Module 2 Overview

Overview and Goals

New state social studies Links to an external site. and literacy standards (CCSS) Links to an external site. and the recent release of the College, Career, and Civic Life (C3) Framework Links to an external site. provide teachers with guidance and an opportunity to reinvent traditional social studies classes.  By utilizing the disciplinary tools of historians, geographers, economists, and political scientists, social studies teachers are teaching students to research, analyze, critically thinking about information from multiple sources, so that they can draw well-founded conclusions and take informed action.  Ultimately, the infusion of literacy skills and the inquiry-based approach to social studies will provide students with the tools they need for the vocation of citizen and reestablish the important and prominent role of civic education in our nation’s schools.  

After completing this module, you will be able to:

• Explain how the Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts can impact the instructional practices and structure of social studies lessons.
• Determine how to best use state social studies standards, the CCSS for English Language Arts, and the C3 Framework to craft meaningful learning targets for your students.
• Explain how the College, Career, and Civic Life(C3) Framework challenges social studies teachers to regularly utilize disciplinary skills with an inquiry-based model. 
• Determine how much guidance students need to successfully complete inquiry-based lessons.