The elementary frameworks provide the foundational knowledge and skills necessary for young students to become empowered, informed, and socially responsible citizens. Through the study of history, geography, economics, and civics, students learn to interact with, and contribute to the world in which they live. Learning how to evaluate sources of information, craft arguments based on evidence, and take informed action helps students develop their civic identity and voice. Additionally, elementary social studies prepares students to meet the challenge of secondary social studies content and supports literacy development across subject areas.

Using the same inquiry based approach, the revised secondary social studies frameworks offer the opportunity for in-depth study of Grade 8 United States History, American Government, High School United States History, and Modern World History. The grades 6 and 7 frameworks address the same six content standards, but are scheduled for revisions beginning in the 2020-2021 school year.

The revised frameworks in grades PreK – 12 broaden the historical narrative by including marginalized groups and encourage students to learn more about all members of their communities through the inquiry process.

All students must take a United States History, World History, and American Government class.

INSTRUCTION LEVELS: US History, American Government, and World History are offered as follows:

Advanced Placement- This course does require students to spend extra time reading, writing, and preparing for class discussions each day.  It is an introductory college level course and students may earn college credits if they pass the AP test.   Students will be conducting historical investigations and engaging in higher level thinking and reasoning activities during class time.  Students will be required to analyze and synthesize historical documents and complete several Document Based Questions (DBQs) throughout the year in preparation for the AP Exam.  Students must be strong readers and writers due to the extensive reading and writing that is required of the course.

Honors- This level places emphasis on developing students’ higher-level thinking and reasoning skills.  Students will be expected to engage in frequent discussions of the content as well as analysis of primary and secondary source documents.  Teachers focus on developing the students’ historical thinking, writing, and reading skills.  At this level, students should be able to complete assignments independently.  Students should be strong readers and writers due to the reading and writing that is required of the course.

On Level- This level is designed to meet the MSDE’s graduation requirement.  This course places emphasis on developing students’ historical thinking, writing, and reading skills.  There will be a strong focus on analysis of primary and secondary source documents.  Teachers may provide additional supports for students to meet their academic needs.  Teachers will also focus on reading and writing strategies in the content.