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Gov't Class Presidential Roles Dinner Party

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Middle School Video showing QFT in action

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The Question Formulation Technique (QFT) for Summative Assessment

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Article to provide additional insight into how the QFT works in a classroom setting.

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EBSCO Information Services, Inc. | www.ebsco.com

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Ashley Melville, Professional Learning Specialist for Cobb County School District in Marietta, GA, and Andrew P. Minigan, Right Question Institute's Director of Strategy, Education Program, discuss how students can use the Question Formulation Technique.

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Using the Question Formulation Technique to Guide Primary Source Learning | EBSCOpost

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Ashley Melville, Professional Learning Specialist for Cobb County School District in Marietta, GA, and Andrew P. Minigan, Right Question Institute's Director of Strategy, Education Program, discuss how students can use the Question Formulation Technique.

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Fantastic Website will resources you can use in any classroom environment.

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The Content, Literacy, Inquiry, and Citizenship (CLIC) Project

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Bracero Program Civic Education LGBT History Environmental Literacy and HSS Filipino American Contributions to the Farm Labor Movement Armenian Genocide American Indian Genocide Cambodian Genocide Rwandan Genocide Challenging Injustice

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Terrific resources -- check it out!

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History Lessons | Stanford History Education Group

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This curriculum teaches students how to investigate historical questions by employing reading strategies such as sourcing, contextualizing, corroborating, and close reading. Instead of memorizing historical facts, students evaluate the trustworthiness of multiple perspectives on historical issues and learn to make historical claims backed by documentary evidence.

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Great templates to use and adjust as needed. Choice Boards, Digital Interactive Notebooks and more!

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Free Choice Boards templates for Google Slides or PowerPoint - SlidesMania

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Editable Digital Choice Boards for Google Drive or PowerPoint. Choice boards are a great way to allow student choice during classroom activities and you can use them for any subject.

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Google Docs version... PPT Available via Slidesmania

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Wonderful lesson by Susan Myers making history relevant to students today.

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New York Times article about why lists work... for use with Listicles in classes

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" 6 TITANIC SURVIVORS WHO SHOULD HAVE DIED." " THESE 9 NAZI ATROCITIES WILL MAKE YOU LOSE FAITH IN HUMANITY." " 5 INSANE PLANS FOR FEEDING WEST BERLIN YOU WON'T BELIEVE ARE REAL." These are just some of the lists that the comic strip " XKCD" recently joked would result from retrofitting the twentieth century's most newsworthy events with modern, Internet-style headlines. Despite the growing derision of listicles exemplified by the comic, numbered lists-a venerable media format-have become one of the most ubiquitous ways to package content on the Web. Why do we find them so appealing?

The article-as-numbered-list has several features that make it inherently captivating: the headline catches our eye in a stream of content; it positions its subject within a preëxisting category and classification system, like "talented animals"; it spatially organizes the information; and it promises a story that's finite, whose length has been quantified upfront. Together, these create an easy reading experience, in which the mental heavy lifting of conceptualization, categorization, and analysis is completed well in advance of actual consumption-a bit like sipping green juice instead of munching on a bundle of kale. And there's little that our brains crave more than effortlessly acquired data.

Whenever we encounter new information, our brains immediately try to make sense of it. Once they figure out what we're seeing in a physical sense, they work to provide personal context and decide if it's relevant enough to focus on further. The process is instantaneous: we don't even realize we've made a choice in the time our minds have selected one path or another. Our gaze either stops, or we simply keep scanning. Recall a time when you were spacing out while skimming a stream of content and then, without quite knowing why, found yourself pausing to actually process the words. What made you stop and focus? On a physical level, the answer is often simple: difference. Whenever we're scanning the environment for nothing in particular, our visual system is arrested by the things that don't fit-features that suddenly change or somehow stand out from the background. A headline that is graphically salient in some way has a greater chance of capturing our eye, and in an environment where dozens of headlines and stories vie for attention, numerals break up the visual field. Consider the contexts in which we're most likely to debate which article to read: a publication's home page, a Twitter feed, or a Facebook feed. Most of what we see is words and images (even though it often seems like Web pages or streams are composed of nothing but lists). In that context, numbers pop.

Once our attention has been ensnared, we still need to be sufficiently intrigued to read the story. In 2009, when researchers at the University of Athens examined actual readers' responses to headlines from English-language newspapers in the U.S. and U.K., ranging from hard news to tabloids, they found that people preferred headlines that were both creative and uninformative, like " THE SMELL OF CORRUPTION, THE SCENT OF TRUTH" or " FACE TO FAITH." They not only rated them as more interesting over-all but also indicated that they would be more likely to read the corresponding stories. List-style headlines often provide that optimal balance of information and ambivalence, intriguing us just enough to click, on the chance that we'll come across something particularly relevant or exciting.

Once we click, lists tap into our preferred way of receiving and organizing information at a subconscious level; from an information-processing standpoint, they often hit our attentional sweet spot. When we process information, we do so spatially. For instance, it's hard to memorize through brute force the groceries we need to buy. It's easier to remember everything if we write it down in bulleted, or numbered, points. Then, even if we forget the paper at home, it is easier for us to recall what was on it because we can think back to the location of the words themselves. Lists also appeal to our general tendency to categorize things-in fact, it's hard for us not to categorize something the moment we see it-since they chunk information into short, distinct components. This type of organization facilitates both immediate understanding and later recall, as the neuroscientist Walter Kintsch pointed out back in 1968. Because we can process information more easily when it's in a list than when it's clustered and undifferentiated, like in standard paragraphs, a list feels more intuitive. In other words, lists simply feel better.

But the list's deepest appeal, and the source of its staying power, goes beyond the fact that it feels good. In 2011, the psychologists Claude Messner and Michaela Wänke investigated what, if anything, could alleviate the so-called "paradox of choice"-the phenomenon that the more information and options we have, the worse we feel. They concluded that we feel better when the amount of conscious work we have to do in order to process something is reduced; the faster we decide on something, whether it's what we're going to eat or what we're going to read, the happier we become. Within the context of a Web page or Facebook stream, with their many choices, a list is the easy pick, in part because it promises a definite ending: we think we know what we're in for, and the certainty is both alluring and reassuring. The more we know about something-including precisely how much time it will consume-the greater the chance we will commit to it. The process is self-reinforcing: we recall with pleasure that we were able to complete the task (of reading the article) instead of leaving it undone and that satisfaction, in turn, makes us more likely to click on lists again-even ones we hate-read. The social psychologist Robert Zajonc, who made his name studying the connection between emotion and cognition, argued that the positive feeling of completion in and of itself is enough to inform future decisions. Preferences, goes his famous coinage, need no inferences.

In the current media environment, a list is perfectly designed for our brain. We are drawn to it intuitively, we process it more efficiently, and we retain it with little effort. Faced with a detailed discussion of policies toward China or five insane buildings under construction in Shanghai, we tend to choose the latter bite-sized option, even when we know we will not be entirely satisfied by it. And that's just fine, as long as we realize that our fast-food information diet is necessarily limited in content and nuance, and thus unlikely to contain the nutritional value of the more in-depth analysis of traditional articles that rely on paragraphs, not bullet points.
Maria Konnikova is the author of "Mastermind: How to Think Like Sherlock Holmes." Photograph: Bert Hardy Advertising Archive/Getty.

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A List of Reasons Why Our Brains Love Lists

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Lists are one of the most ubiquitous ways to package content online. Why are they so appealing?

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Sharing in case someone is looking for cool Econ ideas...

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73 Microeconomics & Macroeconomics Review Games and Activities

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ReviewEcon.com now has 73 html5 review games and activities with 1704 questions to help students review and practice micro and macro concepts.

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Info and materials to help you with civic engagement activities in class.

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President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

Educators, administrators, students, families, community members, and others are encouraged to use these resources to support civic engagement inside and outside the classroom, especially as students work to earn the California State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE). Please use the contact information at the bottom of the page if you have questions, or to learn more about the SSCE.

Distance Learning During COVID-19

Students can still be civically engaged, even in this new and rapidly changing educational landscape. Many of the resources listed on the tabs below can be adapted for distance learning, and some programs are already providing resources designed for a virtual environment. Additionally, the links below contain several resources specifically designed to teach civics through distance learning during the COVID-19 response.

The CHSSP provides History-Social Science (HSS) resources to support teachers engaged in distance learning and parents helping children learn at home, including a parent's guide to History-Social Science (HSS).

The Office of the Governor California Volunteers Program has special opportunities to get involved with the COVID-19 volunteer response.

This page contains comprehensive information about California's COVID-19 response, including ways to become involved in the effort.
CDE Resources to Support Distance Learning
This page aggregates guidance documents, webinars, and content-specific links to support distance learning in a variety of subjects.

This article, published in the Journal of Public Affairs in April 2019, details one professor's development and implementation of a civics project in an online American government course.

These free resources from iCivics include games and toolkits designed for educators and families to use for distance learning.

Street Law provides interactive curriculum and training for teaching young people about the law and government. This list has been updated to include at-home civics learning resources and strategies.

This growing list highlights organizations that are producing and elevating resources to support civic engagement through distance learning.

Foundational Documents for Civic Engagement

In 2013, Former State Superintendent of Public Instruction (SSPI), Tom Torlakson, introduced the Civics Education Initiative. This included a series of programs and resources geared toward revitalizing statewide civic education:

The following documents provide research, case studies, and policy recommendations for improving student civic engagement.

Research and Reports

Published in 2003 as part of a partnership between the Carnegie Corporation, the Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement, this document represented an effort to gather scholars and practitioners to determine the most effective, feasible civic education programs possible. The report serves as the foundation for several other documents in this collection, and marks the beginning of the current national push to improve civic education.

The result of a three-year state-led collaborative effort, the C3 Framework for Social Studies State Standards was developed for states to upgrade their social studies standards, and for local school districts, schools, teachers, and curriculum writers to strengthen their social studies programs. Its objectives are to: (a) enhance the rigor of the social studies disciplines; (b) build critical thinking, problem solving, and participatory skills to become engaged citizens; and (c) align academic programs to the Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts and Literacy in HSS.

This 2020 report was published in the Journal of Social Studies Research to discuss the role of emotion in citizenship and presents an argument for critical affective literacy in civic education classrooms. The report also offers instructional strategies for handling the political emotions of students.

This article outlines the importance of schools promoting equity, social justice, and civic engagement in schools. It also provides an explanation of how the State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE), the Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) process, Multi-Tiered System of Supports and related efforts to incorporate civic engagement standards into the California School Dashboard can help equitable civic empowerment for all students.

This report, published by Educational Testing Service in the leadup to the 2012 presidential election, analyzes how gaps in educational attainment and income indicate fault lines in our democracy by predicting voting and civic engagement rates. The report includes specific data on young adults' civic engagement compared to their income and education, and makes recommendations for schools, colleges, and adult education.

This publication provides several key strategies for advancing civic education system wide based on experiences promoting civic learning and engagement in Chicago, Illinois and Riverside, California.

This 2011 report builds and expands on the findings of the 2003 Civic Mission of Schools. The report updates research on the benefits of civic learning, outlines the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning, and makes policy recommendations for improving civic outcomes.

This article focuses on the idea of "lived civics" as a frame for more effective civic learning by explicitly addressing the interests and experiences of young people through the context of best practices in teaching civics. The article offers ideas on reframing civics content and instruction, and includes a review of contemporary civics literature, principles of lived civics, and reflections for educators to consider.

This study of civic learning in California school districts draws upon LCAPs and district mission statements to assess the degree to which districts are focused on and devoting resources to civic priorities. It provides several key findings based upon the data, and makes recommendations for supporting the SSCE and moving forward with a systemic commitment to, and investment in, civic learning.

This report, published in 2017, adds several complementary streams of research and practice to the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning. Ideas for enhancing civic education with news media literacy education, action civics, social and emotional learning, and school climate reform are included, as well as two case studies of states improving their civic learning plans.
Revitalizing K-12 Civic Learning In California: A Blueprint For Action (PDF)
This report, by the California Task Force on K-12 Civic Learning, was published in August 2014 as a partnership between former SSPI Tom Torlakson and Supreme Court Chief Justice Tani G. Cantil-Sakauye. The report offers system-wide recommendations to improve civic learning, including revising the HSS Content Standards and Framework and improving professional learning opportunities.

Published in 2014 by the Education Commission of States, this guidebook is a resource for teachers, administrators, policymakers, and others who want to put the Six Proven Practices in place but are not sure where to begin. The document highlights research and provides practical suggestions for implementing each practice.

Council is a sharing method, focused on empathy and active listening. It can be effective especially when working on topics such as personal development and strengthening of group dynamics.

This 2013 conference, funded by the Bechtel Foundation, brought together several experts on youth civic development and citizenship education in order to promote civic development and participation for youth from all backgrounds. The report outlines recommendations regarding improving citizenship education nationwide.

General, Comprehensive Resources

These organizations offer a variety of programs to support civic learning at all levels and for a variety of audiences.

Webinars, podcasts, and curriculum to support civic engagement from a global perspective.

Series of civics programs, community partnership opportunities, lesson resources, and other publications.

Extensive array of lesson resources including Bill of Rights in Action, Civics On Call, civic scenarios and simulations, and more.

Wide variety of resources for educators , school leaders, students and families that address racism, anti-semitism, and prejudice throughout history. Key resources include curriculum, strategies, webinars, Teaching with Current Events , the Choosing to Participate Toolkit , and Fostering Civil Discourse: How do We Talk about Issues that Matter .

Classroom activities and lessons, voter registration information, teacher training and resources, school and district resources, and research on civic education.

Program geared towards helping civics educators implement comprehensive civics education programs. Includes lesson plans, an E-Congress, mock elections, research, current events discussion support, and teacher training.

Searchable Resource Databases

These sites include searchable resource databases that provide information for educators, administrators, families, and students.

Database of resources focused on career and technical education lessons. Includes primary sources, lesson plans, strategies, and resources to support Project Based Learning.

Articles, reports, lesson plans and other resources that support civic engagement.

Searchable database of resources dedicated to civic engagement. Search by content or by standard, or play games, check out curriculum units, or plan a civics scope and sequence. They also offer resources to support distance learning.

The National Endowment for the Humanities provides this resource that contains lesson plans, curricula, and full teacher's guides for grades K-12. Search by topic and grade level. Resources are HSS-focused, but also include literature, language arts, arts and culture.

Database focused on lessons for civics, government, and law-related education for K-12 students. Includes simulations, discussions, mock trials, case studies, and other research-based materials. Filter lessons by grade level, lesson topic, strategy, or standard.

Resources Targeted by Grade Level or Function

Below are recommended resources organized by grade level (kindergarten through grade eight [K-8], and grades nine through twelve [9-12]). Please keep in mind that many resources can span multiple grade levels based on individual student needs, and educators should review and adapt all resources before implementing them.

Resources for Kindergarten through Grade Eight

Even the youngest students can become civically engaged! The following resources can help K-8 students get excited about civics.

Apprentice-level learning adventures geared at teaching kids ages four through eight about the U.S. government.

One-day workshops for students and advisors to focus on teamwork and building ideas for effective student governance.

Elementary schools are encouraged to apply for Civic Learning Awards and participate in the Judges in the Classroom Program. Lesson resources are also available for elementary students on the Digital Chalkboard.

A wide range of short articles on various topics in world history, American history, and government. Also includes a series of biographies on dozens of influential individuals.

Field trips designed for kindergarten through grade two (K-2) students focusing on fundamental principles of democracy.

Students can choose from a variety of games ranging in length from 0-30+ minutes on topics such as voting, arguing Supreme Court cases, and international diplomacy.

Interdisciplinary lesson resources that use literacy and mock trials to teach key principles of civics. Some lessons are created for students in grades four and five.

Series of lessons that teach about the electoral process and encourage citizenship in the classroom, school, home and community.
Rendell Center for Civics and Civic Engagement Literature-Based Mock Trials
Lesson plans focused on teaching the skills of civil discourse when discussing social justice issues, designed for a K-2 audience.

Resources for Grades Nine through Twelve

These resources are appropriate for students primarily in high school, although many can be adapted for grades 6-8.

Information about SOS initiatives to educate and engage young Californian's in the democratic process, including programs to pre-register to vote at age 16, High School Voter Education Weeks, California Student Mock Elections, and guidance for school administrators and teachers.

An online resource for studying democracy, designed for use by teachers, professors, and college and secondary students. Includes information on essential principles of democracy, a study guide for democracy, and comparative information on the study of freedom internationally.

Curriculum for high school teachers, including an action project, research and blogging, democracy in action, and infographics.

The Institute for Local Government's PYLG units focus on roles, responsibilities, and processes of local government.

Funded by the S.D. Bechtel, Jr. Foundation, the Action Civics initiative worked to civic awareness and engagement in 14 middle and high schools in the Sacramento region. This site includes resources to support professional development provided through the program and other tools to support civic learning. The initiative also developed resources for middle school students.

High school law course materials, Supreme Court of the United States in the Classroom program, and rule of law education curriculum.

Collection of documents that focus on specific issues in American civic history. Each collection has an introduction that provides necessary context and three sets of study questions. Each of the documents is annotated with footnotes that provide biographical information on document authors and identify obscure words, events, or individuals.

Supporting the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning

This page contains some of the strongest resources for incorporating each of the Six Proven Practices of Effective Civic Learning.

The California Courts recognize and celebrate public schools' efforts to engage students in civic learning through their annual Civic Learning Awards . Co-sponsored by Chief Justice Cantil-Sakauye. Seventy-five schools earned awards in 2020. Schools seeking to earn an award may also refer to this list of resources as they set up or enhance their civic learning programs.

Instruction in Government, History, Law, Democracy

Schools can offer courses on civics, government, history, and law, in an effort to encourage better-informed citizens. The below resources include vetted, easy-to-implement curricula to support these courses.

Current Events and Controversial Issues

Effective classroom discussions of current events and controversial issues can increase student interest in government. The below resources provide a variety of options for facilitating these types of engaging discussions.

Service-Learning

Service-learning opportunities provide ways for students and the community to come together to develop habits of community engagement. These resources can help educators facilitate projects, while also tying them back to the classroom.

Extracurricular Activities

Student-led volunteer projects that occur outside of the classroom can also teach skills in collaboration and civic participation. The below organizations provide resources and ongoing support for students, teachers, administrators, and families.

Student Participation in School Governance

Giving students a voice can also help increase understanding and appreciation of the intricacies of the democratic process as it also teaches key behaviors of citizenship. These organizations provide guidance and support for schools implementing a structure for student voice in school governance.

Simulations

Simulations allow students to simulate adult civic roles and offer a unique, deep civic learning experience. Some of these programs use role-playing games to simulate government, helping students participate in processes such as national elections.

Resources for Students

The below resources are especially helpful for students looking to become more civically engaged.

Student Institutes and Conferences

While not officially part of the Six Proven Practices, participation in institutes and conferences offer additional chances for students to engage first-hand in a way that supports overall civic engagement.

Programs to Support Student Engagement

The below organizations can help support students who seek to enhance civic learning and engagement on school campuses. In light of COVID-19, many of these organizations are providing resources to support civic engagement virtually.

Miscellaneous Tips, Skills, and Ideas

These resources can help students as they carry out their civic engagement projects. Resources include advice on writing professional emails, ideas for community service projects, and helpful checklists to guide projects from start to finish.

This list will grow over time. Have you come across any other helpful guides or tools directed specifically towards helping students carry out the day-to-day work of civic engagement projects? Please share them with the CDE at ssce@cde.ca.gov.

Reminders, guidelines, and samples to help students write a variety of professional emails.

Professional Learning Opportunities for Educators

The 2016 HSS Framework incorporates critical shifts for educators. These shifts include a focus on inquiry-based instruction through innovative teaching and learning practices. The HSS Framework guides educators as they design, implement, and maintain a coherent course of study to teach content; develop inquiry-based critical thinking skills; improve reading comprehension and expository writing ability; and promote an engaged and knowledgeable citizenry in history and the related social sciences.

The Budget Act of 2017 included an allocation of funds for high-quality professional learning and resources for HSS educators and administrators to implement the new framework. Through funding from the CDE, the Sacramento County Office of Education has developed a system of statewide and regional communities of practice to provide meaningful and targeted support in HSS for classroom teachers, paraprofessionals, and site administrators. Representing the four instructional shifts described in the HSS Framework, the Content, Literacy, Inquiry, and Citizenship (CLIC) Project develops and facilitates the many elements integral for successful implementation of the HSS Framework. As part of their work, the CLIC Project hosts a YouTube channel that contains videos to support educators and administrators as they implement the HSS Framework, including videos on fostering student advocacy and classroom approaches to civic learning .

Below is a list of additional professional learning institutes, courses, and other opportunities to support educators as they implement civic learning programs.

External Websites Dedicated to the State Seal of Civic Engagement

The websites listed below have been developed by California organizations that are supporting LEAs to implement the SSCE. These sites are being updated as new resources become available.

California History-Social Science Project Sites

Each of the below CHSSP sites has a variety of resources to support professional learning in civics.

Institutes

Coaching, Seminars, Training Videos, Toolkits

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President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

# data[].attributes.body
Info and materials to help you with civic engagement activities in class

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

Educators, administrators, students, families, community members, and others are encouraged to use these resources to support civic engagement inside and outside the classroom, especially as students work to earn the California State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE). Please use the contact information at the bottom of the page if you have questions, or to learn more about the SSCE.

Distance Learning During COVID-19

Students can still be civically engaged, even in this new and rapidly changing educational landscape. Many of the resources listed on the tabs below can be adapted for distance learning, and some programs are already providing resources designed for a virtual environment. Additionally, the links below contain several resources specifically designed to teach civics through distance learning during the COVID-19 response.

The CHSSP provides History-Social Science (HSS) resources to support teachers engaged in distance learning and parents helping children learn at home, including a parent's guide to History-Social Science (HSS).

The Office of the Governor California Volunteers Program has special opportunities to get involved with the COVID-19 volunteer response.

This page contains comprehensive information about California's COVID-19 response, including ways to become involved in the effort.
CDE Resources to Support Distance Learning
This page aggregates guidance documents, webinars, and content-specific links to support distance learning in a variety of subjects.

This article, published in the Journal of Public Affairs in April 2019, details one professor's development and implementation of a civics project in an online American government course.

These free resources from iCivics include games and toolkits designed for educators and families to use for distance learning.

Street Law provides interactive curriculum and training for teaching young people about the law and government. This list has been updated to include at-home civics learning resources and strategies.

This growing list highlights organizations that are producing and elevating resources to support civic engagement through distance learning.

Foundational Documents for Civic Engagement

In 2013, Former State Superintendent of Public Instruction (SSPI), Tom Torlakson, introduced the Civics Education Initiative. This included a series of programs and resources geared toward revitalizing statewide civic education:

The following documents provide research, case studies, and policy recommendations for improving student civic engagement.

Research and Reports

Published in 2003 as part of a partnership between the Carnegie Corporation, the Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement, this document represented an effort to gather scholars and practitioners to determine the most effective, feasible civic education programs possible. The report serves as the foundation for several other documents in this collection, and marks the beginning of the current national push to improve civic education.

The result of a three-year state-led collaborative effort, the C3 Framework for Social Studies State Standards was developed for states to upgrade their social studies standards, and for local school districts, schools, teachers, and curriculum writers to strengthen their social studies programs. Its objectives are to: (a) enhance the rigor of the social studies disciplines; (b) build critical thinking, problem solving, and participatory skills to become engaged citizens; and (c) align academic programs to the Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts and Literacy in HSS.

This 2020 report was published in the Journal of Social Studies Research to discuss the role of emotion in citizenship and presents an argument for critical affective literacy in civic education classrooms. The report also offers instructional strategies for handling the political emotions of students.

This article outlines the importance of schools promoting equity, social justice, and civic engagement in schools. It also provides an explanation of how the State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE), the Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) process, Multi-Tiered System of Supports and related efforts to incorporate civic engagement standards into the California School Dashboard can help equitable civic empowerment for all students.

This report, published by Educational Testing Service in the leadup to the 2012 presidential election, analyzes how gaps in educational attainment and income indicate fault lines in our democracy by predicting voting and civic engagement rates. The report includes specific data on young adults' civic engagement compared to their income and education, and makes recommendations for schools, colleges, and adult education.

This publication provides several key strategies for advancing civic education system wide based on experiences promoting civic learning and engagement in Chicago, Illinois and Riverside, California.

This 2011 report builds and expands on the findings of the 2003 Civic Mission of Schools. The report updates research on the benefits of civic learning, outlines the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning, and makes policy recommendations for improving civic outcomes.

This article focuses on the idea of "lived civics" as a frame for more effective civic learning by explicitly addressing the interests and experiences of young people through the context of best practices in teaching civics. The article offers ideas on reframing civics content and instruction, and includes a review of contemporary civics literature, principles of lived civics, and reflections for educators to consider.

This study of civic learning in California school districts draws upon LCAPs and district mission statements to assess the degree to which districts are focused on and devoting resources to civic priorities. It provides several key findings based upon the data, and makes recommendations for supporting the SSCE and moving forward with a systemic commitment to, and investment in, civic learning.

This report, published in 2017, adds several complementary streams of research and practice to the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning. Ideas for enhancing civic education with news media literacy education, action civics, social and emotional learning, and school climate reform are included, as well as two case studies of states improving their civic learning plans.
Revitalizing K-12 Civic Learning In California: A Blueprint For Action (PDF)
This report, by the California Task Force on K-12 Civic Learning, was published in August 2014 as a partnership between former SSPI Tom Torlakson and Supreme Court Chief Justice Tani G. Cantil-Sakauye. The report offers system-wide recommendations to improve civic learning, including revising the HSS Content Standards and Framework and improving professional learning opportunities.

Published in 2014 by the Education Commission of States, this guidebook is a resource for teachers, administrators, policymakers, and others who want to put the Six Proven Practices in place but are not sure where to begin. The document highlights research and provides practical suggestions for implementing each practice.

Council is a sharing method, focused on empathy and active listening. It can be effective especially when working on topics such as personal development and strengthening of group dynamics.

This 2013 conference, funded by the Bechtel Foundation, brought together several experts on youth civic development and citizenship education in order to promote civic development and participation for youth from all backgrounds. The report outlines recommendations regarding improving citizenship education nationwide.

General, Comprehensive Resources

These organizations offer a variety of programs to support civic learning at all levels and for a variety of audiences.

Webinars, podcasts, and curriculum to support civic engagement from a global perspective.

Series of civics programs, community partnership opportunities, lesson resources, and other publications.

Extensive array of lesson resources including Bill of Rights in Action, Civics On Call, civic scenarios and simulations, and more.

Wide variety of resources for educators , school leaders, students and families that address racism, anti-semitism, and prejudice throughout history. Key resources include curriculum, strategies, webinars, Teaching with Current Events , the Choosing to Participate Toolkit , and Fostering Civil Discourse: How do We Talk about Issues that Matter .

Classroom activities and lessons, voter registration information, teacher training and resources, school and district resources, and research on civic education.

Program geared towards helping civics educators implement comprehensive civics education programs. Includes lesson plans, an E-Congress, mock elections, research, current events discussion support, and teacher training.

Searchable Resource Databases

These sites include searchable resource databases that provide information for educators, administrators, families, and students.

Database of resources focused on career and technical education lessons. Includes primary sources, lesson plans, strategies, and resources to support Project Based Learning.

Articles, reports, lesson plans and other resources that support civic engagement.

Searchable database of resources dedicated to civic engagement. Search by content or by standard, or play games, check out curriculum units, or plan a civics scope and sequence. They also offer resources to support distance learning.

The National Endowment for the Humanities provides this resource that contains lesson plans, curricula, and full teacher's guides for grades K-12. Search by topic and grade level. Resources are HSS-focused, but also include literature, language arts, arts and culture.

Database focused on lessons for civics, government, and law-related education for K-12 students. Includes simulations, discussions, mock trials, case studies, and other research-based materials. Filter lessons by grade level, lesson topic, strategy, or standard.

Resources Targeted by Grade Level or Function

Below are recommended resources organized by grade level (kindergarten through grade eight [K-8], and grades nine through twelve [9-12]). Please keep in mind that many resources can span multiple grade levels based on individual student needs, and educators should review and adapt all resources before implementing them.

Resources for Kindergarten through Grade Eight

Even the youngest students can become civically engaged! The following resources can help K-8 students get excited about civics.

Apprentice-level learning adventures geared at teaching kids ages four through eight about the U.S. government.

One-day workshops for students and advisors to focus on teamwork and building ideas for effective student governance.

