Social Sciences Grade 5

Grade 5 Social Sciences provides learners with a deeper understanding of South African society, history, and geography while developing critical thinking skills and global awareness.

History Component

The First People of South Africa

• Hunter-gatherer societies (San people)
• Herder communities (Khoi people)
• Archaeological evidence and rock art
• Traditional ways of life and cultural practices

Early Farming Communities

• Bantu-speaking peoples and migration
• Iron Age settlements and technology
• Agricultural practices and livestock
• Trade networks and cultural exchange

Colonial Period

• European exploration and settlement
• Dutch East India Company at the Cape
• Impact on indigenous communities
• Slavery and its consequences

Conflicts and Resistance

• Frontier wars and land disputes
• Great Trek and Voortrekkers
• Anglo-Zulu War and other conflicts
• Resistance movements and leaders

Geography Component

Physical Geography of South Africa

• Landforms and topography
• Climate zones and weather patterns
• Rivers, mountains, and coastal features
• Natural vegetation and biomes

Human Geography

• Population distribution and density
• Urban and rural settlements
• Economic activities and industries
• Transportation and communication networks

Environmental Issues

• Water scarcity and conservation
• Pollution and waste management
• Climate change impacts
• Sustainable development practices

Map Work Skills

• Reading topographical maps
• Understanding scale and symbols
• Using grid references and coordinates
• Interpreting aerial photographs and satellite images

Key Skills Development

Research and Inquiry

• Formulating research questions
• Gathering information from multiple sources
• Evaluating reliability of sources
• Drawing evidence-based conclusions

Critical Thinking

• Analyzing cause and effect relationships
• Comparing different perspectives
• Making informed judgments
• Identifying bias and propaganda

Communication Skills

• Presenting research findings
• Creating maps, charts, and timelines
• Participating in structured debates
• Writing analytical reports

Assessment Strategies

Formative Assessment

• Class discussions and questioning
• Map work exercises
• Research progress checks
• Peer feedback sessions

Summative Assessment

• Research projects and presentations
• Written tests and examinations
• Map work assessments
• Portfolio compilations

Integration and Connections

Cross-curricular Links

• Languages: Reading historical texts and writing reports
• Natural Sciences: Environmental studies and climate
• Mathematics: Data interpretation and graph reading
• Life Skills: Cultural awareness and citizenship

Real-world Applications

• Local heritage site visits
• Community history projects
• Environmental monitoring activities
• Cultural celebration participation