Over the next 10 posts, I will address each standard for the Social Studies classroom. I am hoping this will help new teachers, and even those with experience, to teach the standards without panic and pressure as the new year begins. One key thing to remember is that we are doing all we have always done in the Social Studies classroom – We are teaching using primary sources, critical thinking skills, and a focus on reading for content knowledge, understanding and application.
The Basics for Teaching the Standards
For the purpose of this series, I will reference the NCSS themes, CCSS standards, and National Geographic Standards for Teaching Social Studies. While the CCSS standards were highly controversial when introduced, they are still the basis for many state standards for teaching our subject area. In addition, they provide an easy framework to follow.
One item is missing in the standards that are very relevant in today’s classroom – Inquiry. However, I will argue that we have always been teaching with inquiry in our Social Studies classrooms. We just never put a name on the vital skill. The following posts will also address this skill, but you can also check out a number of posts specific to adding inquiry into your lessons.
How to Read a Standard
No matter what standards you are required to use in your classroom, most follow the same type of pattern. The numbers typically address the grade level, theme or category (Geography, History, Civics…), and a number or strand.
Standard descriptions may be thorough, or may be very brief. The latter often leaves teachers struggling, but can also provide greater freedom in the classroom. Think positive!
Goals or objectives are also key in standards. These may be the greatest help in planning your lessons. Often, they will tell you exactly what you should see as a result of implementing your lesson.
Strategies for Teaching the Standards
One very important topic that is often left out of state and national standards are the strategies that are effective in teaching them. That’s actually a great thing! Strategies should be changed often. Ironically, it’s the strategy that’s often the most important part of your teacher toolbox. If you do not teach the content and standards with effective strategies, your lessons may fail.
Resources for Teaching the CONTENT
Keep in mind that the standards are really objectives. Most of the time, they do not provide us clear guidelines on content. That’s where your resources help! And resources can also make or break your students’ success! Find resources that allow you freedom to address your standards, hit the content, and vary the strategies. Find those resources here!
Final Note
Don’t let the standards freak you out! They are simply a map to help make sure you hit the important parts. Look at them like you would a daily agenda or your calendar on your phone. They are notes you need to make sure you can check off all of the learning boxes for each student at the end of the year! No stress!
Oh, I almost forgot: You can find the series and other posts on implementing the standards through this link!
Happy Teaching!