Elementary schools are encouraged to apply for Civic Learning Awards and participate in the Judges in the Classroom Program. Lesson resources are also available for elementary students on the Digital Chalkboard.

A wide range of short articles on various topics in world history, American history, and government. Also includes a series of biographies on dozens of influential individuals.

Field trips designed for kindergarten through grade two (K-2) students focusing on fundamental principles of democracy.

Students can choose from a variety of games ranging in length from 0-30+ minutes on topics such as voting, arguing Supreme Court cases, and international diplomacy.

Interdisciplinary lesson resources that use literacy and mock trials to teach key principles of civics. Some lessons are created for students in grades four and five.

Series of lessons that teach about the electoral process and encourage citizenship in the classroom, school, home and community.
Rendell Center for Civics and Civic Engagement Literature-Based Mock Trials
Lesson plans focused on teaching the skills of civil discourse when discussing social justice issues, designed for a K-2 audience.

Resources for Grades Nine through Twelve

These resources are appropriate for students primarily in high school, although many can be adapted for grades 6-8.

Information about SOS initiatives to educate and engage young Californian's in the democratic process, including programs to pre-register to vote at age 16, High School Voter Education Weeks, California Student Mock Elections, and guidance for school administrators and teachers.

An online resource for studying democracy, designed for use by teachers, professors, and college and secondary students. Includes information on essential principles of democracy, a study guide for democracy, and comparative information on the study of freedom internationally.

Curriculum for high school teachers, including an action project, research and blogging, democracy in action, and infographics.

The Institute for Local Government's PYLG units focus on roles, responsibilities, and processes of local government.

Funded by the S.D. Bechtel, Jr. Foundation, the Action Civics initiative worked to civic awareness and engagement in 14 middle and high schools in the Sacramento region. This site includes resources to support professional development provided through the program and other tools to support civic learning. The initiative also developed resources for middle school students.

High school law course materials, Supreme Court of the United States in the Classroom program, and rule of law education curriculum.

Collection of documents that focus on specific issues in American civic history. Each collection has an introduction that provides necessary context and three sets of study questions. Each of the documents is annotated with footnotes that provide biographical information on document authors and identify obscure words, events, or individuals.

Supporting the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning

This page contains some of the strongest resources for incorporating each of the Six Proven Practices of Effective Civic Learning.

The California Courts recognize and celebrate public schools' efforts to engage students in civic learning through their annual Civic Learning Awards . Co-sponsored by Chief Justice Cantil-Sakauye. Seventy-five schools earned awards in 2020. Schools seeking to earn an award may also refer to this list of resources as they set up or enhance their civic learning programs.

Instruction in Government, History, Law, Democracy

Schools can offer courses on civics, government, history, and law, in an effort to encourage better-informed citizens. The below resources include vetted, easy-to-implement curricula to support these courses.

Current Events and Controversial Issues

Effective classroom discussions of current events and controversial issues can increase student interest in government. The below resources provide a variety of options for facilitating these types of engaging discussions.

Service-Learning

Service-learning opportunities provide ways for students and the community to come together to develop habits of community engagement. These resources can help educators facilitate projects, while also tying them back to the classroom.

Extracurricular Activities

Student-led volunteer projects that occur outside of the classroom can also teach skills in collaboration and civic participation. The below organizations provide resources and ongoing support for students, teachers, administrators, and families.

Student Participation in School Governance

Giving students a voice can also help increase understanding and appreciation of the intricacies of the democratic process as it also teaches key behaviors of citizenship. These organizations provide guidance and support for schools implementing a structure for student voice in school governance.

Simulations

Simulations allow students to simulate adult civic roles and offer a unique, deep civic learning experience. Some of these programs use role-playing games to simulate government, helping students participate in processes such as national elections.

Resources for Students

The below resources are especially helpful for students looking to become more civically engaged.

Student Institutes and Conferences

While not officially part of the Six Proven Practices, participation in institutes and conferences offer additional chances for students to engage first-hand in a way that supports overall civic engagement.

Programs to Support Student Engagement

The below organizations can help support students who seek to enhance civic learning and engagement on school campuses. In light of COVID-19, many of these organizations are providing resources to support civic engagement virtually.

Miscellaneous Tips, Skills, and Ideas

These resources can help students as they carry out their civic engagement projects. Resources include advice on writing professional emails, ideas for community service projects, and helpful checklists to guide projects from start to finish.

This list will grow over time. Have you come across any other helpful guides or tools directed specifically towards helping students carry out the day-to-day work of civic engagement projects? Please share them with the CDE at ssce@cde.ca.gov.

Reminders, guidelines, and samples to help students write a variety of professional emails.

Professional Learning Opportunities for Educators

The 2016 HSS Framework incorporates critical shifts for educators. These shifts include a focus on inquiry-based instruction through innovative teaching and learning practices. The HSS Framework guides educators as they design, implement, and maintain a coherent course of study to teach content; develop inquiry-based critical thinking skills; improve reading comprehension and expository writing ability; and promote an engaged and knowledgeable citizenry in history and the related social sciences.

The Budget Act of 2017 included an allocation of funds for high-quality professional learning and resources for HSS educators and administrators to implement the new framework. Through funding from the CDE, the Sacramento County Office of Education has developed a system of statewide and regional communities of practice to provide meaningful and targeted support in HSS for classroom teachers, paraprofessionals, and site administrators. Representing the four instructional shifts described in the HSS Framework, the Content, Literacy, Inquiry, and Citizenship (CLIC) Project develops and facilitates the many elements integral for successful implementation of the HSS Framework. As part of their work, the CLIC Project hosts a YouTube channel that contains videos to support educators and administrators as they implement the HSS Framework, including videos on fostering student advocacy and classroom approaches to civic learning .

Below is a list of additional professional learning institutes, courses, and other opportunities to support educators as they implement civic learning programs.

External Websites Dedicated to the State Seal of Civic Engagement

The websites listed below have been developed by California organizations that are supporting LEAs to implement the SSCE. These sites are being updated as new resources become available.

California History-Social Science Project Sites

Each of the below CHSSP sites has a variety of resources to support professional learning in civics.

Institutes

Coaching, Seminars, Training Videos, Toolkits

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President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

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Info and materials to help you with civic engagement activities in cla

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President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

Educators, administrators, students, families, community members, and others are encouraged to use these resources to support civic engagement inside and outside the classroom, especially as students work to earn the California State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE). Please use the contact information at the bottom of the page if you have questions, or to learn more about the SSCE.

Distance Learning During COVID-19

Students can still be civically engaged, even in this new and rapidly changing educational landscape. Many of the resources listed on the tabs below can be adapted for distance learning, and some programs are already providing resources designed for a virtual environment. Additionally, the links below contain several resources specifically designed to teach civics through distance learning during the COVID-19 response.

The CHSSP provides History-Social Science (HSS) resources to support teachers engaged in distance learning and parents helping children learn at home, including a parent's guide to History-Social Science (HSS).

The Office of the Governor California Volunteers Program has special opportunities to get involved with the COVID-19 volunteer response.

This page contains comprehensive information about California's COVID-19 response, including ways to become involved in the effort.
CDE Resources to Support Distance Learning
This page aggregates guidance documents, webinars, and content-specific links to support distance learning in a variety of subjects.

This article, published in the Journal of Public Affairs in April 2019, details one professor's development and implementation of a civics project in an online American government course.

These free resources from iCivics include games and toolkits designed for educators and families to use for distance learning.

Street Law provides interactive curriculum and training for teaching young people about the law and government. This list has been updated to include at-home civics learning resources and strategies.

This growing list highlights organizations that are producing and elevating resources to support civic engagement through distance learning.

Foundational Documents for Civic Engagement

In 2013, Former State Superintendent of Public Instruction (SSPI), Tom Torlakson, introduced the Civics Education Initiative. This included a series of programs and resources geared toward revitalizing statewide civic education:

The following documents provide research, case studies, and policy recommendations for improving student civic engagement.

Research and Reports

Published in 2003 as part of a partnership between the Carnegie Corporation, the Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement, this document represented an effort to gather scholars and practitioners to determine the most effective, feasible civic education programs possible. The report serves as the foundation for several other documents in this collection, and marks the beginning of the current national push to improve civic education.

The result of a three-year state-led collaborative effort, the C3 Framework for Social Studies State Standards was developed for states to upgrade their social studies standards, and for local school districts, schools, teachers, and curriculum writers to strengthen their social studies programs. Its objectives are to: (a) enhance the rigor of the social studies disciplines; (b) build critical thinking, problem solving, and participatory skills to become engaged citizens; and (c) align academic programs to the Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts and Literacy in HSS.

This 2020 report was published in the Journal of Social Studies Research to discuss the role of emotion in citizenship and presents an argument for critical affective literacy in civic education classrooms. The report also offers instructional strategies for handling the political emotions of students.

This article outlines the importance of schools promoting equity, social justice, and civic engagement in schools. It also provides an explanation of how the State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE), the Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) process, Multi-Tiered System of Supports and related efforts to incorporate civic engagement standards into the California School Dashboard can help equitable civic empowerment for all students.

This report, published by Educational Testing Service in the leadup to the 2012 presidential election, analyzes how gaps in educational attainment and income indicate fault lines in our democracy by predicting voting and civic engagement rates. The report includes specific data on young adults' civic engagement compared to their income and education, and makes recommendations for schools, colleges, and adult education.

This publication provides several key strategies for advancing civic education system wide based on experiences promoting civic learning and engagement in Chicago, Illinois and Riverside, California.

This 2011 report builds and expands on the findings of the 2003 Civic Mission of Schools. The report updates research on the benefits of civic learning, outlines the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning, and makes policy recommendations for improving civic outcomes.

This article focuses on the idea of "lived civics" as a frame for more effective civic learning by explicitly addressing the interests and experiences of young people through the context of best practices in teaching civics. The article offers ideas on reframing civics content and instruction, and includes a review of contemporary civics literature, principles of lived civics, and reflections for educators to consider.

This study of civic learning in California school districts draws upon LCAPs and district mission statements to assess the degree to which districts are focused on and devoting resources to civic priorities. It provides several key findings based upon the data, and makes recommendations for supporting the SSCE and moving forward with a systemic commitment to, and investment in, civic learning.

This report, published in 2017, adds several complementary streams of research and practice to the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning. Ideas for enhancing civic education with news media literacy education, action civics, social and emotional learning, and school climate reform are included, as well as two case studies of states improving their civic learning plans.
Revitalizing K-12 Civic Learning In California: A Blueprint For Action (PDF)
This report, by the California Task Force on K-12 Civic Learning, was published in August 2014 as a partnership between former SSPI Tom Torlakson and Supreme Court Chief Justice Tani G. Cantil-Sakauye. The report offers system-wide recommendations to improve civic learning, including revising the HSS Content Standards and Framework and improving professional learning opportunities.

Published in 2014 by the Education Commission of States, this guidebook is a resource for teachers, administrators, policymakers, and others who want to put the Six Proven Practices in place but are not sure where to begin. The document highlights research and provides practical suggestions for implementing each practice.

Council is a sharing method, focused on empathy and active listening. It can be effective especially when working on topics such as personal development and strengthening of group dynamics.

This 2013 conference, funded by the Bechtel Foundation, brought together several experts on youth civic development and citizenship education in order to promote civic development and participation for youth from all backgrounds. The report outlines recommendations regarding improving citizenship education nationwide.

General, Comprehensive Resources

These organizations offer a variety of programs to support civic learning at all levels and for a variety of audiences.

Webinars, podcasts, and curriculum to support civic engagement from a global perspective.

Series of civics programs, community partnership opportunities, lesson resources, and other publications.

Extensive array of lesson resources including Bill of Rights in Action, Civics On Call, civic scenarios and simulations, and more.

Wide variety of resources for educators , school leaders, students and families that address racism, anti-semitism, and prejudice throughout history. Key resources include curriculum, strategies, webinars, Teaching with Current Events , the Choosing to Participate Toolkit , and Fostering Civil Discourse: How do We Talk about Issues that Matter .

Classroom activities and lessons, voter registration information, teacher training and resources, school and district resources, and research on civic education.

Program geared towards helping civics educators implement comprehensive civics education programs. Includes lesson plans, an E-Congress, mock elections, research, current events discussion support, and teacher training.

Searchable Resource Databases

These sites include searchable resource databases that provide information for educators, administrators, families, and students.

Database of resources focused on career and technical education lessons. Includes primary sources, lesson plans, strategies, and resources to support Project Based Learning.

Articles, reports, lesson plans and other resources that support civic engagement.

Searchable database of resources dedicated to civic engagement. Search by content or by standard, or play games, check out curriculum units, or plan a civics scope and sequence. They also offer resources to support distance learning.

The National Endowment for the Humanities provides this resource that contains lesson plans, curricula, and full teacher's guides for grades K-12. Search by topic and grade level. Resources are HSS-focused, but also include literature, language arts, arts and culture.

Database focused on lessons for civics, government, and law-related education for K-12 students. Includes simulations, discussions, mock trials, case studies, and other research-based materials. Filter lessons by grade level, lesson topic, strategy, or standard.

Resources Targeted by Grade Level or Function

Below are recommended resources organized by grade level (kindergarten through grade eight [K-8], and grades nine through twelve [9-12]). Please keep in mind that many resources can span multiple grade levels based on individual student needs, and educators should review and adapt all resources before implementing them.

Resources for Kindergarten through Grade Eight

Even the youngest students can become civically engaged! The following resources can help K-8 students get excited about civics.

Apprentice-level learning adventures geared at teaching kids ages four through eight about the U.S. government.

One-day workshops for students and advisors to focus on teamwork and building ideas for effective student governance.

Elementary schools are encouraged to apply for Civic Learning Awards and participate in the Judges in the Classroom Program. Lesson resources are also available for elementary students on the Digital Chalkboard.

A wide range of short articles on various topics in world history, American history, and government. Also includes a series of biographies on dozens of influential individuals.

Field trips designed for kindergarten through grade two (K-2) students focusing on fundamental principles of democracy.

Students can choose from a variety of games ranging in length from 0-30+ minutes on topics such as voting, arguing Supreme Court cases, and international diplomacy.

Interdisciplinary lesson resources that use literacy and mock trials to teach key principles of civics. Some lessons are created for students in grades four and five.

Series of lessons that teach about the electoral process and encourage citizenship in the classroom, school, home and community.
Rendell Center for Civics and Civic Engagement Literature-Based Mock Trials
Lesson plans focused on teaching the skills of civil discourse when discussing social justice issues, designed for a K-2 audience.

Resources for Grades Nine through Twelve

These resources are appropriate for students primarily in high school, although many can be adapted for grades 6-8.

Information about SOS initiatives to educate and engage young Californian's in the democratic process, including programs to pre-register to vote at age 16, High School Voter Education Weeks, California Student Mock Elections, and guidance for school administrators and teachers.

An online resource for studying democracy, designed for use by teachers, professors, and college and secondary students. Includes information on essential principles of democracy, a study guide for democracy, and comparative information on the study of freedom internationally.

Curriculum for high school teachers, including an action project, research and blogging, democracy in action, and infographics.

The Institute for Local Government's PYLG units focus on roles, responsibilities, and processes of local government.

Funded by the S.D. Bechtel, Jr. Foundation, the Action Civics initiative worked to civic awareness and engagement in 14 middle and high schools in the Sacramento region. This site includes resources to support professional development provided through the program and other tools to support civic learning. The initiative also developed resources for middle school students.

High school law course materials, Supreme Court of the United States in the Classroom program, and rule of law education curriculum.

Collection of documents that focus on specific issues in American civic history. Each collection has an introduction that provides necessary context and three sets of study questions. Each of the documents is annotated with footnotes that provide biographical information on document authors and identify obscure words, events, or individuals.

Supporting the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning

This page contains some of the strongest resources for incorporating each of the Six Proven Practices of Effective Civic Learning.

The California Courts recognize and celebrate public schools' efforts to engage students in civic learning through their annual Civic Learning Awards . Co-sponsored by Chief Justice Cantil-Sakauye. Seventy-five schools earned awards in 2020. Schools seeking to earn an award may also refer to this list of resources as they set up or enhance their civic learning programs.

Instruction in Government, History, Law, Democracy

Schools can offer courses on civics, government, history, and law, in an effort to encourage better-informed citizens. The below resources include vetted, easy-to-implement curricula to support these courses.

Current Events and Controversial Issues

Effective classroom discussions of current events and controversial issues can increase student interest in government. The below resources provide a variety of options for facilitating these types of engaging discussions.

Service-Learning

Service-learning opportunities provide ways for students and the community to come together to develop habits of community engagement. These resources can help educators facilitate projects, while also tying them back to the classroom.

Extracurricular Activities

Student-led volunteer projects that occur outside of the classroom can also teach skills in collaboration and civic participation. The below organizations provide resources and ongoing support for students, teachers, administrators, and families.

Student Participation in School Governance

Giving students a voice can also help increase understanding and appreciation of the intricacies of the democratic process as it also teaches key behaviors of citizenship. These organizations provide guidance and support for schools implementing a structure for student voice in school governance.

Simulations

Simulations allow students to simulate adult civic roles and offer a unique, deep civic learning experience. Some of these programs use role-playing games to simulate government, helping students participate in processes such as national elections.

Resources for Students

The below resources are especially helpful for students looking to become more civically engaged.

Student Institutes and Conferences

While not officially part of the Six Proven Practices, participation in institutes and conferences offer additional chances for students to engage first-hand in a way that supports overall civic engagement.

Programs to Support Student Engagement

The below organizations can help support students who seek to enhance civic learning and engagement on school campuses. In light of COVID-19, many of these organizations are providing resources to support civic engagement virtually.

Miscellaneous Tips, Skills, and Ideas

These resources can help students as they carry out their civic engagement projects. Resources include advice on writing professional emails, ideas for community service projects, and helpful checklists to guide projects from start to finish.

This list will grow over time. Have you come across any other helpful guides or tools directed specifically towards helping students carry out the day-to-day work of civic engagement projects? Please share them with the CDE at ssce@cde.ca.gov.

Reminders, guidelines, and samples to help students write a variety of professional emails.

Professional Learning Opportunities for Educators

The 2016 HSS Framework incorporates critical shifts for educators. These shifts include a focus on inquiry-based instruction through innovative teaching and learning practices. The HSS Framework guides educators as they design, implement, and maintain a coherent course of study to teach content; develop inquiry-based critical thinking skills; improve reading comprehension and expository writing ability; and promote an engaged and knowledgeable citizenry in history and the related social sciences.

The Budget Act of 2017 included an allocation of funds for high-quality professional learning and resources for HSS educators and administrators to implement the new framework. Through funding from the CDE, the Sacramento County Office of Education has developed a system of statewide and regional communities of practice to provide meaningful and targeted support in HSS for classroom teachers, paraprofessionals, and site administrators. Representing the four instructional shifts described in the HSS Framework, the Content, Literacy, Inquiry, and Citizenship (CLIC) Project develops and facilitates the many elements integral for successful implementation of the HSS Framework. As part of their work, the CLIC Project hosts a YouTube channel that contains videos to support educators and administrators as they implement the HSS Framework, including videos on fostering student advocacy and classroom approaches to civic learning .

Below is a list of additional professional learning institutes, courses, and other opportunities to support educators as they implement civic learning programs.

External Websites Dedicated to the State Seal of Civic Engagement

The websites listed below have been developed by California organizations that are supporting LEAs to implement the SSCE. These sites are being updated as new resources become available.

California History-Social Science Project Sites

Each of the below CHSSP sites has a variety of resources to support professional learning in civics.

Institutes

Coaching, Seminars, Training Videos, Toolkits

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

# data[].attributes.body
Info and materials to help you with civic engagement activities

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

Educators, administrators, students, families, community members, and others are encouraged to use these resources to support civic engagement inside and outside the classroom, especially as students work to earn the California State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE). Please use the contact information at the bottom of the page if you have questions, or to learn more about the SSCE.

Distance Learning During COVID-19

Students can still be civically engaged, even in this new and rapidly changing educational landscape. Many of the resources listed on the tabs below can be adapted for distance learning, and some programs are already providing resources designed for a virtual environment. Additionally, the links below contain several resources specifically designed to teach civics through distance learning during the COVID-19 response.

The CHSSP provides History-Social Science (HSS) resources to support teachers engaged in distance learning and parents helping children learn at home, including a parent's guide to History-Social Science (HSS).

The Office of the Governor California Volunteers Program has special opportunities to get involved with the COVID-19 volunteer response.

This page contains comprehensive information about California's COVID-19 response, including ways to become involved in the effort.
CDE Resources to Support Distance Learning
This page aggregates guidance documents, webinars, and content-specific links to support distance learning in a variety of subjects.

This article, published in the Journal of Public Affairs in April 2019, details one professor's development and implementation of a civics project in an online American government course.

These free resources from iCivics include games and toolkits designed for educators and families to use for distance learning.

Street Law provides interactive curriculum and training for teaching young people about the law and government. This list has been updated to include at-home civics learning resources and strategies.

This growing list highlights organizations that are producing and elevating resources to support civic engagement through distance learning.

Foundational Documents for Civic Engagement

In 2013, Former State Superintendent of Public Instruction (SSPI), Tom Torlakson, introduced the Civics Education Initiative. This included a series of programs and resources geared toward revitalizing statewide civic education:

The following documents provide research, case studies, and policy recommendations for improving student civic engagement.

Research and Reports

Published in 2003 as part of a partnership between the Carnegie Corporation, the Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement, this document represented an effort to gather scholars and practitioners to determine the most effective, feasible civic education programs possible. The report serves as the foundation for several other documents in this collection, and marks the beginning of the current national push to improve civic education.

The result of a three-year state-led collaborative effort, the C3 Framework for Social Studies State Standards was developed for states to upgrade their social studies standards, and for local school districts, schools, teachers, and curriculum writers to strengthen their social studies programs. Its objectives are to: (a) enhance the rigor of the social studies disciplines; (b) build critical thinking, problem solving, and participatory skills to become engaged citizens; and (c) align academic programs to the Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts and Literacy in HSS.

This 2020 report was published in the Journal of Social Studies Research to discuss the role of emotion in citizenship and presents an argument for critical affective literacy in civic education classrooms. The report also offers instructional strategies for handling the political emotions of students.

This article outlines the importance of schools promoting equity, social justice, and civic engagement in schools. It also provides an explanation of how the State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE), the Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) process, Multi-Tiered System of Supports and related efforts to incorporate civic engagement standards into the California School Dashboard can help equitable civic empowerment for all students.

This report, published by Educational Testing Service in the leadup to the 2012 presidential election, analyzes how gaps in educational attainment and income indicate fault lines in our democracy by predicting voting and civic engagement rates. The report includes specific data on young adults' civic engagement compared to their income and education, and makes recommendations for schools, colleges, and adult education.

This publication provides several key strategies for advancing civic education system wide based on experiences promoting civic learning and engagement in Chicago, Illinois and Riverside, California.

This 2011 report builds and expands on the findings of the 2003 Civic Mission of Schools. The report updates research on the benefits of civic learning, outlines the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning, and makes policy recommendations for improving civic outcomes.

This article focuses on the idea of "lived civics" as a frame for more effective civic learning by explicitly addressing the interests and experiences of young people through the context of best practices in teaching civics. The article offers ideas on reframing civics content and instruction, and includes a review of contemporary civics literature, principles of lived civics, and reflections for educators to consider.

This study of civic learning in California school districts draws upon LCAPs and district mission statements to assess the degree to which districts are focused on and devoting resources to civic priorities. It provides several key findings based upon the data, and makes recommendations for supporting the SSCE and moving forward with a systemic commitment to, and investment in, civic learning.

This report, published in 2017, adds several complementary streams of research and practice to the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning. Ideas for enhancing civic education with news media literacy education, action civics, social and emotional learning, and school climate reform are included, as well as two case studies of states improving their civic learning plans.
Revitalizing K-12 Civic Learning In California: A Blueprint For Action (PDF)
This report, by the California Task Force on K-12 Civic Learning, was published in August 2014 as a partnership between former SSPI Tom Torlakson and Supreme Court Chief Justice Tani G. Cantil-Sakauye. The report offers system-wide recommendations to improve civic learning, including revising the HSS Content Standards and Framework and improving professional learning opportunities.

Published in 2014 by the Education Commission of States, this guidebook is a resource for teachers, administrators, policymakers, and others who want to put the Six Proven Practices in place but are not sure where to begin. The document highlights research and provides practical suggestions for implementing each practice.

Council is a sharing method, focused on empathy and active listening. It can be effective especially when working on topics such as personal development and strengthening of group dynamics.

This 2013 conference, funded by the Bechtel Foundation, brought together several experts on youth civic development and citizenship education in order to promote civic development and participation for youth from all backgrounds. The report outlines recommendations regarding improving citizenship education nationwide.

General, Comprehensive Resources

These organizations offer a variety of programs to support civic learning at all levels and for a variety of audiences.

Webinars, podcasts, and curriculum to support civic engagement from a global perspective.

Series of civics programs, community partnership opportunities, lesson resources, and other publications.

Extensive array of lesson resources including Bill of Rights in Action, Civics On Call, civic scenarios and simulations, and more.

Wide variety of resources for educators , school leaders, students and families that address racism, anti-semitism, and prejudice throughout history. Key resources include curriculum, strategies, webinars, Teaching with Current Events , the Choosing to Participate Toolkit , and Fostering Civil Discourse: How do We Talk about Issues that Matter .

Classroom activities and lessons, voter registration information, teacher training and resources, school and district resources, and research on civic education.

Program geared towards helping civics educators implement comprehensive civics education programs. Includes lesson plans, an E-Congress, mock elections, research, current events discussion support, and teacher training.

Searchable Resource Databases

These sites include searchable resource databases that provide information for educators, administrators, families, and students.

Database of resources focused on career and technical education lessons. Includes primary sources, lesson plans, strategies, and resources to support Project Based Learning.

Articles, reports, lesson plans and other resources that support civic engagement.

Searchable database of resources dedicated to civic engagement. Search by content or by standard, or play games, check out curriculum units, or plan a civics scope and sequence. They also offer resources to support distance learning.

The National Endowment for the Humanities provides this resource that contains lesson plans, curricula, and full teacher's guides for grades K-12. Search by topic and grade level. Resources are HSS-focused, but also include literature, language arts, arts and culture.

Database focused on lessons for civics, government, and law-related education for K-12 students. Includes simulations, discussions, mock trials, case studies, and other research-based materials. Filter lessons by grade level, lesson topic, strategy, or standard.

Resources Targeted by Grade Level or Function

Below are recommended resources organized by grade level (kindergarten through grade eight [K-8], and grades nine through twelve [9-12]). Please keep in mind that many resources can span multiple grade levels based on individual student needs, and educators should review and adapt all resources before implementing them.

Resources for Kindergarten through Grade Eight

Even the youngest students can become civically engaged! The following resources can help K-8 students get excited about civics.

Apprentice-level learning adventures geared at teaching kids ages four through eight about the U.S. government.

One-day workshops for students and advisors to focus on teamwork and building ideas for effective student governance.

Elementary schools are encouraged to apply for Civic Learning Awards and participate in the Judges in the Classroom Program. Lesson resources are also available for elementary students on the Digital Chalkboard.

A wide range of short articles on various topics in world history, American history, and government. Also includes a series of biographies on dozens of influential individuals.

Field trips designed for kindergarten through grade two (K-2) students focusing on fundamental principles of democracy.

Students can choose from a variety of games ranging in length from 0-30+ minutes on topics such as voting, arguing Supreme Court cases, and international diplomacy.

Interdisciplinary lesson resources that use literacy and mock trials to teach key principles of civics. Some lessons are created for students in grades four and five.

Series of lessons that teach about the electoral process and encourage citizenship in the classroom, school, home and community.
Rendell Center for Civics and Civic Engagement Literature-Based Mock Trials
Lesson plans focused on teaching the skills of civil discourse when discussing social justice issues, designed for a K-2 audience.

Resources for Grades Nine through Twelve

These resources are appropriate for students primarily in high school, although many can be adapted for grades 6-8.

Information about SOS initiatives to educate and engage young Californian's in the democratic process, including programs to pre-register to vote at age 16, High School Voter Education Weeks, California Student Mock Elections, and guidance for school administrators and teachers.

An online resource for studying democracy, designed for use by teachers, professors, and college and secondary students. Includes information on essential principles of democracy, a study guide for democracy, and comparative information on the study of freedom internationally.

Curriculum for high school teachers, including an action project, research and blogging, democracy in action, and infographics.

