: 4-6)
SDGs: 4 (Quality Education), 2 (Zero Hunger), 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities)
How can we create an awareness campaign around mental health for our school community? (Grade Level: 9-10)
SDGs: 3 (Good Health and Well-being)
What would be the economic and environmental impact of the public transportation system in our town? (Grade Level: 10-12)
SDGs: 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities),13 (Climate Action) - Short Video and Public Presentation:
- Participation in the local school round is a significant aspect of the competition. You will need to create a short video showcasing your project and make a public presentation to your school community. These experiences not only help you refine your project presentation skills but also provide an opportunity to inspire others with your work. Be prepared to share your findings, solutions, and your passion for addressing societal challenges.
We hope this guideline helps you and your parents or project supervisors understand the Social Sciences and Humanities category of the firSTep Project Competition. Embrace this opportunity, let your curiosity guide you, and take the first step toward becoming a young social scientist or humanitarian who can make a meaningful impact on the world. Good luck, and let your passion for societal change shine!