Developing Historical Thinking Skills in Grade 9

Education researchers appreciated the social and historical theory, therefore, they developed it even further to assist learners with conscious development. Particularly the development of concepts which are introduced in schools (Chaiklin & Hedegaard, 2013; Wells, 2004). This is because concept development is equated with the development of consciousness (Smagorinsky, Cook & Johnson, 2003). Given this, any attempt in ensuring that children develop concepts must take into consideration social and historical practices. These practices include social interaction with a more capable other as well as the use of tools (Vygotsky, 1986).