The Institute for Local Government's PYLG units focus on roles, responsibilities, and processes of local government.

Funded by the S.D. Bechtel, Jr. Foundation, the Action Civics initiative worked to civic awareness and engagement in 14 middle and high schools in the Sacramento region. This site includes resources to support professional development provided through the program and other tools to support civic learning. The initiative also developed resources for middle school students.

High school law course materials, Supreme Court of the United States in the Classroom program, and rule of law education curriculum.

Collection of documents that focus on specific issues in American civic history. Each collection has an introduction that provides necessary context and three sets of study questions. Each of the documents is annotated with footnotes that provide biographical information on document authors and identify obscure words, events, or individuals.

Supporting the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning

This page contains some of the strongest resources for incorporating each of the Six Proven Practices of Effective Civic Learning.

The California Courts recognize and celebrate public schools' efforts to engage students in civic learning through their annual Civic Learning Awards . Co-sponsored by Chief Justice Cantil-Sakauye. Seventy-five schools earned awards in 2020. Schools seeking to earn an award may also refer to this list of resources as they set up or enhance their civic learning programs.

Instruction in Government, History, Law, Democracy

Schools can offer courses on civics, government, history, and law, in an effort to encourage better-informed citizens. The below resources include vetted, easy-to-implement curricula to support these courses.

Current Events and Controversial Issues

Effective classroom discussions of current events and controversial issues can increase student interest in government. The below resources provide a variety of options for facilitating these types of engaging discussions.

Service-Learning

Service-learning opportunities provide ways for students and the community to come together to develop habits of community engagement. These resources can help educators facilitate projects, while also tying them back to the classroom.

Extracurricular Activities

Student-led volunteer projects that occur outside of the classroom can also teach skills in collaboration and civic participation. The below organizations provide resources and ongoing support for students, teachers, administrators, and families.

Student Participation in School Governance

Giving students a voice can also help increase understanding and appreciation of the intricacies of the democratic process as it also teaches key behaviors of citizenship. These organizations provide guidance and support for schools implementing a structure for student voice in school governance.

Simulations

Simulations allow students to simulate adult civic roles and offer a unique, deep civic learning experience. Some of these programs use role-playing games to simulate government, helping students participate in processes such as national elections.

Resources for Students

The below resources are especially helpful for students looking to become more civically engaged.

Student Institutes and Conferences

While not officially part of the Six Proven Practices, participation in institutes and conferences offer additional chances for students to engage first-hand in a way that supports overall civic engagement.

Programs to Support Student Engagement

The below organizations can help support students who seek to enhance civic learning and engagement on school campuses. In light of COVID-19, many of these organizations are providing resources to support civic engagement virtually.

Miscellaneous Tips, Skills, and Ideas

These resources can help students as they carry out their civic engagement projects. Resources include advice on writing professional emails, ideas for community service projects, and helpful checklists to guide projects from start to finish.

This list will grow over time. Have you come across any other helpful guides or tools directed specifically towards helping students carry out the day-to-day work of civic engagement projects? Please share them with the CDE at ssce@cde.ca.gov.

Reminders, guidelines, and samples to help students write a variety of professional emails.

Professional Learning Opportunities for Educators

The 2016 HSS Framework incorporates critical shifts for educators. These shifts include a focus on inquiry-based instruction through innovative teaching and learning practices. The HSS Framework guides educators as they design, implement, and maintain a coherent course of study to teach content; develop inquiry-based critical thinking skills; improve reading comprehension and expository writing ability; and promote an engaged and knowledgeable citizenry in history and the related social sciences.

The Budget Act of 2017 included an allocation of funds for high-quality professional learning and resources for HSS educators and administrators to implement the new framework. Through funding from the CDE, the Sacramento County Office of Education has developed a system of statewide and regional communities of practice to provide meaningful and targeted support in HSS for classroom teachers, paraprofessionals, and site administrators. Representing the four instructional shifts described in the HSS Framework, the Content, Literacy, Inquiry, and Citizenship (CLIC) Project develops and facilitates the many elements integral for successful implementation of the HSS Framework. As part of their work, the CLIC Project hosts a YouTube channel that contains videos to support educators and administrators as they implement the HSS Framework, including videos on fostering student advocacy and classroom approaches to civic learning .

Below is a list of additional professional learning institutes, courses, and other opportunities to support educators as they implement civic learning programs.

External Websites Dedicated to the State Seal of Civic Engagement

The websites listed below have been developed by California organizations that are supporting LEAs to implement the SSCE. These sites are being updated as new resources become available.

California History-Social Science Project Sites

Each of the below CHSSP sites has a variety of resources to support professional learning in civics.

Institutes

Coaching, Seminars, Training Videos, Toolkits

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

# data[].attributes.body
Info and materials to help you with civic engagement activitie

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

Educators, administrators, students, families, community members, and others are encouraged to use these resources to support civic engagement inside and outside the classroom, especially as students work to earn the California State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE). Please use the contact information at the bottom of the page if you have questions, or to learn more about the SSCE.

Distance Learning During COVID-19

Students can still be civically engaged, even in this new and rapidly changing educational landscape. Many of the resources listed on the tabs below can be adapted for distance learning, and some programs are already providing resources designed for a virtual environment. Additionally, the links below contain several resources specifically designed to teach civics through distance learning during the COVID-19 response.

The CHSSP provides History-Social Science (HSS) resources to support teachers engaged in distance learning and parents helping children learn at home, including a parent's guide to History-Social Science (HSS).

The Office of the Governor California Volunteers Program has special opportunities to get involved with the COVID-19 volunteer response.

This page contains comprehensive information about California's COVID-19 response, including ways to become involved in the effort.
CDE Resources to Support Distance Learning
This page aggregates guidance documents, webinars, and content-specific links to support distance learning in a variety of subjects.

This article, published in the Journal of Public Affairs in April 2019, details one professor's development and implementation of a civics project in an online American government course.

These free resources from iCivics include games and toolkits designed for educators and families to use for distance learning.

Street Law provides interactive curriculum and training for teaching young people about the law and government. This list has been updated to include at-home civics learning resources and strategies.

This growing list highlights organizations that are producing and elevating resources to support civic engagement through distance learning.

Foundational Documents for Civic Engagement

In 2013, Former State Superintendent of Public Instruction (SSPI), Tom Torlakson, introduced the Civics Education Initiative. This included a series of programs and resources geared toward revitalizing statewide civic education:

The following documents provide research, case studies, and policy recommendations for improving student civic engagement.

Research and Reports

Published in 2003 as part of a partnership between the Carnegie Corporation, the Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement, this document represented an effort to gather scholars and practitioners to determine the most effective, feasible civic education programs possible. The report serves as the foundation for several other documents in this collection, and marks the beginning of the current national push to improve civic education.

The result of a three-year state-led collaborative effort, the C3 Framework for Social Studies State Standards was developed for states to upgrade their social studies standards, and for local school districts, schools, teachers, and curriculum writers to strengthen their social studies programs. Its objectives are to: (a) enhance the rigor of the social studies disciplines; (b) build critical thinking, problem solving, and participatory skills to become engaged citizens; and (c) align academic programs to the Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts and Literacy in HSS.

This 2020 report was published in the Journal of Social Studies Research to discuss the role of emotion in citizenship and presents an argument for critical affective literacy in civic education classrooms. The report also offers instructional strategies for handling the political emotions of students.

This article outlines the importance of schools promoting equity, social justice, and civic engagement in schools. It also provides an explanation of how the State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE), the Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) process, Multi-Tiered System of Supports and related efforts to incorporate civic engagement standards into the California School Dashboard can help equitable civic empowerment for all students.

This report, published by Educational Testing Service in the leadup to the 2012 presidential election, analyzes how gaps in educational attainment and income indicate fault lines in our democracy by predicting voting and civic engagement rates. The report includes specific data on young adults' civic engagement compared to their income and education, and makes recommendations for schools, colleges, and adult education.

This publication provides several key strategies for advancing civic education system wide based on experiences promoting civic learning and engagement in Chicago, Illinois and Riverside, California.

This 2011 report builds and expands on the findings of the 2003 Civic Mission of Schools. The report updates research on the benefits of civic learning, outlines the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning, and makes policy recommendations for improving civic outcomes.

This article focuses on the idea of "lived civics" as a frame for more effective civic learning by explicitly addressing the interests and experiences of young people through the context of best practices in teaching civics. The article offers ideas on reframing civics content and instruction, and includes a review of contemporary civics literature, principles of lived civics, and reflections for educators to consider.

This study of civic learning in California school districts draws upon LCAPs and district mission statements to assess the degree to which districts are focused on and devoting resources to civic priorities. It provides several key findings based upon the data, and makes recommendations for supporting the SSCE and moving forward with a systemic commitment to, and investment in, civic learning.

This report, published in 2017, adds several complementary streams of research and practice to the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning. Ideas for enhancing civic education with news media literacy education, action civics, social and emotional learning, and school climate reform are included, as well as two case studies of states improving their civic learning plans.
Revitalizing K-12 Civic Learning In California: A Blueprint For Action (PDF)
This report, by the California Task Force on K-12 Civic Learning, was published in August 2014 as a partnership between former SSPI Tom Torlakson and Supreme Court Chief Justice Tani G. Cantil-Sakauye. The report offers system-wide recommendations to improve civic learning, including revising the HSS Content Standards and Framework and improving professional learning opportunities.

Published in 2014 by the Education Commission of States, this guidebook is a resource for teachers, administrators, policymakers, and others who want to put the Six Proven Practices in place but are not sure where to begin. The document highlights research and provides practical suggestions for implementing each practice.

Council is a sharing method, focused on empathy and active listening. It can be effective especially when working on topics such as personal development and strengthening of group dynamics.

This 2013 conference, funded by the Bechtel Foundation, brought together several experts on youth civic development and citizenship education in order to promote civic development and participation for youth from all backgrounds. The report outlines recommendations regarding improving citizenship education nationwide.

General, Comprehensive Resources

These organizations offer a variety of programs to support civic learning at all levels and for a variety of audiences.

Webinars, podcasts, and curriculum to support civic engagement from a global perspective.

Series of civics programs, community partnership opportunities, lesson resources, and other publications.

Extensive array of lesson resources including Bill of Rights in Action, Civics On Call, civic scenarios and simulations, and more.

Wide variety of resources for educators , school leaders, students and families that address racism, anti-semitism, and prejudice throughout history. Key resources include curriculum, strategies, webinars, Teaching with Current Events , the Choosing to Participate Toolkit , and Fostering Civil Discourse: How do We Talk about Issues that Matter .

Classroom activities and lessons, voter registration information, teacher training and resources, school and district resources, and research on civic education.

Program geared towards helping civics educators implement comprehensive civics education programs. Includes lesson plans, an E-Congress, mock elections, research, current events discussion support, and teacher training.

Searchable Resource Databases

These sites include searchable resource databases that provide information for educators, administrators, families, and students.

Database of resources focused on career and technical education lessons. Includes primary sources, lesson plans, strategies, and resources to support Project Based Learning.

Articles, reports, lesson plans and other resources that support civic engagement.

Searchable database of resources dedicated to civic engagement. Search by content or by standard, or play games, check out curriculum units, or plan a civics scope and sequence. They also offer resources to support distance learning.

The National Endowment for the Humanities provides this resource that contains lesson plans, curricula, and full teacher's guides for grades K-12. Search by topic and grade level. Resources are HSS-focused, but also include literature, language arts, arts and culture.

Database focused on lessons for civics, government, and law-related education for K-12 students. Includes simulations, discussions, mock trials, case studies, and other research-based materials. Filter lessons by grade level, lesson topic, strategy, or standard.

Resources Targeted by Grade Level or Function

Below are recommended resources organized by grade level (kindergarten through grade eight [K-8], and grades nine through twelve [9-12]). Please keep in mind that many resources can span multiple grade levels based on individual student needs, and educators should review and adapt all resources before implementing them.

Resources for Kindergarten through Grade Eight

Even the youngest students can become civically engaged! The following resources can help K-8 students get excited about civics.

Apprentice-level learning adventures geared at teaching kids ages four through eight about the U.S. government.

One-day workshops for students and advisors to focus on teamwork and building ideas for effective student governance.

Elementary schools are encouraged to apply for Civic Learning Awards and participate in the Judges in the Classroom Program. Lesson resources are also available for elementary students on the Digital Chalkboard.

A wide range of short articles on various topics in world history, American history, and government. Also includes a series of biographies on dozens of influential individuals.

Field trips designed for kindergarten through grade two (K-2) students focusing on fundamental principles of democracy.

Students can choose from a variety of games ranging in length from 0-30+ minutes on topics such as voting, arguing Supreme Court cases, and international diplomacy.

Interdisciplinary lesson resources that use literacy and mock trials to teach key principles of civics. Some lessons are created for students in grades four and five.

Series of lessons that teach about the electoral process and encourage citizenship in the classroom, school, home and community.
Rendell Center for Civics and Civic Engagement Literature-Based Mock Trials
Lesson plans focused on teaching the skills of civil discourse when discussing social justice issues, designed for a K-2 audience.

Resources for Grades Nine through Twelve

These resources are appropriate for students primarily in high school, although many can be adapted for grades 6-8.

Information about SOS initiatives to educate and engage young Californian's in the democratic process, including programs to pre-register to vote at age 16, High School Voter Education Weeks, California Student Mock Elections, and guidance for school administrators and teachers.

An online resource for studying democracy, designed for use by teachers, professors, and college and secondary students. Includes information on essential principles of democracy, a study guide for democracy, and comparative information on the study of freedom internationally.

Curriculum for high school teachers, including an action project, research and blogging, democracy in action, and infographics.

The Institute for Local Government's PYLG units focus on roles, responsibilities, and processes of local government.

Funded by the S.D. Bechtel, Jr. Foundation, the Action Civics initiative worked to civic awareness and engagement in 14 middle and high schools in the Sacramento region. This site includes resources to support professional development provided through the program and other tools to support civic learning. The initiative also developed resources for middle school students.

High school law course materials, Supreme Court of the United States in the Classroom program, and rule of law education curriculum.

Collection of documents that focus on specific issues in American civic history. Each collection has an introduction that provides necessary context and three sets of study questions. Each of the documents is annotated with footnotes that provide biographical information on document authors and identify obscure words, events, or individuals.

Supporting the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning

This page contains some of the strongest resources for incorporating each of the Six Proven Practices of Effective Civic Learning.

The California Courts recognize and celebrate public schools' efforts to engage students in civic learning through their annual Civic Learning Awards . Co-sponsored by Chief Justice Cantil-Sakauye. Seventy-five schools earned awards in 2020. Schools seeking to earn an award may also refer to this list of resources as they set up or enhance their civic learning programs.

Instruction in Government, History, Law, Democracy

Schools can offer courses on civics, government, history, and law, in an effort to encourage better-informed citizens. The below resources include vetted, easy-to-implement curricula to support these courses.

Current Events and Controversial Issues

Effective classroom discussions of current events and controversial issues can increase student interest in government. The below resources provide a variety of options for facilitating these types of engaging discussions.

Service-Learning

Service-learning opportunities provide ways for students and the community to come together to develop habits of community engagement. These resources can help educators facilitate projects, while also tying them back to the classroom.

Extracurricular Activities

Student-led volunteer projects that occur outside of the classroom can also teach skills in collaboration and civic participation. The below organizations provide resources and ongoing support for students, teachers, administrators, and families.

Student Participation in School Governance

Giving students a voice can also help increase understanding and appreciation of the intricacies of the democratic process as it also teaches key behaviors of citizenship. These organizations provide guidance and support for schools implementing a structure for student voice in school governance.

Simulations

Simulations allow students to simulate adult civic roles and offer a unique, deep civic learning experience. Some of these programs use role-playing games to simulate government, helping students participate in processes such as national elections.

Resources for Students

The below resources are especially helpful for students looking to become more civically engaged.

Student Institutes and Conferences

While not officially part of the Six Proven Practices, participation in institutes and conferences offer additional chances for students to engage first-hand in a way that supports overall civic engagement.

Programs to Support Student Engagement

The below organizations can help support students who seek to enhance civic learning and engagement on school campuses. In light of COVID-19, many of these organizations are providing resources to support civic engagement virtually.

Miscellaneous Tips, Skills, and Ideas

These resources can help students as they carry out their civic engagement projects. Resources include advice on writing professional emails, ideas for community service projects, and helpful checklists to guide projects from start to finish.

This list will grow over time. Have you come across any other helpful guides or tools directed specifically towards helping students carry out the day-to-day work of civic engagement projects? Please share them with the CDE at ssce@cde.ca.gov.

Reminders, guidelines, and samples to help students write a variety of professional emails.

Professional Learning Opportunities for Educators

The 2016 HSS Framework incorporates critical shifts for educators. These shifts include a focus on inquiry-based instruction through innovative teaching and learning practices. The HSS Framework guides educators as they design, implement, and maintain a coherent course of study to teach content; develop inquiry-based critical thinking skills; improve reading comprehension and expository writing ability; and promote an engaged and knowledgeable citizenry in history and the related social sciences.

The Budget Act of 2017 included an allocation of funds for high-quality professional learning and resources for HSS educators and administrators to implement the new framework. Through funding from the CDE, the Sacramento County Office of Education has developed a system of statewide and regional communities of practice to provide meaningful and targeted support in HSS for classroom teachers, paraprofessionals, and site administrators. Representing the four instructional shifts described in the HSS Framework, the Content, Literacy, Inquiry, and Citizenship (CLIC) Project develops and facilitates the many elements integral for successful implementation of the HSS Framework. As part of their work, the CLIC Project hosts a YouTube channel that contains videos to support educators and administrators as they implement the HSS Framework, including videos on fostering student advocacy and classroom approaches to civic learning .

Below is a list of additional professional learning institutes, courses, and other opportunities to support educators as they implement civic learning programs.

External Websites Dedicated to the State Seal of Civic Engagement

The websites listed below have been developed by California organizations that are supporting LEAs to implement the SSCE. These sites are being updated as new resources become available.

California History-Social Science Project Sites

Each of the below CHSSP sites has a variety of resources to support professional learning in civics.

Institutes

Coaching, Seminars, Training Videos, Toolkits

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

# data[].attributes.body
Info and materials to help you with civic engagement activites

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

Educators, administrators, students, families, community members, and others are encouraged to use these resources to support civic engagement inside and outside the classroom, especially as students work to earn the California State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE). Please use the contact information at the bottom of the page if you have questions, or to learn more about the SSCE.

Distance Learning During COVID-19

Students can still be civically engaged, even in this new and rapidly changing educational landscape. Many of the resources listed on the tabs below can be adapted for distance learning, and some programs are already providing resources designed for a virtual environment. Additionally, the links below contain several resources specifically designed to teach civics through distance learning during the COVID-19 response.

The CHSSP provides History-Social Science (HSS) resources to support teachers engaged in distance learning and parents helping children learn at home, including a parent's guide to History-Social Science (HSS).

The Office of the Governor California Volunteers Program has special opportunities to get involved with the COVID-19 volunteer response.

This page contains comprehensive information about California's COVID-19 response, including ways to become involved in the effort.
CDE Resources to Support Distance Learning
This page aggregates guidance documents, webinars, and content-specific links to support distance learning in a variety of subjects.

This article, published in the Journal of Public Affairs in April 2019, details one professor's development and implementation of a civics project in an online American government course.

These free resources from iCivics include games and toolkits designed for educators and families to use for distance learning.

Street Law provides interactive curriculum and training for teaching young people about the law and government. This list has been updated to include at-home civics learning resources and strategies.

This growing list highlights organizations that are producing and elevating resources to support civic engagement through distance learning.

Foundational Documents for Civic Engagement

In 2013, Former State Superintendent of Public Instruction (SSPI), Tom Torlakson, introduced the Civics Education Initiative. This included a series of programs and resources geared toward revitalizing statewide civic education:

The following documents provide research, case studies, and policy recommendations for improving student civic engagement.

Research and Reports

Published in 2003 as part of a partnership between the Carnegie Corporation, the Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement, this document represented an effort to gather scholars and practitioners to determine the most effective, feasible civic education programs possible. The report serves as the foundation for several other documents in this collection, and marks the beginning of the current national push to improve civic education.

The result of a three-year state-led collaborative effort, the C3 Framework for Social Studies State Standards was developed for states to upgrade their social studies standards, and for local school districts, schools, teachers, and curriculum writers to strengthen their social studies programs. Its objectives are to: (a) enhance the rigor of the social studies disciplines; (b) build critical thinking, problem solving, and participatory skills to become engaged citizens; and (c) align academic programs to the Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts and Literacy in HSS.

This 2020 report was published in the Journal of Social Studies Research to discuss the role of emotion in citizenship and presents an argument for critical affective literacy in civic education classrooms. The report also offers instructional strategies for handling the political emotions of students.

This article outlines the importance of schools promoting equity, social justice, and civic engagement in schools. It also provides an explanation of how the State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE), the Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) process, Multi-Tiered System of Supports and related efforts to incorporate civic engagement standards into the California School Dashboard can help equitable civic empowerment for all students.

This report, published by Educational Testing Service in the leadup to the 2012 presidential election, analyzes how gaps in educational attainment and income indicate fault lines in our democracy by predicting voting and civic engagement rates. The report includes specific data on young adults' civic engagement compared to their income and education, and makes recommendations for schools, colleges, and adult education.

This publication provides several key strategies for advancing civic education system wide based on experiences promoting civic learning and engagement in Chicago, Illinois and Riverside, California.

This 2011 report builds and expands on the findings of the 2003 Civic Mission of Schools. The report updates research on the benefits of civic learning, outlines the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning, and makes policy recommendations for improving civic outcomes.

This article focuses on the idea of "lived civics" as a frame for more effective civic learning by explicitly addressing the interests and experiences of young people through the context of best practices in teaching civics. The article offers ideas on reframing civics content and instruction, and includes a review of contemporary civics literature, principles of lived civics, and reflections for educators to consider.

This study of civic learning in California school districts draws upon LCAPs and district mission statements to assess the degree to which districts are focused on and devoting resources to civic priorities. It provides several key findings based upon the data, and makes recommendations for supporting the SSCE and moving forward with a systemic commitment to, and investment in, civic learning.

This report, published in 2017, adds several complementary streams of research and practice to the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning. Ideas for enhancing civic education with news media literacy education, action civics, social and emotional learning, and school climate reform are included, as well as two case studies of states improving their civic learning plans.
Revitalizing K-12 Civic Learning In California: A Blueprint For Action (PDF)
This report, by the California Task Force on K-12 Civic Learning, was published in August 2014 as a partnership between former SSPI Tom Torlakson and Supreme Court Chief Justice Tani G. Cantil-Sakauye. The report offers system-wide recommendations to improve civic learning, including revising the HSS Content Standards and Framework and improving professional learning opportunities.

Published in 2014 by the Education Commission of States, this guidebook is a resource for teachers, administrators, policymakers, and others who want to put the Six Proven Practices in place but are not sure where to begin. The document highlights research and provides practical suggestions for implementing each practice.

Council is a sharing method, focused on empathy and active listening. It can be effective especially when working on topics such as personal development and strengthening of group dynamics.

This 2013 conference, funded by the Bechtel Foundation, brought together several experts on youth civic development and citizenship education in order to promote civic development and participation for youth from all backgrounds. The report outlines recommendations regarding improving citizenship education nationwide.

General, Comprehensive Resources

These organizations offer a variety of programs to support civic learning at all levels and for a variety of audiences.

Webinars, podcasts, and curriculum to support civic engagement from a global perspective.

Series of civics programs, community partnership opportunities, lesson resources, and other publications.

Extensive array of lesson resources including Bill of Rights in Action, Civics On Call, civic scenarios and simulations, and more.

Wide variety of resources for educators , school leaders, students and families that address racism, anti-semitism, and prejudice throughout history. Key resources include curriculum, strategies, webinars, Teaching with Current Events , the Choosing to Participate Toolkit , and Fostering Civil Discourse: How do We Talk about Issues that Matter .

Classroom activities and lessons, voter registration information, teacher training and resources, school and district resources, and research on civic education.

Program geared towards helping civics educators implement comprehensive civics education programs. Includes lesson plans, an E-Congress, mock elections, research, current events discussion support, and teacher training.

Searchable Resource Databases

These sites include searchable resource databases that provide information for educators, administrators, families, and students.

Database of resources focused on career and technical education lessons. Includes primary sources, lesson plans, strategies, and resources to support Project Based Learning.

Articles, reports, lesson plans and other resources that support civic engagement.

Searchable database of resources dedicated to civic engagement. Search by content or by standard, or play games, check out curriculum units, or plan a civics scope and sequence. They also offer resources to support distance learning.

The National Endowment for the Humanities provides this resource that contains lesson plans, curricula, and full teacher's guides for grades K-12. Search by topic and grade level. Resources are HSS-focused, but also include literature, language arts, arts and culture.

Database focused on lessons for civics, government, and law-related education for K-12 students. Includes simulations, discussions, mock trials, case studies, and other research-based materials. Filter lessons by grade level, lesson topic, strategy, or standard.

Resources Targeted by Grade Level or Function

Below are recommended resources organized by grade level (kindergarten through grade eight [K-8], and grades nine through twelve [9-12]). Please keep in mind that many resources can span multiple grade levels based on individual student needs, and educators should review and adapt all resources before implementing them.

Resources for Kindergarten through Grade Eight

Even the youngest students can become civically engaged! The following resources can help K-8 students get excited about civics.

Apprentice-level learning adventures geared at teaching kids ages four through eight about the U.S. government.

One-day workshops for students and advisors to focus on teamwork and building ideas for effective student governance.

Elementary schools are encouraged to apply for Civic Learning Awards and participate in the Judges in the Classroom Program. Lesson resources are also available for elementary students on the Digital Chalkboard.

A wide range of short articles on various topics in world history, American history, and government. Also includes a series of biographies on dozens of influential individuals.

Field trips designed for kindergarten through grade two (K-2) students focusing on fundamental principles of democracy.

Students can choose from a variety of games ranging in length from 0-30+ minutes on topics such as voting, arguing Supreme Court cases, and international diplomacy.

Interdisciplinary lesson resources that use literacy and mock trials to teach key principles of civics. Some lessons are created for students in grades four and five.

Series of lessons that teach about the electoral process and encourage citizenship in the classroom, school, home and community.
Rendell Center for Civics and Civic Engagement Literature-Based Mock Trials
Lesson plans focused on teaching the skills of civil discourse when discussing social justice issues, designed for a K-2 audience.

Resources for Grades Nine through Twelve

These resources are appropriate for students primarily in high school, although many can be adapted for grades 6-8.

Information about SOS initiatives to educate and engage young Californian's in the democratic process, including programs to pre-register to vote at age 16, High School Voter Education Weeks, California Student Mock Elections, and guidance for school administrators and teachers.

An online resource for studying democracy, designed for use by teachers, professors, and college and secondary students. Includes information on essential principles of democracy, a study guide for democracy, and comparative information on the study of freedom internationally.

Curriculum for high school teachers, including an action project, research and blogging, democracy in action, and infographics.

The Institute for Local Government's PYLG units focus on roles, responsibilities, and processes of local government.

Funded by the S.D. Bechtel, Jr. Foundation, the Action Civics initiative worked to civic awareness and engagement in 14 middle and high schools in the Sacramento region. This site includes resources to support professional development provided through the program and other tools to support civic learning. The initiative also developed resources for middle school students.

High school law course materials, Supreme Court of the United States in the Classroom program, and rule of law education curriculum.

Collection of documents that focus on specific issues in American civic history. Each collection has an introduction that provides necessary context and three sets of study questions. Each of the documents is annotated with footnotes that provide biographical information on document authors and identify obscure words, events, or individuals.

Supporting the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning

This page contains some of the strongest resources for incorporating each of the Six Proven Practices of Effective Civic Learning.

The California Courts recognize and celebrate public schools' efforts to engage students in civic learning through their annual Civic Learning Awards . Co-sponsored by Chief Justice Cantil-Sakauye. Seventy-five schools earned awards in 2020. Schools seeking to earn an award may also refer to this list of resources as they set up or enhance their civic learning programs.

Instruction in Government, History, Law, Democracy

Schools can offer courses on civics, government, history, and law, in an effort to encourage better-informed citizens. The below resources include vetted, easy-to-implement curricula to support these courses.

Current Events and Controversial Issues

Effective classroom discussions of current events and controversial issues can increase student interest in government. The below resources provide a variety of options for facilitating these types of engaging discussions.

Service-Learning

Service-learning opportunities provide ways for students and the community to come together to develop habits of community engagement. These resources can help educators facilitate projects, while also tying them back to the classroom.

