In social studies, we aim to develop the nature of the citizen through social recognition. We believe that social recognition and the system of modern society are important topics, and it is essential to examine these matters in relation to the historical background of society. Simultaneously, the validity of the characteristics of society should be explored via critical thought. When holding classes on subjects connected with society, the recognition-formation process, based on critical thinking, should be central to the lesson. We consider that intellectual, practical, and rational decision-making comes to be possible in society owing to social studies. In this research, a strategy for recognizing the importance of social studies was created and used to form the basis of the unit on “Tomioka Silk Mill and Related Industrial Heritage” in the course “Japanese History A.”