Social studies in the lower school focuses on an awareness of self, family, community, and one’s place in the world as a global citizen. Students use historical thinking skills such as examining primary sources, establishing historical significance and thinking about continuity and change. They learn to research and assimilate information by using databases, books, and classroom resources. Each trimester has an intentional focus: either study skills, project-based learning, or innovation and exploration, with each grade level rotating the order so that the CAST teachers can participate more efficiently. Community service projects are  woven into each grade level, which helps students make connections to the real world.