Extracurricular Activities

Student-led volunteer projects that occur outside of the classroom can also teach skills in collaboration and civic participation. The below organizations provide resources and ongoing support for students, teachers, administrators, and families.

Student Participation in School Governance

Giving students a voice can also help increase understanding and appreciation of the intricacies of the democratic process as it also teaches key behaviors of citizenship. These organizations provide guidance and support for schools implementing a structure for student voice in school governance.

Simulations

Simulations allow students to simulate adult civic roles and offer a unique, deep civic learning experience. Some of these programs use role-playing games to simulate government, helping students participate in processes such as national elections.

Resources for Students

The below resources are especially helpful for students looking to become more civically engaged.

Student Institutes and Conferences

While not officially part of the Six Proven Practices, participation in institutes and conferences offer additional chances for students to engage first-hand in a way that supports overall civic engagement.

Programs to Support Student Engagement

The below organizations can help support students who seek to enhance civic learning and engagement on school campuses. In light of COVID-19, many of these organizations are providing resources to support civic engagement virtually.

Miscellaneous Tips, Skills, and Ideas

These resources can help students as they carry out their civic engagement projects. Resources include advice on writing professional emails, ideas for community service projects, and helpful checklists to guide projects from start to finish.

This list will grow over time. Have you come across any other helpful guides or tools directed specifically towards helping students carry out the day-to-day work of civic engagement projects? Please share them with the CDE at ssce@cde.ca.gov.

Reminders, guidelines, and samples to help students write a variety of professional emails.

Professional Learning Opportunities for Educators

The 2016 HSS Framework incorporates critical shifts for educators. These shifts include a focus on inquiry-based instruction through innovative teaching and learning practices. The HSS Framework guides educators as they design, implement, and maintain a coherent course of study to teach content; develop inquiry-based critical thinking skills; improve reading comprehension and expository writing ability; and promote an engaged and knowledgeable citizenry in history and the related social sciences.

The Budget Act of 2017 included an allocation of funds for high-quality professional learning and resources for HSS educators and administrators to implement the new framework. Through funding from the CDE, the Sacramento County Office of Education has developed a system of statewide and regional communities of practice to provide meaningful and targeted support in HSS for classroom teachers, paraprofessionals, and site administrators. Representing the four instructional shifts described in the HSS Framework, the Content, Literacy, Inquiry, and Citizenship (CLIC) Project develops and facilitates the many elements integral for successful implementation of the HSS Framework. As part of their work, the CLIC Project hosts a YouTube channel that contains videos to support educators and administrators as they implement the HSS Framework, including videos on fostering student advocacy and classroom approaches to civic learning .

Below is a list of additional professional learning institutes, courses, and other opportunities to support educators as they implement civic learning programs.

External Websites Dedicated to the State Seal of Civic Engagement

The websites listed below have been developed by California organizations that are supporting LEAs to implement the SSCE. These sites are being updated as new resources become available.

California History-Social Science Project Sites

Each of the below CHSSP sites has a variety of resources to support professional learning in civics.

Institutes

Coaching, Seminars, Training Videos, Toolkits

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

# data[].attributes.body
Info and materials to help you with civic engagement activites

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

Educators, administrators, students, families, community members, and others are encouraged to use these resources to support civic engagement inside and outside the classroom, especially as students work to earn the California State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE). Please use the contact information at the bottom of the page if you have questions, or to learn more about the SSCE.

Distance Learning During COVID-19

Students can still be civically engaged, even in this new and rapidly changing educational landscape. Many of the resources listed on the tabs below can be adapted for distance learning, and some programs are already providing resources designed for a virtual environment. Additionally, the links below contain several resources specifically designed to teach civics through distance learning during the COVID-19 response.

The CHSSP provides History-Social Science (HSS) resources to support teachers engaged in distance learning and parents helping children learn at home, including a parent's guide to History-Social Science (HSS).

The Office of the Governor California Volunteers Program has special opportunities to get involved with the COVID-19 volunteer response.

This page contains comprehensive information about California's COVID-19 response, including ways to become involved in the effort.
CDE Resources to Support Distance Learning
This page aggregates guidance documents, webinars, and content-specific links to support distance learning in a variety of subjects.

This article, published in the Journal of Public Affairs in April 2019, details one professor's development and implementation of a civics project in an online American government course.

These free resources from iCivics include games and toolkits designed for educators and families to use for distance learning.

Street Law provides interactive curriculum and training for teaching young people about the law and government. This list has been updated to include at-home civics learning resources and strategies.

This growing list highlights organizations that are producing and elevating resources to support civic engagement through distance learning.

Foundational Documents for Civic Engagement

In 2013, Former State Superintendent of Public Instruction (SSPI), Tom Torlakson, introduced the Civics Education Initiative. This included a series of programs and resources geared toward revitalizing statewide civic education:

The following documents provide research, case studies, and policy recommendations for improving student civic engagement.

Research and Reports

Published in 2003 as part of a partnership between the Carnegie Corporation, the Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement, this document represented an effort to gather scholars and practitioners to determine the most effective, feasible civic education programs possible. The report serves as the foundation for several other documents in this collection, and marks the beginning of the current national push to improve civic education.

The result of a three-year state-led collaborative effort, the C3 Framework for Social Studies State Standards was developed for states to upgrade their social studies standards, and for local school districts, schools, teachers, and curriculum writers to strengthen their social studies programs. Its objectives are to: (a) enhance the rigor of the social studies disciplines; (b) build critical thinking, problem solving, and participatory skills to become engaged citizens; and (c) align academic programs to the Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts and Literacy in HSS.

This 2020 report was published in the Journal of Social Studies Research to discuss the role of emotion in citizenship and presents an argument for critical affective literacy in civic education classrooms. The report also offers instructional strategies for handling the political emotions of students.

This article outlines the importance of schools promoting equity, social justice, and civic engagement in schools. It also provides an explanation of how the State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE), the Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) process, Multi-Tiered System of Supports and related efforts to incorporate civic engagement standards into the California School Dashboard can help equitable civic empowerment for all students.

This report, published by Educational Testing Service in the leadup to the 2012 presidential election, analyzes how gaps in educational attainment and income indicate fault lines in our democracy by predicting voting and civic engagement rates. The report includes specific data on young adults' civic engagement compared to their income and education, and makes recommendations for schools, colleges, and adult education.

This publication provides several key strategies for advancing civic education system wide based on experiences promoting civic learning and engagement in Chicago, Illinois and Riverside, California.

This 2011 report builds and expands on the findings of the 2003 Civic Mission of Schools. The report updates research on the benefits of civic learning, outlines the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning, and makes policy recommendations for improving civic outcomes.

This article focuses on the idea of "lived civics" as a frame for more effective civic learning by explicitly addressing the interests and experiences of young people through the context of best practices in teaching civics. The article offers ideas on reframing civics content and instruction, and includes a review of contemporary civics literature, principles of lived civics, and reflections for educators to consider.

This study of civic learning in California school districts draws upon LCAPs and district mission statements to assess the degree to which districts are focused on and devoting resources to civic priorities. It provides several key findings based upon the data, and makes recommendations for supporting the SSCE and moving forward with a systemic commitment to, and investment in, civic learning.

This report, published in 2017, adds several complementary streams of research and practice to the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning. Ideas for enhancing civic education with news media literacy education, action civics, social and emotional learning, and school climate reform are included, as well as two case studies of states improving their civic learning plans.
Revitalizing K-12 Civic Learning In California: A Blueprint For Action (PDF)
This report, by the California Task Force on K-12 Civic Learning, was published in August 2014 as a partnership between former SSPI Tom Torlakson and Supreme Court Chief Justice Tani G. Cantil-Sakauye. The report offers system-wide recommendations to improve civic learning, including revising the HSS Content Standards and Framework and improving professional learning opportunities.

Published in 2014 by the Education Commission of States, this guidebook is a resource for teachers, administrators, policymakers, and others who want to put the Six Proven Practices in place but are not sure where to begin. The document highlights research and provides practical suggestions for implementing each practice.

Council is a sharing method, focused on empathy and active listening. It can be effective especially when working on topics such as personal development and strengthening of group dynamics.

This 2013 conference, funded by the Bechtel Foundation, brought together several experts on youth civic development and citizenship education in order to promote civic development and participation for youth from all backgrounds. The report outlines recommendations regarding improving citizenship education nationwide.

General, Comprehensive Resources

These organizations offer a variety of programs to support civic learning at all levels and for a variety of audiences.

Webinars, podcasts, and curriculum to support civic engagement from a global perspective.

Series of civics programs, community partnership opportunities, lesson resources, and other publications.

Extensive array of lesson resources including Bill of Rights in Action, Civics On Call, civic scenarios and simulations, and more.

Wide variety of resources for educators , school leaders, students and families that address racism, anti-semitism, and prejudice throughout history. Key resources include curriculum, strategies, webinars, Teaching with Current Events , the Choosing to Participate Toolkit , and Fostering Civil Discourse: How do We Talk about Issues that Matter .

Classroom activities and lessons, voter registration information, teacher training and resources, school and district resources, and research on civic education.

Program geared towards helping civics educators implement comprehensive civics education programs. Includes lesson plans, an E-Congress, mock elections, research, current events discussion support, and teacher training.

Searchable Resource Databases

These sites include searchable resource databases that provide information for educators, administrators, families, and students.

Database of resources focused on career and technical education lessons. Includes primary sources, lesson plans, strategies, and resources to support Project Based Learning.

Articles, reports, lesson plans and other resources that support civic engagement.

Searchable database of resources dedicated to civic engagement. Search by content or by standard, or play games, check out curriculum units, or plan a civics scope and sequence. They also offer resources to support distance learning.

The National Endowment for the Humanities provides this resource that contains lesson plans, curricula, and full teacher's guides for grades K-12. Search by topic and grade level. Resources are HSS-focused, but also include literature, language arts, arts and culture.

Database focused on lessons for civics, government, and law-related education for K-12 students. Includes simulations, discussions, mock trials, case studies, and other research-based materials. Filter lessons by grade level, lesson topic, strategy, or standard.

Resources Targeted by Grade Level or Function

Below are recommended resources organized by grade level (kindergarten through grade eight [K-8], and grades nine through twelve [9-12]). Please keep in mind that many resources can span multiple grade levels based on individual student needs, and educators should review and adapt all resources before implementing them.

Resources for Kindergarten through Grade Eight

Even the youngest students can become civically engaged! The following resources can help K-8 students get excited about civics.

Apprentice-level learning adventures geared at teaching kids ages four through eight about the U.S. government.

One-day workshops for students and advisors to focus on teamwork and building ideas for effective student governance.

Elementary schools are encouraged to apply for Civic Learning Awards and participate in the Judges in the Classroom Program. Lesson resources are also available for elementary students on the Digital Chalkboard.

A wide range of short articles on various topics in world history, American history, and government. Also includes a series of biographies on dozens of influential individuals.

Field trips designed for kindergarten through grade two (K-2) students focusing on fundamental principles of democracy.

Students can choose from a variety of games ranging in length from 0-30+ minutes on topics such as voting, arguing Supreme Court cases, and international diplomacy.

Interdisciplinary lesson resources that use literacy and mock trials to teach key principles of civics. Some lessons are created for students in grades four and five.

Series of lessons that teach about the electoral process and encourage citizenship in the classroom, school, home and community.
Rendell Center for Civics and Civic Engagement Literature-Based Mock Trials
Lesson plans focused on teaching the skills of civil discourse when discussing social justice issues, designed for a K-2 audience.

Resources for Grades Nine through Twelve

These resources are appropriate for students primarily in high school, although many can be adapted for grades 6-8.

Information about SOS initiatives to educate and engage young Californian's in the democratic process, including programs to pre-register to vote at age 16, High School Voter Education Weeks, California Student Mock Elections, and guidance for school administrators and teachers.

An online resource for studying democracy, designed for use by teachers, professors, and college and secondary students. Includes information on essential principles of democracy, a study guide for democracy, and comparative information on the study of freedom internationally.

Curriculum for high school teachers, including an action project, research and blogging, democracy in action, and infographics.

The Institute for Local Government's PYLG units focus on roles, responsibilities, and processes of local government.

Funded by the S.D. Bechtel, Jr. Foundation, the Action Civics initiative worked to civic awareness and engagement in 14 middle and high schools in the Sacramento region. This site includes resources to support professional development provided through the program and other tools to support civic learning. The initiative also developed resources for middle school students.

High school law course materials, Supreme Court of the United States in the Classroom program, and rule of law education curriculum.

Collection of documents that focus on specific issues in American civic history. Each collection has an introduction that provides necessary context and three sets of study questions. Each of the documents is annotated with footnotes that provide biographical information on document authors and identify obscure words, events, or individuals.

Supporting the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning

This page contains some of the strongest resources for incorporating each of the Six Proven Practices of Effective Civic Learning.

The California Courts recognize and celebrate public schools' efforts to engage students in civic learning through their annual Civic Learning Awards . Co-sponsored by Chief Justice Cantil-Sakauye. Seventy-five schools earned awards in 2020. Schools seeking to earn an award may also refer to this list of resources as they set up or enhance their civic learning programs.

Instruction in Government, History, Law, Democracy

Schools can offer courses on civics, government, history, and law, in an effort to encourage better-informed citizens. The below resources include vetted, easy-to-implement curricula to support these courses.

Current Events and Controversial Issues

Effective classroom discussions of current events and controversial issues can increase student interest in government. The below resources provide a variety of options for facilitating these types of engaging discussions.

Service-Learning

Service-learning opportunities provide ways for students and the community to come together to develop habits of community engagement. These resources can help educators facilitate projects, while also tying them back to the classroom.

Extracurricular Activities

Student-led volunteer projects that occur outside of the classroom can also teach skills in collaboration and civic participation. The below organizations provide resources and ongoing support for students, teachers, administrators, and families.

Student Participation in School Governance

Giving students a voice can also help increase understanding and appreciation of the intricacies of the democratic process as it also teaches key behaviors of citizenship. These organizations provide guidance and support for schools implementing a structure for student voice in school governance.

Simulations

Simulations allow students to simulate adult civic roles and offer a unique, deep civic learning experience. Some of these programs use role-playing games to simulate government, helping students participate in processes such as national elections.

Resources for Students

The below resources are especially helpful for students looking to become more civically engaged.

Student Institutes and Conferences

While not officially part of the Six Proven Practices, participation in institutes and conferences offer additional chances for students to engage first-hand in a way that supports overall civic engagement.

Programs to Support Student Engagement

The below organizations can help support students who seek to enhance civic learning and engagement on school campuses. In light of COVID-19, many of these organizations are providing resources to support civic engagement virtually.

Miscellaneous Tips, Skills, and Ideas

These resources can help students as they carry out their civic engagement projects. Resources include advice on writing professional emails, ideas for community service projects, and helpful checklists to guide projects from start to finish.

This list will grow over time. Have you come across any other helpful guides or tools directed specifically towards helping students carry out the day-to-day work of civic engagement projects? Please share them with the CDE at ssce@cde.ca.gov.

Reminders, guidelines, and samples to help students write a variety of professional emails.

Professional Learning Opportunities for Educators

The 2016 HSS Framework incorporates critical shifts for educators. These shifts include a focus on inquiry-based instruction through innovative teaching and learning practices. The HSS Framework guides educators as they design, implement, and maintain a coherent course of study to teach content; develop inquiry-based critical thinking skills; improve reading comprehension and expository writing ability; and promote an engaged and knowledgeable citizenry in history and the related social sciences.

The Budget Act of 2017 included an allocation of funds for high-quality professional learning and resources for HSS educators and administrators to implement the new framework. Through funding from the CDE, the Sacramento County Office of Education has developed a system of statewide and regional communities of practice to provide meaningful and targeted support in HSS for classroom teachers, paraprofessionals, and site administrators. Representing the four instructional shifts described in the HSS Framework, the Content, Literacy, Inquiry, and Citizenship (CLIC) Project develops and facilitates the many elements integral for successful implementation of the HSS Framework. As part of their work, the CLIC Project hosts a YouTube channel that contains videos to support educators and administrators as they implement the HSS Framework, including videos on fostering student advocacy and classroom approaches to civic learning .

Below is a list of additional professional learning institutes, courses, and other opportunities to support educators as they implement civic learning programs.

External Websites Dedicated to the State Seal of Civic Engagement

The websites listed below have been developed by California organizations that are supporting LEAs to implement the SSCE. These sites are being updated as new resources become available.

California History-Social Science Project Sites

Each of the below CHSSP sites has a variety of resources to support professional learning in civics.

Institutes

Coaching, Seminars, Training Videos, Toolkits

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

# data[].attributes.body
Info and materials to help you with civic engagement activit

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

Educators, administrators, students, families, community members, and others are encouraged to use these resources to support civic engagement inside and outside the classroom, especially as students work to earn the California State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE). Please use the contact information at the bottom of the page if you have questions, or to learn more about the SSCE.

Distance Learning During COVID-19

Students can still be civically engaged, even in this new and rapidly changing educational landscape. Many of the resources listed on the tabs below can be adapted for distance learning, and some programs are already providing resources designed for a virtual environment. Additionally, the links below contain several resources specifically designed to teach civics through distance learning during the COVID-19 response.

The CHSSP provides History-Social Science (HSS) resources to support teachers engaged in distance learning and parents helping children learn at home, including a parent's guide to History-Social Science (HSS).

The Office of the Governor California Volunteers Program has special opportunities to get involved with the COVID-19 volunteer response.

This page contains comprehensive information about California's COVID-19 response, including ways to become involved in the effort.
CDE Resources to Support Distance Learning
This page aggregates guidance documents, webinars, and content-specific links to support distance learning in a variety of subjects.

This article, published in the Journal of Public Affairs in April 2019, details one professor's development and implementation of a civics project in an online American government course.

These free resources from iCivics include games and toolkits designed for educators and families to use for distance learning.

Street Law provides interactive curriculum and training for teaching young people about the law and government. This list has been updated to include at-home civics learning resources and strategies.

This growing list highlights organizations that are producing and elevating resources to support civic engagement through distance learning.

Foundational Documents for Civic Engagement

In 2013, Former State Superintendent of Public Instruction (SSPI), Tom Torlakson, introduced the Civics Education Initiative. This included a series of programs and resources geared toward revitalizing statewide civic education:

The following documents provide research, case studies, and policy recommendations for improving student civic engagement.

Research and Reports

Published in 2003 as part of a partnership between the Carnegie Corporation, the Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement, this document represented an effort to gather scholars and practitioners to determine the most effective, feasible civic education programs possible. The report serves as the foundation for several other documents in this collection, and marks the beginning of the current national push to improve civic education.

The result of a three-year state-led collaborative effort, the C3 Framework for Social Studies State Standards was developed for states to upgrade their social studies standards, and for local school districts, schools, teachers, and curriculum writers to strengthen their social studies programs. Its objectives are to: (a) enhance the rigor of the social studies disciplines; (b) build critical thinking, problem solving, and participatory skills to become engaged citizens; and (c) align academic programs to the Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts and Literacy in HSS.

This 2020 report was published in the Journal of Social Studies Research to discuss the role of emotion in citizenship and presents an argument for critical affective literacy in civic education classrooms. The report also offers instructional strategies for handling the political emotions of students.

This article outlines the importance of schools promoting equity, social justice, and civic engagement in schools. It also provides an explanation of how the State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE), the Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) process, Multi-Tiered System of Supports and related efforts to incorporate civic engagement standards into the California School Dashboard can help equitable civic empowerment for all students.

This report, published by Educational Testing Service in the leadup to the 2012 presidential election, analyzes how gaps in educational attainment and income indicate fault lines in our democracy by predicting voting and civic engagement rates. The report includes specific data on young adults' civic engagement compared to their income and education, and makes recommendations for schools, colleges, and adult education.

This publication provides several key strategies for advancing civic education system wide based on experiences promoting civic learning and engagement in Chicago, Illinois and Riverside, California.

This 2011 report builds and expands on the findings of the 2003 Civic Mission of Schools. The report updates research on the benefits of civic learning, outlines the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning, and makes policy recommendations for improving civic outcomes.

This article focuses on the idea of "lived civics" as a frame for more effective civic learning by explicitly addressing the interests and experiences of young people through the context of best practices in teaching civics. The article offers ideas on reframing civics content and instruction, and includes a review of contemporary civics literature, principles of lived civics, and reflections for educators to consider.

This study of civic learning in California school districts draws upon LCAPs and district mission statements to assess the degree to which districts are focused on and devoting resources to civic priorities. It provides several key findings based upon the data, and makes recommendations for supporting the SSCE and moving forward with a systemic commitment to, and investment in, civic learning.

This report, published in 2017, adds several complementary streams of research and practice to the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning. Ideas for enhancing civic education with news media literacy education, action civics, social and emotional learning, and school climate reform are included, as well as two case studies of states improving their civic learning plans.
Revitalizing K-12 Civic Learning In California: A Blueprint For Action (PDF)
This report, by the California Task Force on K-12 Civic Learning, was published in August 2014 as a partnership between former SSPI Tom Torlakson and Supreme Court Chief Justice Tani G. Cantil-Sakauye. The report offers system-wide recommendations to improve civic learning, including revising the HSS Content Standards and Framework and improving professional learning opportunities.

Published in 2014 by the Education Commission of States, this guidebook is a resource for teachers, administrators, policymakers, and others who want to put the Six Proven Practices in place but are not sure where to begin. The document highlights research and provides practical suggestions for implementing each practice.

Council is a sharing method, focused on empathy and active listening. It can be effective especially when working on topics such as personal development and strengthening of group dynamics.

This 2013 conference, funded by the Bechtel Foundation, brought together several experts on youth civic development and citizenship education in order to promote civic development and participation for youth from all backgrounds. The report outlines recommendations regarding improving citizenship education nationwide.

General, Comprehensive Resources

These organizations offer a variety of programs to support civic learning at all levels and for a variety of audiences.

Webinars, podcasts, and curriculum to support civic engagement from a global perspective.

Series of civics programs, community partnership opportunities, lesson resources, and other publications.

Extensive array of lesson resources including Bill of Rights in Action, Civics On Call, civic scenarios and simulations, and more.

Wide variety of resources for educators , school leaders, students and families that address racism, anti-semitism, and prejudice throughout history. Key resources include curriculum, strategies, webinars, Teaching with Current Events , the Choosing to Participate Toolkit , and Fostering Civil Discourse: How do We Talk about Issues that Matter .

Classroom activities and lessons, voter registration information, teacher training and resources, school and district resources, and research on civic education.

Program geared towards helping civics educators implement comprehensive civics education programs. Includes lesson plans, an E-Congress, mock elections, research, current events discussion support, and teacher training.

Searchable Resource Databases

These sites include searchable resource databases that provide information for educators, administrators, families, and students.

Database of resources focused on career and technical education lessons. Includes primary sources, lesson plans, strategies, and resources to support Project Based Learning.

Articles, reports, lesson plans and other resources that support civic engagement.

Searchable database of resources dedicated to civic engagement. Search by content or by standard, or play games, check out curriculum units, or plan a civics scope and sequence. They also offer resources to support distance learning.

The National Endowment for the Humanities provides this resource that contains lesson plans, curricula, and full teacher's guides for grades K-12. Search by topic and grade level. Resources are HSS-focused, but also include literature, language arts, arts and culture.

Database focused on lessons for civics, government, and law-related education for K-12 students. Includes simulations, discussions, mock trials, case studies, and other research-based materials. Filter lessons by grade level, lesson topic, strategy, or standard.

Resources Targeted by Grade Level or Function

Below are recommended resources organized by grade level (kindergarten through grade eight [K-8], and grades nine through twelve [9-12]). Please keep in mind that many resources can span multiple grade levels based on individual student needs, and educators should review and adapt all resources before implementing them.

Resources for Kindergarten through Grade Eight

Even the youngest students can become civically engaged! The following resources can help K-8 students get excited about civics.

Apprentice-level learning adventures geared at teaching kids ages four through eight about the U.S. government.

One-day workshops for students and advisors to focus on teamwork and building ideas for effective student governance.

Elementary schools are encouraged to apply for Civic Learning Awards and participate in the Judges in the Classroom Program. Lesson resources are also available for elementary students on the Digital Chalkboard.

A wide range of short articles on various topics in world history, American history, and government. Also includes a series of biographies on dozens of influential individuals.

Field trips designed for kindergarten through grade two (K-2) students focusing on fundamental principles of democracy.

Students can choose from a variety of games ranging in length from 0-30+ minutes on topics such as voting, arguing Supreme Court cases, and international diplomacy.

Interdisciplinary lesson resources that use literacy and mock trials to teach key principles of civics. Some lessons are created for students in grades four and five.

Series of lessons that teach about the electoral process and encourage citizenship in the classroom, school, home and community.
Rendell Center for Civics and Civic Engagement Literature-Based Mock Trials
Lesson plans focused on teaching the skills of civil discourse when discussing social justice issues, designed for a K-2 audience.

Resources for Grades Nine through Twelve

These resources are appropriate for students primarily in high school, although many can be adapted for grades 6-8.

Information about SOS initiatives to educate and engage young Californian's in the democratic process, including programs to pre-register to vote at age 16, High School Voter Education Weeks, California Student Mock Elections, and guidance for school administrators and teachers.

An online resource for studying democracy, designed for use by teachers, professors, and college and secondary students. Includes information on essential principles of democracy, a study guide for democracy, and comparative information on the study of freedom internationally.

Curriculum for high school teachers, including an action project, research and blogging, democracy in action, and infographics.

The Institute for Local Government's PYLG units focus on roles, responsibilities, and processes of local government.

Funded by the S.D. Bechtel, Jr. Foundation, the Action Civics initiative worked to civic awareness and engagement in 14 middle and high schools in the Sacramento region. This site includes resources to support professional development provided through the program and other tools to support civic learning. The initiative also developed resources for middle school students.

High school law course materials, Supreme Court of the United States in the Classroom program, and rule of law education curriculum.

Collection of documents that focus on specific issues in American civic history. Each collection has an introduction that provides necessary context and three sets of study questions. Each of the documents is annotated with footnotes that provide biographical information on document authors and identify obscure words, events, or individuals.

Supporting the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning

This page contains some of the strongest resources for incorporating each of the Six Proven Practices of Effective Civic Learning.

The California Courts recognize and celebrate public schools' efforts to engage students in civic learning through their annual Civic Learning Awards . Co-sponsored by Chief Justice Cantil-Sakauye. Seventy-five schools earned awards in 2020. Schools seeking to earn an award may also refer to this list of resources as they set up or enhance their civic learning programs.

Instruction in Government, History, Law, Democracy

Schools can offer courses on civics, government, history, and law, in an effort to encourage better-informed citizens. The below resources include vetted, easy-to-implement curricula to support these courses.

Current Events and Controversial Issues

Effective classroom discussions of current events and controversial issues can increase student interest in government. The below resources provide a variety of options for facilitating these types of engaging discussions.

Service-Learning

Service-learning opportunities provide ways for students and the community to come together to develop habits of community engagement. These resources can help educators facilitate projects, while also tying them back to the classroom.

Extracurricular Activities

Student-led volunteer projects that occur outside of the classroom can also teach skills in collaboration and civic participation. The below organizations provide resources and ongoing support for students, teachers, administrators, and families.

Student Participation in School Governance

Giving students a voice can also help increase understanding and appreciation of the intricacies of the democratic process as it also teaches key behaviors of citizenship. These organizations provide guidance and support for schools implementing a structure for student voice in school governance.

Simulations

Simulations allow students to simulate adult civic roles and offer a unique, deep civic learning experience. Some of these programs use role-playing games to simulate government, helping students participate in processes such as national elections.

Resources for Students

The below resources are especially helpful for students looking to become more civically engaged.

Student Institutes and Conferences

While not officially part of the Six Proven Practices, participation in institutes and conferences offer additional chances for students to engage first-hand in a way that supports overall civic engagement.

Programs to Support Student Engagement

The below organizations can help support students who seek to enhance civic learning and engagement on school campuses. In light of COVID-19, many of these organizations are providing resources to support civic engagement virtually.

Miscellaneous Tips, Skills, and Ideas

These resources can help students as they carry out their civic engagement projects. Resources include advice on writing professional emails, ideas for community service projects, and helpful checklists to guide projects from start to finish.

This list will grow over time. Have you come across any other helpful guides or tools directed specifically towards helping students carry out the day-to-day work of civic engagement projects? Please share them with the CDE at ssce@cde.ca.gov.

