The fourth grade social
studies curriculum introduces the history, geography,
government, and economy of Michigan. Students learn
about people and events from the past that have
influenced the state in which they live. They study the
geography of Michigan and the physical and cultural
characteristics of areas of the state. They also study
the interaction between the people of Michigan and their
natural environments; the movement of people, products,
and ideas across the state; and the distinguishing
features of various regions within Michigan. Students
explore how Michiganians support themselves through the
production, consumption, and distribution of goods and
services. By studying economic ties between Michigan and
other places, students discover how their state is an
interdependent part of both the national and global
economies. The laws and state government of Michigan
are introduced. Students locate, analyze, and present
data pertaining to the state of Michigan. By examining
current issues facing Michigan residents, students
practice making and expressing informed decisions as
citizens. To extend their understanding of Michigan as a
state of the United States, students compare their home
state to another state of the Union. To discover how
other large countries also have political subdivisions
comparable to American states, students study one from
another country (e.g., a Canadian province, Japanese
prefecture, Brazilian state, Swiss canton, etc.) and
compare it to the state of Michigan.
Units of
Study
The Geography of
Michigan
The History of Michigan
Michigan Government
Michigan in the
National and Global Economy
A Current Public Issue
Facing Michigan Citizens
Comparing Michigan to
Another State
Comparing Michigan to a
State from Another Country