Reminders, guidelines, and samples to help students write a variety of professional emails.

Professional Learning Opportunities for Educators

The 2016 HSS Framework incorporates critical shifts for educators. These shifts include a focus on inquiry-based instruction through innovative teaching and learning practices. The HSS Framework guides educators as they design, implement, and maintain a coherent course of study to teach content; develop inquiry-based critical thinking skills; improve reading comprehension and expository writing ability; and promote an engaged and knowledgeable citizenry in history and the related social sciences.

The Budget Act of 2017 included an allocation of funds for high-quality professional learning and resources for HSS educators and administrators to implement the new framework. Through funding from the CDE, the Sacramento County Office of Education has developed a system of statewide and regional communities of practice to provide meaningful and targeted support in HSS for classroom teachers, paraprofessionals, and site administrators. Representing the four instructional shifts described in the HSS Framework, the Content, Literacy, Inquiry, and Citizenship (CLIC) Project develops and facilitates the many elements integral for successful implementation of the HSS Framework. As part of their work, the CLIC Project hosts a YouTube channel that contains videos to support educators and administrators as they implement the HSS Framework, including videos on fostering student advocacy and classroom approaches to civic learning .

Below is a list of additional professional learning institutes, courses, and other opportunities to support educators as they implement civic learning programs.

External Websites Dedicated to the State Seal of Civic Engagement

The websites listed below have been developed by California organizations that are supporting LEAs to implement the SSCE. These sites are being updated as new resources become available.

California History-Social Science Project Sites

Each of the below CHSSP sites has a variety of resources to support professional learning in civics.

Institutes

Coaching, Seminars, Training Videos, Toolkits

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

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Info and materials to help you with civic engagement activ

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

Educators, administrators, students, families, community members, and others are encouraged to use these resources to support civic engagement inside and outside the classroom, especially as students work to earn the California State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE). Please use the contact information at the bottom of the page if you have questions, or to learn more about the SSCE.

Distance Learning During COVID-19

Students can still be civically engaged, even in this new and rapidly changing educational landscape. Many of the resources listed on the tabs below can be adapted for distance learning, and some programs are already providing resources designed for a virtual environment. Additionally, the links below contain several resources specifically designed to teach civics through distance learning during the COVID-19 response.

The CHSSP provides History-Social Science (HSS) resources to support teachers engaged in distance learning and parents helping children learn at home, including a parent's guide to History-Social Science (HSS).

The Office of the Governor California Volunteers Program has special opportunities to get involved with the COVID-19 volunteer response.

This page contains comprehensive information about California's COVID-19 response, including ways to become involved in the effort.
CDE Resources to Support Distance Learning
This page aggregates guidance documents, webinars, and content-specific links to support distance learning in a variety of subjects.

This article, published in the Journal of Public Affairs in April 2019, details one professor's development and implementation of a civics project in an online American government course.

These free resources from iCivics include games and toolkits designed for educators and families to use for distance learning.

Street Law provides interactive curriculum and training for teaching young people about the law and government. This list has been updated to include at-home civics learning resources and strategies.

This growing list highlights organizations that are producing and elevating resources to support civic engagement through distance learning.

Foundational Documents for Civic Engagement

In 2013, Former State Superintendent of Public Instruction (SSPI), Tom Torlakson, introduced the Civics Education Initiative. This included a series of programs and resources geared toward revitalizing statewide civic education:

The following documents provide research, case studies, and policy recommendations for improving student civic engagement.

Research and Reports

Published in 2003 as part of a partnership between the Carnegie Corporation, the Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement, this document represented an effort to gather scholars and practitioners to determine the most effective, feasible civic education programs possible. The report serves as the foundation for several other documents in this collection, and marks the beginning of the current national push to improve civic education.

The result of a three-year state-led collaborative effort, the C3 Framework for Social Studies State Standards was developed for states to upgrade their social studies standards, and for local school districts, schools, teachers, and curriculum writers to strengthen their social studies programs. Its objectives are to: (a) enhance the rigor of the social studies disciplines; (b) build critical thinking, problem solving, and participatory skills to become engaged citizens; and (c) align academic programs to the Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts and Literacy in HSS.

This 2020 report was published in the Journal of Social Studies Research to discuss the role of emotion in citizenship and presents an argument for critical affective literacy in civic education classrooms. The report also offers instructional strategies for handling the political emotions of students.

This article outlines the importance of schools promoting equity, social justice, and civic engagement in schools. It also provides an explanation of how the State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE), the Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) process, Multi-Tiered System of Supports and related efforts to incorporate civic engagement standards into the California School Dashboard can help equitable civic empowerment for all students.

This report, published by Educational Testing Service in the leadup to the 2012 presidential election, analyzes how gaps in educational attainment and income indicate fault lines in our democracy by predicting voting and civic engagement rates. The report includes specific data on young adults' civic engagement compared to their income and education, and makes recommendations for schools, colleges, and adult education.

This publication provides several key strategies for advancing civic education system wide based on experiences promoting civic learning and engagement in Chicago, Illinois and Riverside, California.

This 2011 report builds and expands on the findings of the 2003 Civic Mission of Schools. The report updates research on the benefits of civic learning, outlines the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning, and makes policy recommendations for improving civic outcomes.

This article focuses on the idea of "lived civics" as a frame for more effective civic learning by explicitly addressing the interests and experiences of young people through the context of best practices in teaching civics. The article offers ideas on reframing civics content and instruction, and includes a review of contemporary civics literature, principles of lived civics, and reflections for educators to consider.

This study of civic learning in California school districts draws upon LCAPs and district mission statements to assess the degree to which districts are focused on and devoting resources to civic priorities. It provides several key findings based upon the data, and makes recommendations for supporting the SSCE and moving forward with a systemic commitment to, and investment in, civic learning.

This report, published in 2017, adds several complementary streams of research and practice to the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning. Ideas for enhancing civic education with news media literacy education, action civics, social and emotional learning, and school climate reform are included, as well as two case studies of states improving their civic learning plans.
Revitalizing K-12 Civic Learning In California: A Blueprint For Action (PDF)
This report, by the California Task Force on K-12 Civic Learning, was published in August 2014 as a partnership between former SSPI Tom Torlakson and Supreme Court Chief Justice Tani G. Cantil-Sakauye. The report offers system-wide recommendations to improve civic learning, including revising the HSS Content Standards and Framework and improving professional learning opportunities.

Published in 2014 by the Education Commission of States, this guidebook is a resource for teachers, administrators, policymakers, and others who want to put the Six Proven Practices in place but are not sure where to begin. The document highlights research and provides practical suggestions for implementing each practice.

Council is a sharing method, focused on empathy and active listening. It can be effective especially when working on topics such as personal development and strengthening of group dynamics.

This 2013 conference, funded by the Bechtel Foundation, brought together several experts on youth civic development and citizenship education in order to promote civic development and participation for youth from all backgrounds. The report outlines recommendations regarding improving citizenship education nationwide.

General, Comprehensive Resources

These organizations offer a variety of programs to support civic learning at all levels and for a variety of audiences.

Webinars, podcasts, and curriculum to support civic engagement from a global perspective.

Series of civics programs, community partnership opportunities, lesson resources, and other publications.

Extensive array of lesson resources including Bill of Rights in Action, Civics On Call, civic scenarios and simulations, and more.

Wide variety of resources for educators , school leaders, students and families that address racism, anti-semitism, and prejudice throughout history. Key resources include curriculum, strategies, webinars, Teaching with Current Events , the Choosing to Participate Toolkit , and Fostering Civil Discourse: How do We Talk about Issues that Matter .

Classroom activities and lessons, voter registration information, teacher training and resources, school and district resources, and research on civic education.

Program geared towards helping civics educators implement comprehensive civics education programs. Includes lesson plans, an E-Congress, mock elections, research, current events discussion support, and teacher training.

Searchable Resource Databases

These sites include searchable resource databases that provide information for educators, administrators, families, and students.

Database of resources focused on career and technical education lessons. Includes primary sources, lesson plans, strategies, and resources to support Project Based Learning.

Articles, reports, lesson plans and other resources that support civic engagement.

Searchable database of resources dedicated to civic engagement. Search by content or by standard, or play games, check out curriculum units, or plan a civics scope and sequence. They also offer resources to support distance learning.

The National Endowment for the Humanities provides this resource that contains lesson plans, curricula, and full teacher's guides for grades K-12. Search by topic and grade level. Resources are HSS-focused, but also include literature, language arts, arts and culture.

Database focused on lessons for civics, government, and law-related education for K-12 students. Includes simulations, discussions, mock trials, case studies, and other research-based materials. Filter lessons by grade level, lesson topic, strategy, or standard.

Resources Targeted by Grade Level or Function

Below are recommended resources organized by grade level (kindergarten through grade eight [K-8], and grades nine through twelve [9-12]). Please keep in mind that many resources can span multiple grade levels based on individual student needs, and educators should review and adapt all resources before implementing them.

Resources for Kindergarten through Grade Eight

Even the youngest students can become civically engaged! The following resources can help K-8 students get excited about civics.

Apprentice-level learning adventures geared at teaching kids ages four through eight about the U.S. government.

One-day workshops for students and advisors to focus on teamwork and building ideas for effective student governance.

Elementary schools are encouraged to apply for Civic Learning Awards and participate in the Judges in the Classroom Program. Lesson resources are also available for elementary students on the Digital Chalkboard.

A wide range of short articles on various topics in world history, American history, and government. Also includes a series of biographies on dozens of influential individuals.

Field trips designed for kindergarten through grade two (K-2) students focusing on fundamental principles of democracy.

Students can choose from a variety of games ranging in length from 0-30+ minutes on topics such as voting, arguing Supreme Court cases, and international diplomacy.

Interdisciplinary lesson resources that use literacy and mock trials to teach key principles of civics. Some lessons are created for students in grades four and five.

Series of lessons that teach about the electoral process and encourage citizenship in the classroom, school, home and community.
Rendell Center for Civics and Civic Engagement Literature-Based Mock Trials
Lesson plans focused on teaching the skills of civil discourse when discussing social justice issues, designed for a K-2 audience.

Resources for Grades Nine through Twelve

These resources are appropriate for students primarily in high school, although many can be adapted for grades 6-8.

Information about SOS initiatives to educate and engage young Californian's in the democratic process, including programs to pre-register to vote at age 16, High School Voter Education Weeks, California Student Mock Elections, and guidance for school administrators and teachers.

An online resource for studying democracy, designed for use by teachers, professors, and college and secondary students. Includes information on essential principles of democracy, a study guide for democracy, and comparative information on the study of freedom internationally.

Curriculum for high school teachers, including an action project, research and blogging, democracy in action, and infographics.

The Institute for Local Government's PYLG units focus on roles, responsibilities, and processes of local government.

Funded by the S.D. Bechtel, Jr. Foundation, the Action Civics initiative worked to civic awareness and engagement in 14 middle and high schools in the Sacramento region. This site includes resources to support professional development provided through the program and other tools to support civic learning. The initiative also developed resources for middle school students.

High school law course materials, Supreme Court of the United States in the Classroom program, and rule of law education curriculum.

Collection of documents that focus on specific issues in American civic history. Each collection has an introduction that provides necessary context and three sets of study questions. Each of the documents is annotated with footnotes that provide biographical information on document authors and identify obscure words, events, or individuals.

Supporting the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning

This page contains some of the strongest resources for incorporating each of the Six Proven Practices of Effective Civic Learning.

The California Courts recognize and celebrate public schools' efforts to engage students in civic learning through their annual Civic Learning Awards . Co-sponsored by Chief Justice Cantil-Sakauye. Seventy-five schools earned awards in 2020. Schools seeking to earn an award may also refer to this list of resources as they set up or enhance their civic learning programs.

Instruction in Government, History, Law, Democracy

Schools can offer courses on civics, government, history, and law, in an effort to encourage better-informed citizens. The below resources include vetted, easy-to-implement curricula to support these courses.

Current Events and Controversial Issues

Effective classroom discussions of current events and controversial issues can increase student interest in government. The below resources provide a variety of options for facilitating these types of engaging discussions.

Service-Learning

Service-learning opportunities provide ways for students and the community to come together to develop habits of community engagement. These resources can help educators facilitate projects, while also tying them back to the classroom.

Extracurricular Activities

Student-led volunteer projects that occur outside of the classroom can also teach skills in collaboration and civic participation. The below organizations provide resources and ongoing support for students, teachers, administrators, and families.

Student Participation in School Governance

Giving students a voice can also help increase understanding and appreciation of the intricacies of the democratic process as it also teaches key behaviors of citizenship. These organizations provide guidance and support for schools implementing a structure for student voice in school governance.

Simulations

Simulations allow students to simulate adult civic roles and offer a unique, deep civic learning experience. Some of these programs use role-playing games to simulate government, helping students participate in processes such as national elections.

Resources for Students

The below resources are especially helpful for students looking to become more civically engaged.

Student Institutes and Conferences

While not officially part of the Six Proven Practices, participation in institutes and conferences offer additional chances for students to engage first-hand in a way that supports overall civic engagement.

Programs to Support Student Engagement

The below organizations can help support students who seek to enhance civic learning and engagement on school campuses. In light of COVID-19, many of these organizations are providing resources to support civic engagement virtually.

Miscellaneous Tips, Skills, and Ideas

These resources can help students as they carry out their civic engagement projects. Resources include advice on writing professional emails, ideas for community service projects, and helpful checklists to guide projects from start to finish.

This list will grow over time. Have you come across any other helpful guides or tools directed specifically towards helping students carry out the day-to-day work of civic engagement projects? Please share them with the CDE at ssce@cde.ca.gov.

Reminders, guidelines, and samples to help students write a variety of professional emails.

Professional Learning Opportunities for Educators

The 2016 HSS Framework incorporates critical shifts for educators. These shifts include a focus on inquiry-based instruction through innovative teaching and learning practices. The HSS Framework guides educators as they design, implement, and maintain a coherent course of study to teach content; develop inquiry-based critical thinking skills; improve reading comprehension and expository writing ability; and promote an engaged and knowledgeable citizenry in history and the related social sciences.

The Budget Act of 2017 included an allocation of funds for high-quality professional learning and resources for HSS educators and administrators to implement the new framework. Through funding from the CDE, the Sacramento County Office of Education has developed a system of statewide and regional communities of practice to provide meaningful and targeted support in HSS for classroom teachers, paraprofessionals, and site administrators. Representing the four instructional shifts described in the HSS Framework, the Content, Literacy, Inquiry, and Citizenship (CLIC) Project develops and facilitates the many elements integral for successful implementation of the HSS Framework. As part of their work, the CLIC Project hosts a YouTube channel that contains videos to support educators and administrators as they implement the HSS Framework, including videos on fostering student advocacy and classroom approaches to civic learning .

Below is a list of additional professional learning institutes, courses, and other opportunities to support educators as they implement civic learning programs.

External Websites Dedicated to the State Seal of Civic Engagement

The websites listed below have been developed by California organizations that are supporting LEAs to implement the SSCE. These sites are being updated as new resources become available.

California History-Social Science Project Sites

Each of the below CHSSP sites has a variety of resources to support professional learning in civics.

Institutes

Coaching, Seminars, Training Videos, Toolkits

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

# data[].attributes.body
Info and materials to help you with civic engagement a

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

Educators, administrators, students, families, community members, and others are encouraged to use these resources to support civic engagement inside and outside the classroom, especially as students work to earn the California State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE). Please use the contact information at the bottom of the page if you have questions, or to learn more about the SSCE.

Distance Learning During COVID-19

Students can still be civically engaged, even in this new and rapidly changing educational landscape. Many of the resources listed on the tabs below can be adapted for distance learning, and some programs are already providing resources designed for a virtual environment. Additionally, the links below contain several resources specifically designed to teach civics through distance learning during the COVID-19 response.

The CHSSP provides History-Social Science (HSS) resources to support teachers engaged in distance learning and parents helping children learn at home, including a parent's guide to History-Social Science (HSS).

The Office of the Governor California Volunteers Program has special opportunities to get involved with the COVID-19 volunteer response.

This page contains comprehensive information about California's COVID-19 response, including ways to become involved in the effort.
CDE Resources to Support Distance Learning
This page aggregates guidance documents, webinars, and content-specific links to support distance learning in a variety of subjects.

This article, published in the Journal of Public Affairs in April 2019, details one professor's development and implementation of a civics project in an online American government course.

These free resources from iCivics include games and toolkits designed for educators and families to use for distance learning.

Street Law provides interactive curriculum and training for teaching young people about the law and government. This list has been updated to include at-home civics learning resources and strategies.

This growing list highlights organizations that are producing and elevating resources to support civic engagement through distance learning.

Foundational Documents for Civic Engagement

In 2013, Former State Superintendent of Public Instruction (SSPI), Tom Torlakson, introduced the Civics Education Initiative. This included a series of programs and resources geared toward revitalizing statewide civic education:

The following documents provide research, case studies, and policy recommendations for improving student civic engagement.

Research and Reports

Published in 2003 as part of a partnership between the Carnegie Corporation, the Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement, this document represented an effort to gather scholars and practitioners to determine the most effective, feasible civic education programs possible. The report serves as the foundation for several other documents in this collection, and marks the beginning of the current national push to improve civic education.

The result of a three-year state-led collaborative effort, the C3 Framework for Social Studies State Standards was developed for states to upgrade their social studies standards, and for local school districts, schools, teachers, and curriculum writers to strengthen their social studies programs. Its objectives are to: (a) enhance the rigor of the social studies disciplines; (b) build critical thinking, problem solving, and participatory skills to become engaged citizens; and (c) align academic programs to the Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts and Literacy in HSS.

This 2020 report was published in the Journal of Social Studies Research to discuss the role of emotion in citizenship and presents an argument for critical affective literacy in civic education classrooms. The report also offers instructional strategies for handling the political emotions of students.

This article outlines the importance of schools promoting equity, social justice, and civic engagement in schools. It also provides an explanation of how the State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE), the Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) process, Multi-Tiered System of Supports and related efforts to incorporate civic engagement standards into the California School Dashboard can help equitable civic empowerment for all students.

This report, published by Educational Testing Service in the leadup to the 2012 presidential election, analyzes how gaps in educational attainment and income indicate fault lines in our democracy by predicting voting and civic engagement rates. The report includes specific data on young adults' civic engagement compared to their income and education, and makes recommendations for schools, colleges, and adult education.

This publication provides several key strategies for advancing civic education system wide based on experiences promoting civic learning and engagement in Chicago, Illinois and Riverside, California.

This 2011 report builds and expands on the findings of the 2003 Civic Mission of Schools. The report updates research on the benefits of civic learning, outlines the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning, and makes policy recommendations for improving civic outcomes.

This article focuses on the idea of "lived civics" as a frame for more effective civic learning by explicitly addressing the interests and experiences of young people through the context of best practices in teaching civics. The article offers ideas on reframing civics content and instruction, and includes a review of contemporary civics literature, principles of lived civics, and reflections for educators to consider.

This study of civic learning in California school districts draws upon LCAPs and district mission statements to assess the degree to which districts are focused on and devoting resources to civic priorities. It provides several key findings based upon the data, and makes recommendations for supporting the SSCE and moving forward with a systemic commitment to, and investment in, civic learning.

This report, published in 2017, adds several complementary streams of research and practice to the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning. Ideas for enhancing civic education with news media literacy education, action civics, social and emotional learning, and school climate reform are included, as well as two case studies of states improving their civic learning plans.
Revitalizing K-12 Civic Learning In California: A Blueprint For Action (PDF)
This report, by the California Task Force on K-12 Civic Learning, was published in August 2014 as a partnership between former SSPI Tom Torlakson and Supreme Court Chief Justice Tani G. Cantil-Sakauye. The report offers system-wide recommendations to improve civic learning, including revising the HSS Content Standards and Framework and improving professional learning opportunities.

Published in 2014 by the Education Commission of States, this guidebook is a resource for teachers, administrators, policymakers, and others who want to put the Six Proven Practices in place but are not sure where to begin. The document highlights research and provides practical suggestions for implementing each practice.

Council is a sharing method, focused on empathy and active listening. It can be effective especially when working on topics such as personal development and strengthening of group dynamics.

This 2013 conference, funded by the Bechtel Foundation, brought together several experts on youth civic development and citizenship education in order to promote civic development and participation for youth from all backgrounds. The report outlines recommendations regarding improving citizenship education nationwide.

General, Comprehensive Resources

These organizations offer a variety of programs to support civic learning at all levels and for a variety of audiences.

Webinars, podcasts, and curriculum to support civic engagement from a global perspective.

Series of civics programs, community partnership opportunities, lesson resources, and other publications.

Extensive array of lesson resources including Bill of Rights in Action, Civics On Call, civic scenarios and simulations, and more.

Wide variety of resources for educators , school leaders, students and families that address racism, anti-semitism, and prejudice throughout history. Key resources include curriculum, strategies, webinars, Teaching with Current Events , the Choosing to Participate Toolkit , and Fostering Civil Discourse: How do We Talk about Issues that Matter .

Classroom activities and lessons, voter registration information, teacher training and resources, school and district resources, and research on civic education.

Program geared towards helping civics educators implement comprehensive civics education programs. Includes lesson plans, an E-Congress, mock elections, research, current events discussion support, and teacher training.

Searchable Resource Databases

These sites include searchable resource databases that provide information for educators, administrators, families, and students.

Database of resources focused on career and technical education lessons. Includes primary sources, lesson plans, strategies, and resources to support Project Based Learning.

Articles, reports, lesson plans and other resources that support civic engagement.

Searchable database of resources dedicated to civic engagement. Search by content or by standard, or play games, check out curriculum units, or plan a civics scope and sequence. They also offer resources to support distance learning.

The National Endowment for the Humanities provides this resource that contains lesson plans, curricula, and full teacher's guides for grades K-12. Search by topic and grade level. Resources are HSS-focused, but also include literature, language arts, arts and culture.

Database focused on lessons for civics, government, and law-related education for K-12 students. Includes simulations, discussions, mock trials, case studies, and other research-based materials. Filter lessons by grade level, lesson topic, strategy, or standard.

Resources Targeted by Grade Level or Function

Below are recommended resources organized by grade level (kindergarten through grade eight [K-8], and grades nine through twelve [9-12]). Please keep in mind that many resources can span multiple grade levels based on individual student needs, and educators should review and adapt all resources before implementing them.

Resources for Kindergarten through Grade Eight

Even the youngest students can become civically engaged! The following resources can help K-8 students get excited about civics.

Apprentice-level learning adventures geared at teaching kids ages four through eight about the U.S. government.

One-day workshops for students and advisors to focus on teamwork and building ideas for effective student governance.

Elementary schools are encouraged to apply for Civic Learning Awards and participate in the Judges in the Classroom Program. Lesson resources are also available for elementary students on the Digital Chalkboard.

A wide range of short articles on various topics in world history, American history, and government. Also includes a series of biographies on dozens of influential individuals.

Field trips designed for kindergarten through grade two (K-2) students focusing on fundamental principles of democracy.

Students can choose from a variety of games ranging in length from 0-30+ minutes on topics such as voting, arguing Supreme Court cases, and international diplomacy.

Interdisciplinary lesson resources that use literacy and mock trials to teach key principles of civics. Some lessons are created for students in grades four and five.

Series of lessons that teach about the electoral process and encourage citizenship in the classroom, school, home and community.
Rendell Center for Civics and Civic Engagement Literature-Based Mock Trials
Lesson plans focused on teaching the skills of civil discourse when discussing social justice issues, designed for a K-2 audience.

Resources for Grades Nine through Twelve

These resources are appropriate for students primarily in high school, although many can be adapted for grades 6-8.

Information about SOS initiatives to educate and engage young Californian's in the democratic process, including programs to pre-register to vote at age 16, High School Voter Education Weeks, California Student Mock Elections, and guidance for school administrators and teachers.

An online resource for studying democracy, designed for use by teachers, professors, and college and secondary students. Includes information on essential principles of democracy, a study guide for democracy, and comparative information on the study of freedom internationally.

Curriculum for high school teachers, including an action project, research and blogging, democracy in action, and infographics.

The Institute for Local Government's PYLG units focus on roles, responsibilities, and processes of local government.

Funded by the S.D. Bechtel, Jr. Foundation, the Action Civics initiative worked to civic awareness and engagement in 14 middle and high schools in the Sacramento region. This site includes resources to support professional development provided through the program and other tools to support civic learning. The initiative also developed resources for middle school students.

High school law course materials, Supreme Court of the United States in the Classroom program, and rule of law education curriculum.

Collection of documents that focus on specific issues in American civic history. Each collection has an introduction that provides necessary context and three sets of study questions. Each of the documents is annotated with footnotes that provide biographical information on document authors and identify obscure words, events, or individuals.

Supporting the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning

This page contains some of the strongest resources for incorporating each of the Six Proven Practices of Effective Civic Learning.

The California Courts recognize and celebrate public schools' efforts to engage students in civic learning through their annual Civic Learning Awards . Co-sponsored by Chief Justice Cantil-Sakauye. Seventy-five schools earned awards in 2020. Schools seeking to earn an award may also refer to this list of resources as they set up or enhance their civic learning programs.

Instruction in Government, History, Law, Democracy

Schools can offer courses on civics, government, history, and law, in an effort to encourage better-informed citizens. The below resources include vetted, easy-to-implement curricula to support these courses.

Current Events and Controversial Issues

Effective classroom discussions of current events and controversial issues can increase student interest in government. The below resources provide a variety of options for facilitating these types of engaging discussions.

Service-Learning

Service-learning opportunities provide ways for students and the community to come together to develop habits of community engagement. These resources can help educators facilitate projects, while also tying them back to the classroom.

Extracurricular Activities

Student-led volunteer projects that occur outside of the classroom can also teach skills in collaboration and civic participation. The below organizations provide resources and ongoing support for students, teachers, administrators, and families.

Student Participation in School Governance

Giving students a voice can also help increase understanding and appreciation of the intricacies of the democratic process as it also teaches key behaviors of citizenship. These organizations provide guidance and support for schools implementing a structure for student voice in school governance.

Simulations

Simulations allow students to simulate adult civic roles and offer a unique, deep civic learning experience. Some of these programs use role-playing games to simulate government, helping students participate in processes such as national elections.

Resources for Students

The below resources are especially helpful for students looking to become more civically engaged.

Student Institutes and Conferences

While not officially part of the Six Proven Practices, participation in institutes and conferences offer additional chances for students to engage first-hand in a way that supports overall civic engagement.

Programs to Support Student Engagement

The below organizations can help support students who seek to enhance civic learning and engagement on school campuses. In light of COVID-19, many of these organizations are providing resources to support civic engagement virtually.

Miscellaneous Tips, Skills, and Ideas

These resources can help students as they carry out their civic engagement projects. Resources include advice on writing professional emails, ideas for community service projects, and helpful checklists to guide projects from start to finish.

This list will grow over time. Have you come across any other helpful guides or tools directed specifically towards helping students carry out the day-to-day work of civic engagement projects? Please share them with the CDE at ssce@cde.ca.gov.

Reminders, guidelines, and samples to help students write a variety of professional emails.

Professional Learning Opportunities for Educators

The 2016 HSS Framework incorporates critical shifts for educators. These shifts include a focus on inquiry-based instruction through innovative teaching and learning practices. The HSS Framework guides educators as they design, implement, and maintain a coherent course of study to teach content; develop inquiry-based critical thinking skills; improve reading comprehension and expository writing ability; and promote an engaged and knowledgeable citizenry in history and the related social sciences.

The Budget Act of 2017 included an allocation of funds for high-quality professional learning and resources for HSS educators and administrators to implement the new framework. Through funding from the CDE, the Sacramento County Office of Education has developed a system of statewide and regional communities of practice to provide meaningful and targeted support in HSS for classroom teachers, paraprofessionals, and site administrators. Representing the four instructional shifts described in the HSS Framework, the Content, Literacy, Inquiry, and Citizenship (CLIC) Project develops and facilitates the many elements integral for successful implementation of the HSS Framework. As part of their work, the CLIC Project hosts a YouTube channel that contains videos to support educators and administrators as they implement the HSS Framework, including videos on fostering student advocacy and classroom approaches to civic learning .

Below is a list of additional professional learning institutes, courses, and other opportunities to support educators as they implement civic learning programs.

External Websites Dedicated to the State Seal of Civic Engagement

The websites listed below have been developed by California organizations that are supporting LEAs to implement the SSCE. These sites are being updated as new resources become available.

California History-Social Science Project Sites

Each of the below CHSSP sites has a variety of resources to support professional learning in civics.

Institutes

Coaching, Seminars, Training Videos, Toolkits

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

# data[].attributes.body
Info and materials to help you with civic engagement

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

Educators, administrators, students, families, community members, and others are encouraged to use these resources to support civic engagement inside and outside the classroom, especially as students work to earn the California State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE). Please use the contact information at the bottom of the page if you have questions, or to learn more about the SSCE.

Distance Learning During COVID-19

Students can still be civically engaged, even in this new and rapidly changing educational landscape. Many of the resources listed on the tabs below can be adapted for distance learning, and some programs are already providing resources designed for a virtual environment. Additionally, the links below contain several resources specifically designed to teach civics through distance learning during the COVID-19 response.

The CHSSP provides History-Social Science (HSS) resources to support teachers engaged in distance learning and parents helping children learn at home, including a parent's guide to History-Social Science (HSS).

The Office of the Governor California Volunteers Program has special opportunities to get involved with the COVID-19 volunteer response.

This page contains comprehensive information about California's COVID-19 response, including ways to become involved in the effort.
CDE Resources to Support Distance Learning
This page aggregates guidance documents, webinars, and content-specific links to support distance learning in a variety of subjects.

This article, published in the Journal of Public Affairs in April 2019, details one professor's development and implementation of a civics project in an online American government course.

These free resources from iCivics include games and toolkits designed for educators and families to use for distance learning.

Street Law provides interactive curriculum and training for teaching young people about the law and government. This list has been updated to include at-home civics learning resources and strategies.

This growing list highlights organizations that are producing and elevating resources to support civic engagement through distance learning.

Foundational Documents for Civic Engagement

In 2013, Former State Superintendent of Public Instruction (SSPI), Tom Torlakson, introduced the Civics Education Initiative. This included a series of programs and resources geared toward revitalizing statewide civic education:

The following documents provide research, case studies, and policy recommendations for improving student civic engagement.

Research and Reports

Published in 2003 as part of a partnership between the Carnegie Corporation, the Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement, this document represented an effort to gather scholars and practitioners to determine the most effective, feasible civic education programs possible. The report serves as the foundation for several other documents in this collection, and marks the beginning of the current national push to improve civic education.

The result of a three-year state-led collaborative effort, the C3 Framework for Social Studies State Standards was developed for states to upgrade their social studies standards, and for local school districts, schools, teachers, and curriculum writers to strengthen their social studies programs. Its objectives are to: (a) enhance the rigor of the social studies disciplines; (b) build critical thinking, problem solving, and participatory skills to become engaged citizens; and (c) align academic programs to the Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts and Literacy in HSS.

This 2020 report was published in the Journal of Social Studies Research to discuss the role of emotion in citizenship and presents an argument for critical affective literacy in civic education classrooms. The report also offers instructional strategies for handling the political emotions of students.

This article outlines the importance of schools promoting equity, social justice, and civic engagement in schools. It also provides an explanation of how the State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE), the Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) process, Multi-Tiered System of Supports and related efforts to incorporate civic engagement standards into the California School Dashboard can help equitable civic empowerment for all students.

This report, published by Educational Testing Service in the leadup to the 2012 presidential election, analyzes how gaps in educational attainment and income indicate fault lines in our democracy by predicting voting and civic engagement rates. The report includes specific data on young adults' civic engagement compared to their income and education, and makes recommendations for schools, colleges, and adult education.

This publication provides several key strategies for advancing civic education system wide based on experiences promoting civic learning and engagement in Chicago, Illinois and Riverside, California.

This 2011 report builds and expands on the findings of the 2003 Civic Mission of Schools. The report updates research on the benefits of civic learning, outlines the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning, and makes policy recommendations for improving civic outcomes.

This article focuses on the idea of "lived civics" as a frame for more effective civic learning by explicitly addressing the interests and experiences of young people through the context of best practices in teaching civics. The article offers ideas on reframing civics content and instruction, and includes a review of contemporary civics literature, principles of lived civics, and reflections for educators to consider.

This study of civic learning in California school districts draws upon LCAPs and district mission statements to assess the degree to which districts are focused on and devoting resources to civic priorities. It provides several key findings based upon the data, and makes recommendations for supporting the SSCE and moving forward with a systemic commitment to, and investment in, civic learning.

This report, published in 2017, adds several complementary streams of research and practice to the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning. Ideas for enhancing civic education with news media literacy education, action civics, social and emotional learning, and school climate reform are included, as well as two case studies of states improving their civic learning plans.
Revitalizing K-12 Civic Learning In California: A Blueprint For Action (PDF)
This report, by the California Task Force on K-12 Civic Learning, was published in August 2014 as a partnership between former SSPI Tom Torlakson and Supreme Court Chief Justice Tani G. Cantil-Sakauye. The report offers system-wide recommendations to improve civic learning, including revising the HSS Content Standards and Framework and improving professional learning opportunities.

Published in 2014 by the Education Commission of States, this guidebook is a resource for teachers, administrators, policymakers, and others who want to put the Six Proven Practices in place but are not sure where to begin. The document highlights research and provides practical suggestions for implementing each practice.

Council is a sharing method, focused on empathy and active listening. It can be effective especially when working on topics such as personal development and strengthening of group dynamics.

This 2013 conference, funded by the Bechtel Foundation, brought together several experts on youth civic development and citizenship education in order to promote civic development and participation for youth from all backgrounds. The report outlines recommendations regarding improving citizenship education nationwide.

General, Comprehensive Resources

These organizations offer a variety of programs to support civic learning at all levels and for a variety of audiences.

Webinars, podcasts, and curriculum to support civic engagement from a global perspective.

Series of civics programs, community partnership opportunities, lesson resources, and other publications.

Extensive array of lesson resources including Bill of Rights in Action, Civics On Call, civic scenarios and simulations, and more.

Wide variety of resources for educators , school leaders, students and families that address racism, anti-semitism, and prejudice throughout history. Key resources include curriculum, strategies, webinars, Teaching with Current Events , the Choosing to Participate Toolkit , and Fostering Civil Discourse: How do We Talk about Issues that Matter .

Classroom activities and lessons, voter registration information, teacher training and resources, school and district resources, and research on civic education.

Program geared towards helping civics educators implement comprehensive civics education programs. Includes lesson plans, an E-Congress, mock elections, research, current events discussion support, and teacher training.

Searchable Resource Databases

These sites include searchable resource databases that provide information for educators, administrators, families, and students.

Database of resources focused on career and technical education lessons. Includes primary sources, lesson plans, strategies, and resources to support Project Based Learning.

Articles, reports, lesson plans and other resources that support civic engagement.

Searchable database of resources dedicated to civic engagement. Search by content or by standard, or play games, check out curriculum units, or plan a civics scope and sequence. They also offer resources to support distance learning.

The National Endowment for the Humanities provides this resource that contains lesson plans, curricula, and full teacher's guides for grades K-12. Search by topic and grade level. Resources are HSS-focused, but also include literature, language arts, arts and culture.

Database focused on lessons for civics, government, and law-related education for K-12 students. Includes simulations, discussions, mock trials, case studies, and other research-based materials. Filter lessons by grade level, lesson topic, strategy, or standard.

Resources Targeted by Grade Level or Function

Below are recommended resources organized by grade level (kindergarten through grade eight [K-8], and grades nine through twelve [9-12]). Please keep in mind that many resources can span multiple grade levels based on individual student needs, and educators should review and adapt all resources before implementing them.

Resources for Kindergarten through Grade Eight

Even the youngest students can become civically engaged! The following resources can help K-8 students get excited about civics.

Apprentice-level learning adventures geared at teaching kids ages four through eight about the U.S. government.

One-day workshops for students and advisors to focus on teamwork and building ideas for effective student governance.

Elementary schools are encouraged to apply for Civic Learning Awards and participate in the Judges in the Classroom Program. Lesson resources are also available for elementary students on the Digital Chalkboard.

A wide range of short articles on various topics in world history, American history, and government. Also includes a series of biographies on dozens of influential individuals.

Field trips designed for kindergarten through grade two (K-2) students focusing on fundamental principles of democracy.

Students can choose from a variety of games ranging in length from 0-30+ minutes on topics such as voting, arguing Supreme Court cases, and international diplomacy.

Interdisciplinary lesson resources that use literacy and mock trials to teach key principles of civics. Some lessons are created for students in grades four and five.

Series of lessons that teach about the electoral process and encourage citizenship in the classroom, school, home and community.
Rendell Center for Civics and Civic Engagement Literature-Based Mock Trials
Lesson plans focused on teaching the skills of civil discourse when discussing social justice issues, designed for a K-2 audience.

Resources for Grades Nine through Twelve

These resources are appropriate for students primarily in high school, although many can be adapted for grades 6-8.

Information about SOS initiatives to educate and engage young Californian's in the democratic process, including programs to pre-register to vote at age 16, High School Voter Education Weeks, California Student Mock Elections, and guidance for school administrators and teachers.

An online resource for studying democracy, designed for use by teachers, professors, and college and secondary students. Includes information on essential principles of democracy, a study guide for democracy, and comparative information on the study of freedom internationally.

Curriculum for high school teachers, including an action project, research and blogging, democracy in action, and infographics.

The Institute for Local Government's PYLG units focus on roles, responsibilities, and processes of local government.

Funded by the S.D. Bechtel, Jr. Foundation, the Action Civics initiative worked to civic awareness and engagement in 14 middle and high schools in the Sacramento region. This site includes resources to support professional development provided through the program and other tools to support civic learning. The initiative also developed resources for middle school students.

High school law course materials, Supreme Court of the United States in the Classroom program, and rule of law education curriculum.

Collection of documents that focus on specific issues in American civic history. Each collection has an introduction that provides necessary context and three sets of study questions. Each of the documents is annotated with footnotes that provide biographical information on document authors and identify obscure words, events, or individuals.

Supporting the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning

This page contains some of the strongest resources for incorporating each of the Six Proven Practices of Effective Civic Learning.

The California Courts recognize and celebrate public schools' efforts to engage students in civic learning through their annual Civic Learning Awards . Co-sponsored by Chief Justice Cantil-Sakauye. Seventy-five schools earned awards in 2020. Schools seeking to earn an award may also refer to this list of resources as they set up or enhance their civic learning programs.

Instruction in Government, History, Law, Democracy

Schools can offer courses on civics, government, history, and law, in an effort to encourage better-informed citizens. The below resources include vetted, easy-to-implement curricula to support these courses.

Current Events and Controversial Issues

Effective classroom discussions of current events and controversial issues can increase student interest in government. The below resources provide a variety of options for facilitating these types of engaging discussions.

Service-Learning

Service-learning opportunities provide ways for students and the community to come together to develop habits of community engagement. These resources can help educators facilitate projects, while also tying them back to the classroom.

Extracurricular Activities

Student-led volunteer projects that occur outside of the classroom can also teach skills in collaboration and civic participation. The below organizations provide resources and ongoing support for students, teachers, administrators, and families.

Student Participation in School Governance

Giving students a voice can also help increase understanding and appreciation of the intricacies of the democratic process as it also teaches key behaviors of citizenship. These organizations provide guidance and support for schools implementing a structure for student voice in school governance.

Simulations

Simulations allow students to simulate adult civic roles and offer a unique, deep civic learning experience. Some of these programs use role-playing games to simulate government, helping students participate in processes such as national elections.

Resources for Students

The below resources are especially helpful for students looking to become more civically engaged.

Student Institutes and Conferences

While not officially part of the Six Proven Practices, participation in institutes and conferences offer additional chances for students to engage first-hand in a way that supports overall civic engagement.

Programs to Support Student Engagement

The below organizations can help support students who seek to enhance civic learning and engagement on school campuses. In light of COVID-19, many of these organizations are providing resources to support civic engagement virtually.

Miscellaneous Tips, Skills, and Ideas

These resources can help students as they carry out their civic engagement projects. Resources include advice on writing professional emails, ideas for community service projects, and helpful checklists to guide projects from start to finish.

This list will grow over time. Have you come across any other helpful guides or tools directed specifically towards helping students carry out the day-to-day work of civic engagement projects? Please share them with the CDE at ssce@cde.ca.gov.

Reminders, guidelines, and samples to help students write a variety of professional emails.

Professional Learning Opportunities for Educators

The 2016 HSS Framework incorporates critical shifts for educators. These shifts include a focus on inquiry-based instruction through innovative teaching and learning practices. The HSS Framework guides educators as they design, implement, and maintain a coherent course of study to teach content; develop inquiry-based critical thinking skills; improve reading comprehension and expository writing ability; and promote an engaged and knowledgeable citizenry in history and the related social sciences.

The Budget Act of 2017 included an allocation of funds for high-quality professional learning and resources for HSS educators and administrators to implement the new framework. Through funding from the CDE, the Sacramento County Office of Education has developed a system of statewide and regional communities of practice to provide meaningful and targeted support in HSS for classroom teachers, paraprofessionals, and site administrators. Representing the four instructional shifts described in the HSS Framework, the Content, Literacy, Inquiry, and Citizenship (CLIC) Project develops and facilitates the many elements integral for successful implementation of the HSS Framework. As part of their work, the CLIC Project hosts a YouTube channel that contains videos to support educators and administrators as they implement the HSS Framework, including videos on fostering student advocacy and classroom approaches to civic learning .

Below is a list of additional professional learning institutes, courses, and other opportunities to support educators as they implement civic learning programs.

External Websites Dedicated to the State Seal of Civic Engagement

The websites listed below have been developed by California organizations that are supporting LEAs to implement the SSCE. These sites are being updated as new resources become available.

California History-Social Science Project Sites

Each of the below CHSSP sites has a variety of resources to support professional learning in civics.

Institutes

Coaching, Seminars, Training Videos, Toolkits

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

# data[].attributes.body
Info and materials to help you with civic engagement

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

Educators, administrators, students, families, community members, and others are encouraged to use these resources to support civic engagement inside and outside the classroom, especially as students work to earn the California State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE). Please use the contact information at the bottom of the page if you have questions, or to learn more about the SSCE.

Distance Learning During COVID-19

Students can still be civically engaged, even in this new and rapidly changing educational landscape. Many of the resources listed on the tabs below can be adapted for distance learning, and some programs are already providing resources designed for a virtual environment. Additionally, the links below contain several resources specifically designed to teach civics through distance learning during the COVID-19 response.

The CHSSP provides History-Social Science (HSS) resources to support teachers engaged in distance learning and parents helping children learn at home, including a parent's guide to History-Social Science (HSS).

The Office of the Governor California Volunteers Program has special opportunities to get involved with the COVID-19 volunteer response.

This page contains comprehensive information about California's COVID-19 response, including ways to become involved in the effort.
CDE Resources to Support Distance Learning
This page aggregates guidance documents, webinars, and content-specific links to support distance learning in a variety of subjects.

This article, published in the Journal of Public Affairs in April 2019, details one professor's development and implementation of a civics project in an online American government course.

These free resources from iCivics include games and toolkits designed for educators and families to use for distance learning.

Street Law provides interactive curriculum and training for teaching young people about the law and government. This list has been updated to include at-home civics learning resources and strategies.

This growing list highlights organizations that are producing and elevating resources to support civic engagement through distance learning.

Foundational Documents for Civic Engagement

In 2013, Former State Superintendent of Public Instruction (SSPI), Tom Torlakson, introduced the Civics Education Initiative. This included a series of programs and resources geared toward revitalizing statewide civic education:

The following documents provide research, case studies, and policy recommendations for improving student civic engagement.

Research and Reports

Published in 2003 as part of a partnership between the Carnegie Corporation, the Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement, this document represented an effort to gather scholars and practitioners to determine the most effective, feasible civic education programs possible. The report serves as the foundation for several other documents in this collection, and marks the beginning of the current national push to improve civic education.

The result of a three-year state-led collaborative effort, the C3 Framework for Social Studies State Standards was developed for states to upgrade their social studies standards, and for local school districts, schools, teachers, and curriculum writers to strengthen their social studies programs. Its objectives are to: (a) enhance the rigor of the social studies disciplines; (b) build critical thinking, problem solving, and participatory skills to become engaged citizens; and (c) align academic programs to the Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts and Literacy in HSS.

This 2020 report was published in the Journal of Social Studies Research to discuss the role of emotion in citizenship and presents an argument for critical affective literacy in civic education classrooms. The report also offers instructional strategies for handling the political emotions of students.

This article outlines the importance of schools promoting equity, social justice, and civic engagement in schools. It also provides an explanation of how the State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE), the Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) process, Multi-Tiered System of Supports and related efforts to incorporate civic engagement standards into the California School Dashboard can help equitable civic empowerment for all students.

This report, published by Educational Testing Service in the leadup to the 2012 presidential election, analyzes how gaps in educational attainment and income indicate fault lines in our democracy by predicting voting and civic engagement rates. The report includes specific data on young adults' civic engagement compared to their income and education, and makes recommendations for schools, colleges, and adult education.

This publication provides several key strategies for advancing civic education system wide based on experiences promoting civic learning and engagement in Chicago, Illinois and Riverside, California.

This 2011 report builds and expands on the findings of the 2003 Civic Mission of Schools. The report updates research on the benefits of civic learning, outlines the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning, and makes policy recommendations for improving civic outcomes.

This article focuses on the idea of "lived civics" as a frame for more effective civic learning by explicitly addressing the interests and experiences of young people through the context of best practices in teaching civics. The article offers ideas on reframing civics content and instruction, and includes a review of contemporary civics literature, principles of lived civics, and reflections for educators to consider.

This study of civic learning in California school districts draws upon LCAPs and district mission statements to assess the degree to which districts are focused on and devoting resources to civic priorities. It provides several key findings based upon the data, and makes recommendations for supporting the SSCE and moving forward with a systemic commitment to, and investment in, civic learning.

This report, published in 2017, adds several complementary streams of research and practice to the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning. Ideas for enhancing civic education with news media literacy education, action civics, social and emotional learning, and school climate reform are included, as well as two case studies of states improving their civic learning plans.
Revitalizing K-12 Civic Learning In California: A Blueprint For Action (PDF)
This report, by the California Task Force on K-12 Civic Learning, was published in August 2014 as a partnership between former SSPI Tom Torlakson and Supreme Court Chief Justice Tani G. Cantil-Sakauye. The report offers system-wide recommendations to improve civic learning, including revising the HSS Content Standards and Framework and improving professional learning opportunities.

Published in 2014 by the Education Commission of States, this guidebook is a resource for teachers, administrators, policymakers, and others who want to put the Six Proven Practices in place but are not sure where to begin. The document highlights research and provides practical suggestions for implementing each practice.

Council is a sharing method, focused on empathy and active listening. It can be effective especially when working on topics such as personal development and strengthening of group dynamics.

This 2013 conference, funded by the Bechtel Foundation, brought together several experts on youth civic development and citizenship education in order to promote civic development and participation for youth from all backgrounds. The report outlines recommendations regarding improving citizenship education nationwide.

General, Comprehensive Resources

These organizations offer a variety of programs to support civic learning at all levels and for a variety of audiences.

Webinars, podcasts, and curriculum to support civic engagement from a global perspective.

Series of civics programs, community partnership opportunities, lesson resources, and other publications.

Extensive array of lesson resources including Bill of Rights in Action, Civics On Call, civic scenarios and simulations, and more.

Wide variety of resources for educators , school leaders, students and families that address racism, anti-semitism, and prejudice throughout history. Key resources include curriculum, strategies, webinars, Teaching with Current Events , the Choosing to Participate Toolkit , and Fostering Civil Discourse: How do We Talk about Issues that Matter .

Classroom activities and lessons, voter registration information, teacher training and resources, school and district resources, and research on civic education.

Program geared towards helping civics educators implement comprehensive civics education programs. Includes lesson plans, an E-Congress, mock elections, research, current events discussion support, and teacher training.

Searchable Resource Databases

These sites include searchable resource databases that provide information for educators, administrators, families, and students.

Database of resources focused on career and technical education lessons. Includes primary sources, lesson plans, strategies, and resources to support Project Based Learning.

Articles, reports, lesson plans and other resources that support civic engagement.

Searchable database of resources dedicated to civic engagement. Search by content or by standard, or play games, check out curriculum units, or plan a civics scope and sequence. They also offer resources to support distance learning.

The National Endowment for the Humanities provides this resource that contains lesson plans, curricula, and full teacher's guides for grades K-12. Search by topic and grade level. Resources are HSS-focused, but also include literature, language arts, arts and culture.

Database focused on lessons for civics, government, and law-related education for K-12 students. Includes simulations, discussions, mock trials, case studies, and other research-based materials. Filter lessons by grade level, lesson topic, strategy, or standard.

Resources Targeted by Grade Level or Function

Below are recommended resources organized by grade level (kindergarten through grade eight [K-8], and grades nine through twelve [9-12]). Please keep in mind that many resources can span multiple grade levels based on individual student needs, and educators should review and adapt all resources before implementing them.

Resources for Kindergarten through Grade Eight

Even the youngest students can become civically engaged! The following resources can help K-8 students get excited about civics.

Apprentice-level learning adventures geared at teaching kids ages four through eight about the U.S. government.

One-day workshops for students and advisors to focus on teamwork and building ideas for effective student governance.

Elementary schools are encouraged to apply for Civic Learning Awards and participate in the Judges in the Classroom Program. Lesson resources are also available for elementary students on the Digital Chalkboard.

A wide range of short articles on various topics in world history, American history, and government. Also includes a series of biographies on dozens of influential individuals.

Field trips designed for kindergarten through grade two (K-2) students focusing on fundamental principles of democracy.

Students can choose from a variety of games ranging in length from 0-30+ minutes on topics such as voting, arguing Supreme Court cases, and international diplomacy.

Interdisciplinary lesson resources that use literacy and mock trials to teach key principles of civics. Some lessons are created for students in grades four and five.

Series of lessons that teach about the electoral process and encourage citizenship in the classroom, school, home and community.
Rendell Center for Civics and Civic Engagement Literature-Based Mock Trials
Lesson plans focused on teaching the skills of civil discourse when discussing social justice issues, designed for a K-2 audience.

Resources for Grades Nine through Twelve

These resources are appropriate for students primarily in high school, although many can be adapted for grades 6-8.

Information about SOS initiatives to educate and engage young Californian's in the democratic process, including programs to pre-register to vote at age 16, High School Voter Education Weeks, California Student Mock Elections, and guidance for school administrators and teachers.

An online resource for studying democracy, designed for use by teachers, professors, and college and secondary students. Includes information on essential principles of democracy, a study guide for democracy, and comparative information on the study of freedom internationally.

Curriculum for high school teachers, including an action project, research and blogging, democracy in action, and infographics.

The Institute for Local Government's PYLG units focus on roles, responsibilities, and processes of local government.

Funded by the S.D. Bechtel, Jr. Foundation, the Action Civics initiative worked to civic awareness and engagement in 14 middle and high schools in the Sacramento region. This site includes resources to support professional development provided through the program and other tools to support civic learning. The initiative also developed resources for middle school students.

High school law course materials, Supreme Court of the United States in the Classroom program, and rule of law education curriculum.

Collection of documents that focus on specific issues in American civic history. Each collection has an introduction that provides necessary context and three sets of study questions. Each of the documents is annotated with footnotes that provide biographical information on document authors and identify obscure words, events, or individuals.

Supporting the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning

This page contains some of the strongest resources for incorporating each of the Six Proven Practices of Effective Civic Learning.

The California Courts recognize and celebrate public schools' efforts to engage students in civic learning through their annual Civic Learning Awards . Co-sponsored by Chief Justice Cantil-Sakauye. Seventy-five schools earned awards in 2020. Schools seeking to earn an award may also refer to this list of resources as they set up or enhance their civic learning programs.

Instruction in Government, History, Law, Democracy

Schools can offer courses on civics, government, history, and law, in an effort to encourage better-informed citizens. The below resources include vetted, easy-to-implement curricula to support these courses.

Current Events and Controversial Issues

Effective classroom discussions of current events and controversial issues can increase student interest in government. The below resources provide a variety of options for facilitating these types of engaging discussions.

Service-Learning

Service-learning opportunities provide ways for students and the community to come together to develop habits of community engagement. These resources can help educators facilitate projects, while also tying them back to the classroom.

Extracurricular Activities

Student-led volunteer projects that occur outside of the classroom can also teach skills in collaboration and civic participation. The below organizations provide resources and ongoing support for students, teachers, administrators, and families.

Student Participation in School Governance

Giving students a voice can also help increase understanding and appreciation of the intricacies of the democratic process as it also teaches key behaviors of citizenship. These organizations provide guidance and support for schools implementing a structure for student voice in school governance.

Simulations

Simulations allow students to simulate adult civic roles and offer a unique, deep civic learning experience. Some of these programs use role-playing games to simulate government, helping students participate in processes such as national elections.

Resources for Students

The below resources are especially helpful for students looking to become more civically engaged.

Student Institutes and Conferences

While not officially part of the Six Proven Practices, participation in institutes and conferences offer additional chances for students to engage first-hand in a way that supports overall civic engagement.

Programs to Support Student Engagement

The below organizations can help support students who seek to enhance civic learning and engagement on school campuses. In light of COVID-19, many of these organizations are providing resources to support civic engagement virtually.

Miscellaneous Tips, Skills, and Ideas

These resources can help students as they carry out their civic engagement projects. Resources include advice on writing professional emails, ideas for community service projects, and helpful checklists to guide projects from start to finish.

This list will grow over time. Have you come across any other helpful guides or tools directed specifically towards helping students carry out the day-to-day work of civic engagement projects? Please share them with the CDE at ssce@cde.ca.gov.

Reminders, guidelines, and samples to help students write a variety of professional emails.

Professional Learning Opportunities for Educators

The 2016 HSS Framework incorporates critical shifts for educators. These shifts include a focus on inquiry-based instruction through innovative teaching and learning practices. The HSS Framework guides educators as they design, implement, and maintain a coherent course of study to teach content; develop inquiry-based critical thinking skills; improve reading comprehension and expository writing ability; and promote an engaged and knowledgeable citizenry in history and the related social sciences.

The Budget Act of 2017 included an allocation of funds for high-quality professional learning and resources for HSS educators and administrators to implement the new framework. Through funding from the CDE, the Sacramento County Office of Education has developed a system of statewide and regional communities of practice to provide meaningful and targeted support in HSS for classroom teachers, paraprofessionals, and site administrators. Representing the four instructional shifts described in the HSS Framework, the Content, Literacy, Inquiry, and Citizenship (CLIC) Project develops and facilitates the many elements integral for successful implementation of the HSS Framework. As part of their work, the CLIC Project hosts a YouTube channel that contains videos to support educators and administrators as they implement the HSS Framework, including videos on fostering student advocacy and classroom approaches to civic learning .

Below is a list of additional professional learning institutes, courses, and other opportunities to support educators as they implement civic learning programs.

External Websites Dedicated to the State Seal of Civic Engagement

The websites listed below have been developed by California organizations that are supporting LEAs to implement the SSCE. These sites are being updated as new resources become available.

California History-Social Science Project Sites

Each of the below CHSSP sites has a variety of resources to support professional learning in civics.

Institutes

Coaching, Seminars, Training Videos, Toolkits

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President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

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Info and materials to help you with civic engagem

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

Educators, administrators, students, families, community members, and others are encouraged to use these resources to support civic engagement inside and outside the classroom, especially as students work to earn the California State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE). Please use the contact information at the bottom of the page if you have questions, or to learn more about the SSCE.

Distance Learning During COVID-19

Students can still be civically engaged, even in this new and rapidly changing educational landscape. Many of the resources listed on the tabs below can be adapted for distance learning, and some programs are already providing resources designed for a virtual environment. Additionally, the links below contain several resources specifically designed to teach civics through distance learning during the COVID-19 response.

The CHSSP provides History-Social Science (HSS) resources to support teachers engaged in distance learning and parents helping children learn at home, including a parent's guide to History-Social Science (HSS).

The Office of the Governor California Volunteers Program has special opportunities to get involved with the COVID-19 volunteer response.

This page contains comprehensive information about California's COVID-19 response, including ways to become involved in the effort.
CDE Resources to Support Distance Learning
This page aggregates guidance documents, webinars, and content-specific links to support distance learning in a variety of subjects.

This article, published in the Journal of Public Affairs in April 2019, details one professor's development and implementation of a civics project in an online American government course.

These free resources from iCivics include games and toolkits designed for educators and families to use for distance learning.

Street Law provides interactive curriculum and training for teaching young people about the law and government. This list has been updated to include at-home civics learning resources and strategies.

This growing list highlights organizations that are producing and elevating resources to support civic engagement through distance learning.

Foundational Documents for Civic Engagement

In 2013, Former State Superintendent of Public Instruction (SSPI), Tom Torlakson, introduced the Civics Education Initiative. This included a series of programs and resources geared toward revitalizing statewide civic education:

The following documents provide research, case studies, and policy recommendations for improving student civic engagement.

Research and Reports

Published in 2003 as part of a partnership between the Carnegie Corporation, the Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement, this document represented an effort to gather scholars and practitioners to determine the most effective, feasible civic education programs possible. The report serves as the foundation for several other documents in this collection, and marks the beginning of the current national push to improve civic education.

The result of a three-year state-led collaborative effort, the C3 Framework for Social Studies State Standards was developed for states to upgrade their social studies standards, and for local school districts, schools, teachers, and curriculum writers to strengthen their social studies programs. Its objectives are to: (a) enhance the rigor of the social studies disciplines; (b) build critical thinking, problem solving, and participatory skills to become engaged citizens; and (c) align academic programs to the Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts and Literacy in HSS.

This 2020 report was published in the Journal of Social Studies Research to discuss the role of emotion in citizenship and presents an argument for critical affective literacy in civic education classrooms. The report also offers instructional strategies for handling the political emotions of students.

This article outlines the importance of schools promoting equity, social justice, and civic engagement in schools. It also provides an explanation of how the State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE), the Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) process, Multi-Tiered System of Supports and related efforts to incorporate civic engagement standards into the California School Dashboard can help equitable civic empowerment for all students.

This report, published by Educational Testing Service in the leadup to the 2012 presidential election, analyzes how gaps in educational attainment and income indicate fault lines in our democracy by predicting voting and civic engagement rates. The report includes specific data on young adults' civic engagement compared to their income and education, and makes recommendations for schools, colleges, and adult education.

This publication provides several key strategies for advancing civic education system wide based on experiences promoting civic learning and engagement in Chicago, Illinois and Riverside, California.

This 2011 report builds and expands on the findings of the 2003 Civic Mission of Schools. The report updates research on the benefits of civic learning, outlines the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning, and makes policy recommendations for improving civic outcomes.

This article focuses on the idea of "lived civics" as a frame for more effective civic learning by explicitly addressing the interests and experiences of young people through the context of best practices in teaching civics. The article offers ideas on reframing civics content and instruction, and includes a review of contemporary civics literature, principles of lived civics, and reflections for educators to consider.

This study of civic learning in California school districts draws upon LCAPs and district mission statements to assess the degree to which districts are focused on and devoting resources to civic priorities. It provides several key findings based upon the data, and makes recommendations for supporting the SSCE and moving forward with a systemic commitment to, and investment in, civic learning.

This report, published in 2017, adds several complementary streams of research and practice to the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning. Ideas for enhancing civic education with news media literacy education, action civics, social and emotional learning, and school climate reform are included, as well as two case studies of states improving their civic learning plans.
Revitalizing K-12 Civic Learning In California: A Blueprint For Action (PDF)
This report, by the California Task Force on K-12 Civic Learning, was published in August 2014 as a partnership between former SSPI Tom Torlakson and Supreme Court Chief Justice Tani G. Cantil-Sakauye. The report offers system-wide recommendations to improve civic learning, including revising the HSS Content Standards and Framework and improving professional learning opportunities.

Published in 2014 by the Education Commission of States, this guidebook is a resource for teachers, administrators, policymakers, and others who want to put the Six Proven Practices in place but are not sure where to begin. The document highlights research and provides practical suggestions for implementing each practice.

Council is a sharing method, focused on empathy and active listening. It can be effective especially when working on topics such as personal development and strengthening of group dynamics.

This 2013 conference, funded by the Bechtel Foundation, brought together several experts on youth civic development and citizenship education in order to promote civic development and participation for youth from all backgrounds. The report outlines recommendations regarding improving citizenship education nationwide.

General, Comprehensive Resources

These organizations offer a variety of programs to support civic learning at all levels and for a variety of audiences.

Webinars, podcasts, and curriculum to support civic engagement from a global perspective.

Series of civics programs, community partnership opportunities, lesson resources, and other publications.

Extensive array of lesson resources including Bill of Rights in Action, Civics On Call, civic scenarios and simulations, and more.

Wide variety of resources for educators , school leaders, students and families that address racism, anti-semitism, and prejudice throughout history. Key resources include curriculum, strategies, webinars, Teaching with Current Events , the Choosing to Participate Toolkit , and Fostering Civil Discourse: How do We Talk about Issues that Matter .

Classroom activities and lessons, voter registration information, teacher training and resources, school and district resources, and research on civic education.

Program geared towards helping civics educators implement comprehensive civics education programs. Includes lesson plans, an E-Congress, mock elections, research, current events discussion support, and teacher training.

Searchable Resource Databases

These sites include searchable resource databases that provide information for educators, administrators, families, and students.

Database of resources focused on career and technical education lessons. Includes primary sources, lesson plans, strategies, and resources to support Project Based Learning.

Articles, reports, lesson plans and other resources that support civic engagement.

Searchable database of resources dedicated to civic engagement. Search by content or by standard, or play games, check out curriculum units, or plan a civics scope and sequence. They also offer resources to support distance learning.

The National Endowment for the Humanities provides this resource that contains lesson plans, curricula, and full teacher's guides for grades K-12. Search by topic and grade level. Resources are HSS-focused, but also include literature, language arts, arts and culture.

Database focused on lessons for civics, government, and law-related education for K-12 students. Includes simulations, discussions, mock trials, case studies, and other research-based materials. Filter lessons by grade level, lesson topic, strategy, or standard.

Resources Targeted by Grade Level or Function

Below are recommended resources organized by grade level (kindergarten through grade eight [K-8], and grades nine through twelve [9-12]). Please keep in mind that many resources can span multiple grade levels based on individual student needs, and educators should review and adapt all resources before implementing them.

Resources for Kindergarten through Grade Eight

Even the youngest students can become civically engaged! The following resources can help K-8 students get excited about civics.

Apprentice-level learning adventures geared at teaching kids ages four through eight about the U.S. government.

One-day workshops for students and advisors to focus on teamwork and building ideas for effective student governance.

Elementary schools are encouraged to apply for Civic Learning Awards and participate in the Judges in the Classroom Program. Lesson resources are also available for elementary students on the Digital Chalkboard.

A wide range of short articles on various topics in world history, American history, and government. Also includes a series of biographies on dozens of influential individuals.

Field trips designed for kindergarten through grade two (K-2) students focusing on fundamental principles of democracy.

Students can choose from a variety of games ranging in length from 0-30+ minutes on topics such as voting, arguing Supreme Court cases, and international diplomacy.

Interdisciplinary lesson resources that use literacy and mock trials to teach key principles of civics. Some lessons are created for students in grades four and five.

Series of lessons that teach about the electoral process and encourage citizenship in the classroom, school, home and community.
Rendell Center for Civics and Civic Engagement Literature-Based Mock Trials
Lesson plans focused on teaching the skills of civil discourse when discussing social justice issues, designed for a K-2 audience.

Resources for Grades Nine through Twelve

These resources are appropriate for students primarily in high school, although many can be adapted for grades 6-8.

Information about SOS initiatives to educate and engage young Californian's in the democratic process, including programs to pre-register to vote at age 16, High School Voter Education Weeks, California Student Mock Elections, and guidance for school administrators and teachers.

An online resource for studying democracy, designed for use by teachers, professors, and college and secondary students. Includes information on essential principles of democracy, a study guide for democracy, and comparative information on the study of freedom internationally.

Curriculum for high school teachers, including an action project, research and blogging, democracy in action, and infographics.

The Institute for Local Government's PYLG units focus on roles, responsibilities, and processes of local government.

Funded by the S.D. Bechtel, Jr. Foundation, the Action Civics initiative worked to civic awareness and engagement in 14 middle and high schools in the Sacramento region. This site includes resources to support professional development provided through the program and other tools to support civic learning. The initiative also developed resources for middle school students.

High school law course materials, Supreme Court of the United States in the Classroom program, and rule of law education curriculum.

Collection of documents that focus on specific issues in American civic history. Each collection has an introduction that provides necessary context and three sets of study questions. Each of the documents is annotated with footnotes that provide biographical information on document authors and identify obscure words, events, or individuals.

Supporting the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning

This page contains some of the strongest resources for incorporating each of the Six Proven Practices of Effective Civic Learning.

The California Courts recognize and celebrate public schools' efforts to engage students in civic learning through their annual Civic Learning Awards . Co-sponsored by Chief Justice Cantil-Sakauye. Seventy-five schools earned awards in 2020. Schools seeking to earn an award may also refer to this list of resources as they set up or enhance their civic learning programs.

Instruction in Government, History, Law, Democracy

Schools can offer courses on civics, government, history, and law, in an effort to encourage better-informed citizens. The below resources include vetted, easy-to-implement curricula to support these courses.

Current Events and Controversial Issues

Effective classroom discussions of current events and controversial issues can increase student interest in government. The below resources provide a variety of options for facilitating these types of engaging discussions.

Service-Learning

Service-learning opportunities provide ways for students and the community to come together to develop habits of community engagement. These resources can help educators facilitate projects, while also tying them back to the classroom.

Extracurricular Activities

Student-led volunteer projects that occur outside of the classroom can also teach skills in collaboration and civic participation. The below organizations provide resources and ongoing support for students, teachers, administrators, and families.

Student Participation in School Governance

Giving students a voice can also help increase understanding and appreciation of the intricacies of the democratic process as it also teaches key behaviors of citizenship. These organizations provide guidance and support for schools implementing a structure for student voice in school governance.

Simulations

Simulations allow students to simulate adult civic roles and offer a unique, deep civic learning experience. Some of these programs use role-playing games to simulate government, helping students participate in processes such as national elections.

Resources for Students

The below resources are especially helpful for students looking to become more civically engaged.

Student Institutes and Conferences

While not officially part of the Six Proven Practices, participation in institutes and conferences offer additional chances for students to engage first-hand in a way that supports overall civic engagement.

Programs to Support Student Engagement

The below organizations can help support students who seek to enhance civic learning and engagement on school campuses. In light of COVID-19, many of these organizations are providing resources to support civic engagement virtually.

Miscellaneous Tips, Skills, and Ideas

These resources can help students as they carry out their civic engagement projects. Resources include advice on writing professional emails, ideas for community service projects, and helpful checklists to guide projects from start to finish.

This list will grow over time. Have you come across any other helpful guides or tools directed specifically towards helping students carry out the day-to-day work of civic engagement projects? Please share them with the CDE at ssce@cde.ca.gov.

Reminders, guidelines, and samples to help students write a variety of professional emails.

Professional Learning Opportunities for Educators

The 2016 HSS Framework incorporates critical shifts for educators. These shifts include a focus on inquiry-based instruction through innovative teaching and learning practices. The HSS Framework guides educators as they design, implement, and maintain a coherent course of study to teach content; develop inquiry-based critical thinking skills; improve reading comprehension and expository writing ability; and promote an engaged and knowledgeable citizenry in history and the related social sciences.

The Budget Act of 2017 included an allocation of funds for high-quality professional learning and resources for HSS educators and administrators to implement the new framework. Through funding from the CDE, the Sacramento County Office of Education has developed a system of statewide and regional communities of practice to provide meaningful and targeted support in HSS for classroom teachers, paraprofessionals, and site administrators. Representing the four instructional shifts described in the HSS Framework, the Content, Literacy, Inquiry, and Citizenship (CLIC) Project develops and facilitates the many elements integral for successful implementation of the HSS Framework. As part of their work, the CLIC Project hosts a YouTube channel that contains videos to support educators and administrators as they implement the HSS Framework, including videos on fostering student advocacy and classroom approaches to civic learning .

Below is a list of additional professional learning institutes, courses, and other opportunities to support educators as they implement civic learning programs.

External Websites Dedicated to the State Seal of Civic Engagement

The websites listed below have been developed by California organizations that are supporting LEAs to implement the SSCE. These sites are being updated as new resources become available.

California History-Social Science Project Sites

Each of the below CHSSP sites has a variety of resources to support professional learning in civics.

Institutes

Coaching, Seminars, Training Videos, Toolkits

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

# data[].attributes.body
Info and materials to help you with civic enga

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

Educators, administrators, students, families, community members, and others are encouraged to use these resources to support civic engagement inside and outside the classroom, especially as students work to earn the California State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE). Please use the contact information at the bottom of the page if you have questions, or to learn more about the SSCE.

Distance Learning During COVID-19

Students can still be civically engaged, even in this new and rapidly changing educational landscape. Many of the resources listed on the tabs below can be adapted for distance learning, and some programs are already providing resources designed for a virtual environment. Additionally, the links below contain several resources specifically designed to teach civics through distance learning during the COVID-19 response.

The CHSSP provides History-Social Science (HSS) resources to support teachers engaged in distance learning and parents helping children learn at home, including a parent's guide to History-Social Science (HSS).

The Office of the Governor California Volunteers Program has special opportunities to get involved with the COVID-19 volunteer response.

This page contains comprehensive information about California's COVID-19 response, including ways to become involved in the effort.
CDE Resources to Support Distance Learning
This page aggregates guidance documents, webinars, and content-specific links to support distance learning in a variety of subjects.

This article, published in the Journal of Public Affairs in April 2019, details one professor's development and implementation of a civics project in an online American government course.

These free resources from iCivics include games and toolkits designed for educators and families to use for distance learning.

Street Law provides interactive curriculum and training for teaching young people about the law and government. This list has been updated to include at-home civics learning resources and strategies.

This growing list highlights organizations that are producing and elevating resources to support civic engagement through distance learning.

Foundational Documents for Civic Engagement

In 2013, Former State Superintendent of Public Instruction (SSPI), Tom Torlakson, introduced the Civics Education Initiative. This included a series of programs and resources geared toward revitalizing statewide civic education:

The following documents provide research, case studies, and policy recommendations for improving student civic engagement.

Research and Reports

Published in 2003 as part of a partnership between the Carnegie Corporation, the Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement, this document represented an effort to gather scholars and practitioners to determine the most effective, feasible civic education programs possible. The report serves as the foundation for several other documents in this collection, and marks the beginning of the current national push to improve civic education.

The result of a three-year state-led collaborative effort, the C3 Framework for Social Studies State Standards was developed for states to upgrade their social studies standards, and for local school districts, schools, teachers, and curriculum writers to strengthen their social studies programs. Its objectives are to: (a) enhance the rigor of the social studies disciplines; (b) build critical thinking, problem solving, and participatory skills to become engaged citizens; and (c) align academic programs to the Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts and Literacy in HSS.

This 2020 report was published in the Journal of Social Studies Research to discuss the role of emotion in citizenship and presents an argument for critical affective literacy in civic education classrooms. The report also offers instructional strategies for handling the political emotions of students.

This article outlines the importance of schools promoting equity, social justice, and civic engagement in schools. It also provides an explanation of how the State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE), the Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) process, Multi-Tiered System of Supports and related efforts to incorporate civic engagement standards into the California School Dashboard can help equitable civic empowerment for all students.

This report, published by Educational Testing Service in the leadup to the 2012 presidential election, analyzes how gaps in educational attainment and income indicate fault lines in our democracy by predicting voting and civic engagement rates. The report includes specific data on young adults' civic engagement compared to their income and education, and makes recommendations for schools, colleges, and adult education.

This publication provides several key strategies for advancing civic education system wide based on experiences promoting civic learning and engagement in Chicago, Illinois and Riverside, California.

This 2011 report builds and expands on the findings of the 2003 Civic Mission of Schools. The report updates research on the benefits of civic learning, outlines the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning, and makes policy recommendations for improving civic outcomes.

This article focuses on the idea of "lived civics" as a frame for more effective civic learning by explicitly addressing the interests and experiences of young people through the context of best practices in teaching civics. The article offers ideas on reframing civics content and instruction, and includes a review of contemporary civics literature, principles of lived civics, and reflections for educators to consider.

This study of civic learning in California school districts draws upon LCAPs and district mission statements to assess the degree to which districts are focused on and devoting resources to civic priorities. It provides several key findings based upon the data, and makes recommendations for supporting the SSCE and moving forward with a systemic commitment to, and investment in, civic learning.

This report, published in 2017, adds several complementary streams of research and practice to the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning. Ideas for enhancing civic education with news media literacy education, action civics, social and emotional learning, and school climate reform are included, as well as two case studies of states improving their civic learning plans.
Revitalizing K-12 Civic Learning In California: A Blueprint For Action (PDF)
This report, by the California Task Force on K-12 Civic Learning, was published in August 2014 as a partnership between former SSPI Tom Torlakson and Supreme Court Chief Justice Tani G. Cantil-Sakauye. The report offers system-wide recommendations to improve civic learning, including revising the HSS Content Standards and Framework and improving professional learning opportunities.

Published in 2014 by the Education Commission of States, this guidebook is a resource for teachers, administrators, policymakers, and others who want to put the Six Proven Practices in place but are not sure where to begin. The document highlights research and provides practical suggestions for implementing each practice.

Council is a sharing method, focused on empathy and active listening. It can be effective especially when working on topics such as personal development and strengthening of group dynamics.

This 2013 conference, funded by the Bechtel Foundation, brought together several experts on youth civic development and citizenship education in order to promote civic development and participation for youth from all backgrounds. The report outlines recommendations regarding improving citizenship education nationwide.

General, Comprehensive Resources

These organizations offer a variety of programs to support civic learning at all levels and for a variety of audiences.

Webinars, podcasts, and curriculum to support civic engagement from a global perspective.

Series of civics programs, community partnership opportunities, lesson resources, and other publications.

Extensive array of lesson resources including Bill of Rights in Action, Civics On Call, civic scenarios and simulations, and more.

Wide variety of resources for educators , school leaders, students and families that address racism, anti-semitism, and prejudice throughout history. Key resources include curriculum, strategies, webinars, Teaching with Current Events , the Choosing to Participate Toolkit , and Fostering Civil Discourse: How do We Talk about Issues that Matter .

Classroom activities and lessons, voter registration information, teacher training and resources, school and district resources, and research on civic education.

Program geared towards helping civics educators implement comprehensive civics education programs. Includes lesson plans, an E-Congress, mock elections, research, current events discussion support, and teacher training.

Searchable Resource Databases

These sites include searchable resource databases that provide information for educators, administrators, families, and students.

Database of resources focused on career and technical education lessons. Includes primary sources, lesson plans, strategies, and resources to support Project Based Learning.

Articles, reports, lesson plans and other resources that support civic engagement.

Searchable database of resources dedicated to civic engagement. Search by content or by standard, or play games, check out curriculum units, or plan a civics scope and sequence. They also offer resources to support distance learning.

The National Endowment for the Humanities provides this resource that contains lesson plans, curricula, and full teacher's guides for grades K-12. Search by topic and grade level. Resources are HSS-focused, but also include literature, language arts, arts and culture.

Database focused on lessons for civics, government, and law-related education for K-12 students. Includes simulations, discussions, mock trials, case studies, and other research-based materials. Filter lessons by grade level, lesson topic, strategy, or standard.

Resources Targeted by Grade Level or Function

Below are recommended resources organized by grade level (kindergarten through grade eight [K-8], and grades nine through twelve [9-12]). Please keep in mind that many resources can span multiple grade levels based on individual student needs, and educators should review and adapt all resources before implementing them.

Resources for Kindergarten through Grade Eight

Even the youngest students can become civically engaged! The following resources can help K-8 students get excited about civics.

Apprentice-level learning adventures geared at teaching kids ages four through eight about the U.S. government.

One-day workshops for students and advisors to focus on teamwork and building ideas for effective student governance.

Elementary schools are encouraged to apply for Civic Learning Awards and participate in the Judges in the Classroom Program. Lesson resources are also available for elementary students on the Digital Chalkboard.

A wide range of short articles on various topics in world history, American history, and government. Also includes a series of biographies on dozens of influential individuals.

Field trips designed for kindergarten through grade two (K-2) students focusing on fundamental principles of democracy.

Students can choose from a variety of games ranging in length from 0-30+ minutes on topics such as voting, arguing Supreme Court cases, and international diplomacy.

Interdisciplinary lesson resources that use literacy and mock trials to teach key principles of civics. Some lessons are created for students in grades four and five.

Series of lessons that teach about the electoral process and encourage citizenship in the classroom, school, home and community.
Rendell Center for Civics and Civic Engagement Literature-Based Mock Trials
Lesson plans focused on teaching the skills of civil discourse when discussing social justice issues, designed for a K-2 audience.

Resources for Grades Nine through Twelve

These resources are appropriate for students primarily in high school, although many can be adapted for grades 6-8.

Information about SOS initiatives to educate and engage young Californian's in the democratic process, including programs to pre-register to vote at age 16, High School Voter Education Weeks, California Student Mock Elections, and guidance for school administrators and teachers.

An online resource for studying democracy, designed for use by teachers, professors, and college and secondary students. Includes information on essential principles of democracy, a study guide for democracy, and comparative information on the study of freedom internationally.

Curriculum for high school teachers, including an action project, research and blogging, democracy in action, and infographics.

The Institute for Local Government's PYLG units focus on roles, responsibilities, and processes of local government.

Funded by the S.D. Bechtel, Jr. Foundation, the Action Civics initiative worked to civic awareness and engagement in 14 middle and high schools in the Sacramento region. This site includes resources to support professional development provided through the program and other tools to support civic learning. The initiative also developed resources for middle school students.

High school law course materials, Supreme Court of the United States in the Classroom program, and rule of law education curriculum.

Collection of documents that focus on specific issues in American civic history. Each collection has an introduction that provides necessary context and three sets of study questions. Each of the documents is annotated with footnotes that provide biographical information on document authors and identify obscure words, events, or individuals.

Supporting the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning

This page contains some of the strongest resources for incorporating each of the Six Proven Practices of Effective Civic Learning.

The California Courts recognize and celebrate public schools' efforts to engage students in civic learning through their annual Civic Learning Awards . Co-sponsored by Chief Justice Cantil-Sakauye. Seventy-five schools earned awards in 2020. Schools seeking to earn an award may also refer to this list of resources as they set up or enhance their civic learning programs.

Instruction in Government, History, Law, Democracy

Schools can offer courses on civics, government, history, and law, in an effort to encourage better-informed citizens. The below resources include vetted, easy-to-implement curricula to support these courses.

Current Events and Controversial Issues

Effective classroom discussions of current events and controversial issues can increase student interest in government. The below resources provide a variety of options for facilitating these types of engaging discussions.

Service-Learning

Service-learning opportunities provide ways for students and the community to come together to develop habits of community engagement. These resources can help educators facilitate projects, while also tying them back to the classroom.

Extracurricular Activities

Student-led volunteer projects that occur outside of the classroom can also teach skills in collaboration and civic participation. The below organizations provide resources and ongoing support for students, teachers, administrators, and families.

Student Participation in School Governance

Giving students a voice can also help increase understanding and appreciation of the intricacies of the democratic process as it also teaches key behaviors of citizenship. These organizations provide guidance and support for schools implementing a structure for student voice in school governance.

Simulations

Simulations allow students to simulate adult civic roles and offer a unique, deep civic learning experience. Some of these programs use role-playing games to simulate government, helping students participate in processes such as national elections.

Resources for Students

The below resources are especially helpful for students looking to become more civically engaged.

Student Institutes and Conferences

While not officially part of the Six Proven Practices, participation in institutes and conferences offer additional chances for students to engage first-hand in a way that supports overall civic engagement.

Programs to Support Student Engagement

The below organizations can help support students who seek to enhance civic learning and engagement on school campuses. In light of COVID-19, many of these organizations are providing resources to support civic engagement virtually.

Miscellaneous Tips, Skills, and Ideas

These resources can help students as they carry out their civic engagement projects. Resources include advice on writing professional emails, ideas for community service projects, and helpful checklists to guide projects from start to finish.

This list will grow over time. Have you come across any other helpful guides or tools directed specifically towards helping students carry out the day-to-day work of civic engagement projects? Please share them with the CDE at ssce@cde.ca.gov.

Reminders, guidelines, and samples to help students write a variety of professional emails.

Professional Learning Opportunities for Educators

The 2016 HSS Framework incorporates critical shifts for educators. These shifts include a focus on inquiry-based instruction through innovative teaching and learning practices. The HSS Framework guides educators as they design, implement, and maintain a coherent course of study to teach content; develop inquiry-based critical thinking skills; improve reading comprehension and expository writing ability; and promote an engaged and knowledgeable citizenry in history and the related social sciences.

The Budget Act of 2017 included an allocation of funds for high-quality professional learning and resources for HSS educators and administrators to implement the new framework. Through funding from the CDE, the Sacramento County Office of Education has developed a system of statewide and regional communities of practice to provide meaningful and targeted support in HSS for classroom teachers, paraprofessionals, and site administrators. Representing the four instructional shifts described in the HSS Framework, the Content, Literacy, Inquiry, and Citizenship (CLIC) Project develops and facilitates the many elements integral for successful implementation of the HSS Framework. As part of their work, the CLIC Project hosts a YouTube channel that contains videos to support educators and administrators as they implement the HSS Framework, including videos on fostering student advocacy and classroom approaches to civic learning .

Below is a list of additional professional learning institutes, courses, and other opportunities to support educators as they implement civic learning programs.

External Websites Dedicated to the State Seal of Civic Engagement

The websites listed below have been developed by California organizations that are supporting LEAs to implement the SSCE. These sites are being updated as new resources become available.

California History-Social Science Project Sites

Each of the below CHSSP sites has a variety of resources to support professional learning in civics.

Institutes

Coaching, Seminars, Training Videos, Toolkits

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

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Info and materials to help you with civic en

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President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

Educators, administrators, students, families, community members, and others are encouraged to use these resources to support civic engagement inside and outside the classroom, especially as students work to earn the California State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE). Please use the contact information at the bottom of the page if you have questions, or to learn more about the SSCE.

Distance Learning During COVID-19

Students can still be civically engaged, even in this new and rapidly changing educational landscape. Many of the resources listed on the tabs below can be adapted for distance learning, and some programs are already providing resources designed for a virtual environment. Additionally, the links below contain several resources specifically designed to teach civics through distance learning during the COVID-19 response.

The CHSSP provides History-Social Science (HSS) resources to support teachers engaged in distance learning and parents helping children learn at home, including a parent's guide to History-Social Science (HSS).

The Office of the Governor California Volunteers Program has special opportunities to get involved with the COVID-19 volunteer response.

This page contains comprehensive information about California's COVID-19 response, including ways to become involved in the effort.
CDE Resources to Support Distance Learning
This page aggregates guidance documents, webinars, and content-specific links to support distance learning in a variety of subjects.

This article, published in the Journal of Public Affairs in April 2019, details one professor's development and implementation of a civics project in an online American government course.

These free resources from iCivics include games and toolkits designed for educators and families to use for distance learning.

Street Law provides interactive curriculum and training for teaching young people about the law and government. This list has been updated to include at-home civics learning resources and strategies.

This growing list highlights organizations that are producing and elevating resources to support civic engagement through distance learning.

Foundational Documents for Civic Engagement

In 2013, Former State Superintendent of Public Instruction (SSPI), Tom Torlakson, introduced the Civics Education Initiative. This included a series of programs and resources geared toward revitalizing statewide civic education:

The following documents provide research, case studies, and policy recommendations for improving student civic engagement.

Research and Reports

Published in 2003 as part of a partnership between the Carnegie Corporation, the Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement, this document represented an effort to gather scholars and practitioners to determine the most effective, feasible civic education programs possible. The report serves as the foundation for several other documents in this collection, and marks the beginning of the current national push to improve civic education.

The result of a three-year state-led collaborative effort, the C3 Framework for Social Studies State Standards was developed for states to upgrade their social studies standards, and for local school districts, schools, teachers, and curriculum writers to strengthen their social studies programs. Its objectives are to: (a) enhance the rigor of the social studies disciplines; (b) build critical thinking, problem solving, and participatory skills to become engaged citizens; and (c) align academic programs to the Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts and Literacy in HSS.

This 2020 report was published in the Journal of Social Studies Research to discuss the role of emotion in citizenship and presents an argument for critical affective literacy in civic education classrooms. The report also offers instructional strategies for handling the political emotions of students.

This article outlines the importance of schools promoting equity, social justice, and civic engagement in schools. It also provides an explanation of how the State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE), the Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) process, Multi-Tiered System of Supports and related efforts to incorporate civic engagement standards into the California School Dashboard can help equitable civic empowerment for all students.

This report, published by Educational Testing Service in the leadup to the 2012 presidential election, analyzes how gaps in educational attainment and income indicate fault lines in our democracy by predicting voting and civic engagement rates. The report includes specific data on young adults' civic engagement compared to their income and education, and makes recommendations for schools, colleges, and adult education.

This publication provides several key strategies for advancing civic education system wide based on experiences promoting civic learning and engagement in Chicago, Illinois and Riverside, California.

This 2011 report builds and expands on the findings of the 2003 Civic Mission of Schools. The report updates research on the benefits of civic learning, outlines the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning, and makes policy recommendations for improving civic outcomes.

This article focuses on the idea of "lived civics" as a frame for more effective civic learning by explicitly addressing the interests and experiences of young people through the context of best practices in teaching civics. The article offers ideas on reframing civics content and instruction, and includes a review of contemporary civics literature, principles of lived civics, and reflections for educators to consider.

This study of civic learning in California school districts draws upon LCAPs and district mission statements to assess the degree to which districts are focused on and devoting resources to civic priorities. It provides several key findings based upon the data, and makes recommendations for supporting the SSCE and moving forward with a systemic commitment to, and investment in, civic learning.

This report, published in 2017, adds several complementary streams of research and practice to the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning. Ideas for enhancing civic education with news media literacy education, action civics, social and emotional learning, and school climate reform are included, as well as two case studies of states improving their civic learning plans.
Revitalizing K-12 Civic Learning In California: A Blueprint For Action (PDF)
This report, by the California Task Force on K-12 Civic Learning, was published in August 2014 as a partnership between former SSPI Tom Torlakson and Supreme Court Chief Justice Tani G. Cantil-Sakauye. The report offers system-wide recommendations to improve civic learning, including revising the HSS Content Standards and Framework and improving professional learning opportunities.

Published in 2014 by the Education Commission of States, this guidebook is a resource for teachers, administrators, policymakers, and others who want to put the Six Proven Practices in place but are not sure where to begin. The document highlights research and provides practical suggestions for implementing each practice.

Council is a sharing method, focused on empathy and active listening. It can be effective especially when working on topics such as personal development and strengthening of group dynamics.

This 2013 conference, funded by the Bechtel Foundation, brought together several experts on youth civic development and citizenship education in order to promote civic development and participation for youth from all backgrounds. The report outlines recommendations regarding improving citizenship education nationwide.

General, Comprehensive Resources

These organizations offer a variety of programs to support civic learning at all levels and for a variety of audiences.

Webinars, podcasts, and curriculum to support civic engagement from a global perspective.

Series of civics programs, community partnership opportunities, lesson resources, and other publications.

Extensive array of lesson resources including Bill of Rights in Action, Civics On Call, civic scenarios and simulations, and more.

Wide variety of resources for educators , school leaders, students and families that address racism, anti-semitism, and prejudice throughout history. Key resources include curriculum, strategies, webinars, Teaching with Current Events , the Choosing to Participate Toolkit , and Fostering Civil Discourse: How do We Talk about Issues that Matter .

Classroom activities and lessons, voter registration information, teacher training and resources, school and district resources, and research on civic education.

Program geared towards helping civics educators implement comprehensive civics education programs. Includes lesson plans, an E-Congress, mock elections, research, current events discussion support, and teacher training.

Searchable Resource Databases

These sites include searchable resource databases that provide information for educators, administrators, families, and students.

Database of resources focused on career and technical education lessons. Includes primary sources, lesson plans, strategies, and resources to support Project Based Learning.

Articles, reports, lesson plans and other resources that support civic engagement.

Searchable database of resources dedicated to civic engagement. Search by content or by standard, or play games, check out curriculum units, or plan a civics scope and sequence. They also offer resources to support distance learning.

The National Endowment for the Humanities provides this resource that contains lesson plans, curricula, and full teacher's guides for grades K-12. Search by topic and grade level. Resources are HSS-focused, but also include literature, language arts, arts and culture.

Database focused on lessons for civics, government, and law-related education for K-12 students. Includes simulations, discussions, mock trials, case studies, and other research-based materials. Filter lessons by grade level, lesson topic, strategy, or standard.

Resources Targeted by Grade Level or Function

Below are recommended resources organized by grade level (kindergarten through grade eight [K-8], and grades nine through twelve [9-12]). Please keep in mind that many resources can span multiple grade levels based on individual student needs, and educators should review and adapt all resources before implementing them.

Resources for Kindergarten through Grade Eight

Even the youngest students can become civically engaged! The following resources can help K-8 students get excited about civics.

Apprentice-level learning adventures geared at teaching kids ages four through eight about the U.S. government.

One-day workshops for students and advisors to focus on teamwork and building ideas for effective student governance.

Elementary schools are encouraged to apply for Civic Learning Awards and participate in the Judges in the Classroom Program. Lesson resources are also available for elementary students on the Digital Chalkboard.

A wide range of short articles on various topics in world history, American history, and government. Also includes a series of biographies on dozens of influential individuals.

Field trips designed for kindergarten through grade two (K-2) students focusing on fundamental principles of democracy.

Students can choose from a variety of games ranging in length from 0-30+ minutes on topics such as voting, arguing Supreme Court cases, and international diplomacy.

Interdisciplinary lesson resources that use literacy and mock trials to teach key principles of civics. Some lessons are created for students in grades four and five.

Series of lessons that teach about the electoral process and encourage citizenship in the classroom, school, home and community.
Rendell Center for Civics and Civic Engagement Literature-Based Mock Trials
Lesson plans focused on teaching the skills of civil discourse when discussing social justice issues, designed for a K-2 audience.

Resources for Grades Nine through Twelve

These resources are appropriate for students primarily in high school, although many can be adapted for grades 6-8.

Information about SOS initiatives to educate and engage young Californian's in the democratic process, including programs to pre-register to vote at age 16, High School Voter Education Weeks, California Student Mock Elections, and guidance for school administrators and teachers.

An online resource for studying democracy, designed for use by teachers, professors, and college and secondary students. Includes information on essential principles of democracy, a study guide for democracy, and comparative information on the study of freedom internationally.

Curriculum for high school teachers, including an action project, research and blogging, democracy in action, and infographics.

The Institute for Local Government's PYLG units focus on roles, responsibilities, and processes of local government.

Funded by the S.D. Bechtel, Jr. Foundation, the Action Civics initiative worked to civic awareness and engagement in 14 middle and high schools in the Sacramento region. This site includes resources to support professional development provided through the program and other tools to support civic learning. The initiative also developed resources for middle school students.

High school law course materials, Supreme Court of the United States in the Classroom program, and rule of law education curriculum.

Collection of documents that focus on specific issues in American civic history. Each collection has an introduction that provides necessary context and three sets of study questions. Each of the documents is annotated with footnotes that provide biographical information on document authors and identify obscure words, events, or individuals.

Supporting the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning

This page contains some of the strongest resources for incorporating each of the Six Proven Practices of Effective Civic Learning.

The California Courts recognize and celebrate public schools' efforts to engage students in civic learning through their annual Civic Learning Awards . Co-sponsored by Chief Justice Cantil-Sakauye. Seventy-five schools earned awards in 2020. Schools seeking to earn an award may also refer to this list of resources as they set up or enhance their civic learning programs.

Instruction in Government, History, Law, Democracy

Schools can offer courses on civics, government, history, and law, in an effort to encourage better-informed citizens. The below resources include vetted, easy-to-implement curricula to support these courses.

Current Events and Controversial Issues

Effective classroom discussions of current events and controversial issues can increase student interest in government. The below resources provide a variety of options for facilitating these types of engaging discussions.

Service-Learning

Service-learning opportunities provide ways for students and the community to come together to develop habits of community engagement. These resources can help educators facilitate projects, while also tying them back to the classroom.

Extracurricular Activities

Student-led volunteer projects that occur outside of the classroom can also teach skills in collaboration and civic participation. The below organizations provide resources and ongoing support for students, teachers, administrators, and families.

Student Participation in School Governance

Giving students a voice can also help increase understanding and appreciation of the intricacies of the democratic process as it also teaches key behaviors of citizenship. These organizations provide guidance and support for schools implementing a structure for student voice in school governance.

Simulations

Simulations allow students to simulate adult civic roles and offer a unique, deep civic learning experience. Some of these programs use role-playing games to simulate government, helping students participate in processes such as national elections.

Resources for Students

The below resources are especially helpful for students looking to become more civically engaged.

Student Institutes and Conferences

While not officially part of the Six Proven Practices, participation in institutes and conferences offer additional chances for students to engage first-hand in a way that supports overall civic engagement.

Programs to Support Student Engagement

The below organizations can help support students who seek to enhance civic learning and engagement on school campuses. In light of COVID-19, many of these organizations are providing resources to support civic engagement virtually.

Miscellaneous Tips, Skills, and Ideas

These resources can help students as they carry out their civic engagement projects. Resources include advice on writing professional emails, ideas for community service projects, and helpful checklists to guide projects from start to finish.

This list will grow over time. Have you come across any other helpful guides or tools directed specifically towards helping students carry out the day-to-day work of civic engagement projects? Please share them with the CDE at ssce@cde.ca.gov.

Reminders, guidelines, and samples to help students write a variety of professional emails.

Professional Learning Opportunities for Educators

The 2016 HSS Framework incorporates critical shifts for educators. These shifts include a focus on inquiry-based instruction through innovative teaching and learning practices. The HSS Framework guides educators as they design, implement, and maintain a coherent course of study to teach content; develop inquiry-based critical thinking skills; improve reading comprehension and expository writing ability; and promote an engaged and knowledgeable citizenry in history and the related social sciences.

The Budget Act of 2017 included an allocation of funds for high-quality professional learning and resources for HSS educators and administrators to implement the new framework. Through funding from the CDE, the Sacramento County Office of Education has developed a system of statewide and regional communities of practice to provide meaningful and targeted support in HSS for classroom teachers, paraprofessionals, and site administrators. Representing the four instructional shifts described in the HSS Framework, the Content, Literacy, Inquiry, and Citizenship (CLIC) Project develops and facilitates the many elements integral for successful implementation of the HSS Framework. As part of their work, the CLIC Project hosts a YouTube channel that contains videos to support educators and administrators as they implement the HSS Framework, including videos on fostering student advocacy and classroom approaches to civic learning .

Below is a list of additional professional learning institutes, courses, and other opportunities to support educators as they implement civic learning programs.

External Websites Dedicated to the State Seal of Civic Engagement

The websites listed below have been developed by California organizations that are supporting LEAs to implement the SSCE. These sites are being updated as new resources become available.

California History-Social Science Project Sites

Each of the below CHSSP sites has a variety of resources to support professional learning in civics.

Institutes

Coaching, Seminars, Training Videos, Toolkits

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

# data[].attributes.body
Info and materials to help you with civic

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

Educators, administrators, students, families, community members, and others are encouraged to use these resources to support civic engagement inside and outside the classroom, especially as students work to earn the California State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE). Please use the contact information at the bottom of the page if you have questions, or to learn more about the SSCE.

Distance Learning During COVID-19

Students can still be civically engaged, even in this new and rapidly changing educational landscape. Many of the resources listed on the tabs below can be adapted for distance learning, and some programs are already providing resources designed for a virtual environment. Additionally, the links below contain several resources specifically designed to teach civics through distance learning during the COVID-19 response.

The CHSSP provides History-Social Science (HSS) resources to support teachers engaged in distance learning and parents helping children learn at home, including a parent's guide to History-Social Science (HSS).

The Office of the Governor California Volunteers Program has special opportunities to get involved with the COVID-19 volunteer response.

This page contains comprehensive information about California's COVID-19 response, including ways to become involved in the effort.
CDE Resources to Support Distance Learning
This page aggregates guidance documents, webinars, and content-specific links to support distance learning in a variety of subjects.

This article, published in the Journal of Public Affairs in April 2019, details one professor's development and implementation of a civics project in an online American government course.

These free resources from iCivics include games and toolkits designed for educators and families to use for distance learning.

Street Law provides interactive curriculum and training for teaching young people about the law and government. This list has been updated to include at-home civics learning resources and strategies.

This growing list highlights organizations that are producing and elevating resources to support civic engagement through distance learning.

Foundational Documents for Civic Engagement

In 2013, Former State Superintendent of Public Instruction (SSPI), Tom Torlakson, introduced the Civics Education Initiative. This included a series of programs and resources geared toward revitalizing statewide civic education:

The following documents provide research, case studies, and policy recommendations for improving student civic engagement.

Research and Reports

Published in 2003 as part of a partnership between the Carnegie Corporation, the Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement, this document represented an effort to gather scholars and practitioners to determine the most effective, feasible civic education programs possible. The report serves as the foundation for several other documents in this collection, and marks the beginning of the current national push to improve civic education.

The result of a three-year state-led collaborative effort, the C3 Framework for Social Studies State Standards was developed for states to upgrade their social studies standards, and for local school districts, schools, teachers, and curriculum writers to strengthen their social studies programs. Its objectives are to: (a) enhance the rigor of the social studies disciplines; (b) build critical thinking, problem solving, and participatory skills to become engaged citizens; and (c) align academic programs to the Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts and Literacy in HSS.

This 2020 report was published in the Journal of Social Studies Research to discuss the role of emotion in citizenship and presents an argument for critical affective literacy in civic education classrooms. The report also offers instructional strategies for handling the political emotions of students.

This article outlines the importance of schools promoting equity, social justice, and civic engagement in schools. It also provides an explanation of how the State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE), the Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) process, Multi-Tiered System of Supports and related efforts to incorporate civic engagement standards into the California School Dashboard can help equitable civic empowerment for all students.

This report, published by Educational Testing Service in the leadup to the 2012 presidential election, analyzes how gaps in educational attainment and income indicate fault lines in our democracy by predicting voting and civic engagement rates. The report includes specific data on young adults' civic engagement compared to their income and education, and makes recommendations for schools, colleges, and adult education.

This publication provides several key strategies for advancing civic education system wide based on experiences promoting civic learning and engagement in Chicago, Illinois and Riverside, California.

This 2011 report builds and expands on the findings of the 2003 Civic Mission of Schools. The report updates research on the benefits of civic learning, outlines the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning, and makes policy recommendations for improving civic outcomes.

This article focuses on the idea of "lived civics" as a frame for more effective civic learning by explicitly addressing the interests and experiences of young people through the context of best practices in teaching civics. The article offers ideas on reframing civics content and instruction, and includes a review of contemporary civics literature, principles of lived civics, and reflections for educators to consider.

This study of civic learning in California school districts draws upon LCAPs and district mission statements to assess the degree to which districts are focused on and devoting resources to civic priorities. It provides several key findings based upon the data, and makes recommendations for supporting the SSCE and moving forward with a systemic commitment to, and investment in, civic learning.

This report, published in 2017, adds several complementary streams of research and practice to the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning. Ideas for enhancing civic education with news media literacy education, action civics, social and emotional learning, and school climate reform are included, as well as two case studies of states improving their civic learning plans.
Revitalizing K-12 Civic Learning In California: A Blueprint For Action (PDF)
This report, by the California Task Force on K-12 Civic Learning, was published in August 2014 as a partnership between former SSPI Tom Torlakson and Supreme Court Chief Justice Tani G. Cantil-Sakauye. The report offers system-wide recommendations to improve civic learning, including revising the HSS Content Standards and Framework and improving professional learning opportunities.

Published in 2014 by the Education Commission of States, this guidebook is a resource for teachers, administrators, policymakers, and others who want to put the Six Proven Practices in place but are not sure where to begin. The document highlights research and provides practical suggestions for implementing each practice.

Council is a sharing method, focused on empathy and active listening. It can be effective especially when working on topics such as personal development and strengthening of group dynamics.

This 2013 conference, funded by the Bechtel Foundation, brought together several experts on youth civic development and citizenship education in order to promote civic development and participation for youth from all backgrounds. The report outlines recommendations regarding improving citizenship education nationwide.

General, Comprehensive Resources

These organizations offer a variety of programs to support civic learning at all levels and for a variety of audiences.

Webinars, podcasts, and curriculum to support civic engagement from a global perspective.

Series of civics programs, community partnership opportunities, lesson resources, and other publications.

Extensive array of lesson resources including Bill of Rights in Action, Civics On Call, civic scenarios and simulations, and more.

Wide variety of resources for educators , school leaders, students and families that address racism, anti-semitism, and prejudice throughout history. Key resources include curriculum, strategies, webinars, Teaching with Current Events , the Choosing to Participate Toolkit , and Fostering Civil Discourse: How do We Talk about Issues that Matter .

Classroom activities and lessons, voter registration information, teacher training and resources, school and district resources, and research on civic education.

Program geared towards helping civics educators implement comprehensive civics education programs. Includes lesson plans, an E-Congress, mock elections, research, current events discussion support, and teacher training.

Searchable Resource Databases

These sites include searchable resource databases that provide information for educators, administrators, families, and students.

Database of resources focused on career and technical education lessons. Includes primary sources, lesson plans, strategies, and resources to support Project Based Learning.

Articles, reports, lesson plans and other resources that support civic engagement.

Searchable database of resources dedicated to civic engagement. Search by content or by standard, or play games, check out curriculum units, or plan a civics scope and sequence. They also offer resources to support distance learning.

The National Endowment for the Humanities provides this resource that contains lesson plans, curricula, and full teacher's guides for grades K-12. Search by topic and grade level. Resources are HSS-focused, but also include literature, language arts, arts and culture.

Database focused on lessons for civics, government, and law-related education for K-12 students. Includes simulations, discussions, mock trials, case studies, and other research-based materials. Filter lessons by grade level, lesson topic, strategy, or standard.

Resources Targeted by Grade Level or Function

Below are recommended resources organized by grade level (kindergarten through grade eight [K-8], and grades nine through twelve [9-12]). Please keep in mind that many resources can span multiple grade levels based on individual student needs, and educators should review and adapt all resources before implementing them.

Resources for Kindergarten through Grade Eight

Even the youngest students can become civically engaged! The following resources can help K-8 students get excited about civics.

Apprentice-level learning adventures geared at teaching kids ages four through eight about the U.S. government.

One-day workshops for students and advisors to focus on teamwork and building ideas for effective student governance.

Elementary schools are encouraged to apply for Civic Learning Awards and participate in the Judges in the Classroom Program. Lesson resources are also available for elementary students on the Digital Chalkboard.

A wide range of short articles on various topics in world history, American history, and government. Also includes a series of biographies on dozens of influential individuals.

Field trips designed for kindergarten through grade two (K-2) students focusing on fundamental principles of democracy.

Students can choose from a variety of games ranging in length from 0-30+ minutes on topics such as voting, arguing Supreme Court cases, and international diplomacy.

Interdisciplinary lesson resources that use literacy and mock trials to teach key principles of civics. Some lessons are created for students in grades four and five.

Series of lessons that teach about the electoral process and encourage citizenship in the classroom, school, home and community.
Rendell Center for Civics and Civic Engagement Literature-Based Mock Trials
Lesson plans focused on teaching the skills of civil discourse when discussing social justice issues, designed for a K-2 audience.

Resources for Grades Nine through Twelve

These resources are appropriate for students primarily in high school, although many can be adapted for grades 6-8.

Information about SOS initiatives to educate and engage young Californian's in the democratic process, including programs to pre-register to vote at age 16, High School Voter Education Weeks, California Student Mock Elections, and guidance for school administrators and teachers.

An online resource for studying democracy, designed for use by teachers, professors, and college and secondary students. Includes information on essential principles of democracy, a study guide for democracy, and comparative information on the study of freedom internationally.

Curriculum for high school teachers, including an action project, research and blogging, democracy in action, and infographics.

The Institute for Local Government's PYLG units focus on roles, responsibilities, and processes of local government.

Funded by the S.D. Bechtel, Jr. Foundation, the Action Civics initiative worked to civic awareness and engagement in 14 middle and high schools in the Sacramento region. This site includes resources to support professional development provided through the program and other tools to support civic learning. The initiative also developed resources for middle school students.

High school law course materials, Supreme Court of the United States in the Classroom program, and rule of law education curriculum.

Collection of documents that focus on specific issues in American civic history. Each collection has an introduction that provides necessary context and three sets of study questions. Each of the documents is annotated with footnotes that provide biographical information on document authors and identify obscure words, events, or individuals.

Supporting the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning

This page contains some of the strongest resources for incorporating each of the Six Proven Practices of Effective Civic Learning.

The California Courts recognize and celebrate public schools' efforts to engage students in civic learning through their annual Civic Learning Awards . Co-sponsored by Chief Justice Cantil-Sakauye. Seventy-five schools earned awards in 2020. Schools seeking to earn an award may also refer to this list of resources as they set up or enhance their civic learning programs.

Instruction in Government, History, Law, Democracy

Schools can offer courses on civics, government, history, and law, in an effort to encourage better-informed citizens. The below resources include vetted, easy-to-implement curricula to support these courses.

Current Events and Controversial Issues

Effective classroom discussions of current events and controversial issues can increase student interest in government. The below resources provide a variety of options for facilitating these types of engaging discussions.

Service-Learning

Service-learning opportunities provide ways for students and the community to come together to develop habits of community engagement. These resources can help educators facilitate projects, while also tying them back to the classroom.

Extracurricular Activities

Student-led volunteer projects that occur outside of the classroom can also teach skills in collaboration and civic participation. The below organizations provide resources and ongoing support for students, teachers, administrators, and families.

Student Participation in School Governance

Giving students a voice can also help increase understanding and appreciation of the intricacies of the democratic process as it also teaches key behaviors of citizenship. These organizations provide guidance and support for schools implementing a structure for student voice in school governance.

Simulations

Simulations allow students to simulate adult civic roles and offer a unique, deep civic learning experience. Some of these programs use role-playing games to simulate government, helping students participate in processes such as national elections.

Resources for Students

The below resources are especially helpful for students looking to become more civically engaged.

Student Institutes and Conferences

While not officially part of the Six Proven Practices, participation in institutes and conferences offer additional chances for students to engage first-hand in a way that supports overall civic engagement.

Programs to Support Student Engagement

The below organizations can help support students who seek to enhance civic learning and engagement on school campuses. In light of COVID-19, many of these organizations are providing resources to support civic engagement virtually.

Miscellaneous Tips, Skills, and Ideas

These resources can help students as they carry out their civic engagement projects. Resources include advice on writing professional emails, ideas for community service projects, and helpful checklists to guide projects from start to finish.

This list will grow over time. Have you come across any other helpful guides or tools directed specifically towards helping students carry out the day-to-day work of civic engagement projects? Please share them with the CDE at ssce@cde.ca.gov.

Reminders, guidelines, and samples to help students write a variety of professional emails.

Professional Learning Opportunities for Educators

The 2016 HSS Framework incorporates critical shifts for educators. These shifts include a focus on inquiry-based instruction through innovative teaching and learning practices. The HSS Framework guides educators as they design, implement, and maintain a coherent course of study to teach content; develop inquiry-based critical thinking skills; improve reading comprehension and expository writing ability; and promote an engaged and knowledgeable citizenry in history and the related social sciences.

The Budget Act of 2017 included an allocation of funds for high-quality professional learning and resources for HSS educators and administrators to implement the new framework. Through funding from the CDE, the Sacramento County Office of Education has developed a system of statewide and regional communities of practice to provide meaningful and targeted support in HSS for classroom teachers, paraprofessionals, and site administrators. Representing the four instructional shifts described in the HSS Framework, the Content, Literacy, Inquiry, and Citizenship (CLIC) Project develops and facilitates the many elements integral for successful implementation of the HSS Framework. As part of their work, the CLIC Project hosts a YouTube channel that contains videos to support educators and administrators as they implement the HSS Framework, including videos on fostering student advocacy and classroom approaches to civic learning .

Below is a list of additional professional learning institutes, courses, and other opportunities to support educators as they implement civic learning programs.

External Websites Dedicated to the State Seal of Civic Engagement

The websites listed below have been developed by California organizations that are supporting LEAs to implement the SSCE. These sites are being updated as new resources become available.

California History-Social Science Project Sites

Each of the below CHSSP sites has a variety of resources to support professional learning in civics.

Institutes

Coaching, Seminars, Training Videos, Toolkits

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

# data[].attributes.body
Info and materials to help you with civ

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

Educators, administrators, students, families, community members, and others are encouraged to use these resources to support civic engagement inside and outside the classroom, especially as students work to earn the California State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE). Please use the contact information at the bottom of the page if you have questions, or to learn more about the SSCE.

Distance Learning During COVID-19

Students can still be civically engaged, even in this new and rapidly changing educational landscape. Many of the resources listed on the tabs below can be adapted for distance learning, and some programs are already providing resources designed for a virtual environment. Additionally, the links below contain several resources specifically designed to teach civics through distance learning during the COVID-19 response.

The CHSSP provides History-Social Science (HSS) resources to support teachers engaged in distance learning and parents helping children learn at home, including a parent's guide to History-Social Science (HSS).

The Office of the Governor California Volunteers Program has special opportunities to get involved with the COVID-19 volunteer response.

This page contains comprehensive information about California's COVID-19 response, including ways to become involved in the effort.
CDE Resources to Support Distance Learning
This page aggregates guidance documents, webinars, and content-specific links to support distance learning in a variety of subjects.

This article, published in the Journal of Public Affairs in April 2019, details one professor's development and implementation of a civics project in an online American government course.

These free resources from iCivics include games and toolkits designed for educators and families to use for distance learning.

Street Law provides interactive curriculum and training for teaching young people about the law and government. This list has been updated to include at-home civics learning resources and strategies.

This growing list highlights organizations that are producing and elevating resources to support civic engagement through distance learning.

Foundational Documents for Civic Engagement

In 2013, Former State Superintendent of Public Instruction (SSPI), Tom Torlakson, introduced the Civics Education Initiative. This included a series of programs and resources geared toward revitalizing statewide civic education:

The following documents provide research, case studies, and policy recommendations for improving student civic engagement.

Research and Reports

Published in 2003 as part of a partnership between the Carnegie Corporation, the Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement, this document represented an effort to gather scholars and practitioners to determine the most effective, feasible civic education programs possible. The report serves as the foundation for several other documents in this collection, and marks the beginning of the current national push to improve civic education.

The result of a three-year state-led collaborative effort, the C3 Framework for Social Studies State Standards was developed for states to upgrade their social studies standards, and for local school districts, schools, teachers, and curriculum writers to strengthen their social studies programs. Its objectives are to: (a) enhance the rigor of the social studies disciplines; (b) build critical thinking, problem solving, and participatory skills to become engaged citizens; and (c) align academic programs to the Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts and Literacy in HSS.

This 2020 report was published in the Journal of Social Studies Research to discuss the role of emotion in citizenship and presents an argument for critical affective literacy in civic education classrooms. The report also offers instructional strategies for handling the political emotions of students.

This article outlines the importance of schools promoting equity, social justice, and civic engagement in schools. It also provides an explanation of how the State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE), the Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) process, Multi-Tiered System of Supports and related efforts to incorporate civic engagement standards into the California School Dashboard can help equitable civic empowerment for all students.

This report, published by Educational Testing Service in the leadup to the 2012 presidential election, analyzes how gaps in educational attainment and income indicate fault lines in our democracy by predicting voting and civic engagement rates. The report includes specific data on young adults' civic engagement compared to their income and education, and makes recommendations for schools, colleges, and adult education.

This publication provides several key strategies for advancing civic education system wide based on experiences promoting civic learning and engagement in Chicago, Illinois and Riverside, California.

This 2011 report builds and expands on the findings of the 2003 Civic Mission of Schools. The report updates research on the benefits of civic learning, outlines the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning, and makes policy recommendations for improving civic outcomes.

This article focuses on the idea of "lived civics" as a frame for more effective civic learning by explicitly addressing the interests and experiences of young people through the context of best practices in teaching civics. The article offers ideas on reframing civics content and instruction, and includes a review of contemporary civics literature, principles of lived civics, and reflections for educators to consider.

This study of civic learning in California school districts draws upon LCAPs and district mission statements to assess the degree to which districts are focused on and devoting resources to civic priorities. It provides several key findings based upon the data, and makes recommendations for supporting the SSCE and moving forward with a systemic commitment to, and investment in, civic learning.

This report, published in 2017, adds several complementary streams of research and practice to the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning. Ideas for enhancing civic education with news media literacy education, action civics, social and emotional learning, and school climate reform are included, as well as two case studies of states improving their civic learning plans.
Revitalizing K-12 Civic Learning In California: A Blueprint For Action (PDF)
This report, by the California Task Force on K-12 Civic Learning, was published in August 2014 as a partnership between former SSPI Tom Torlakson and Supreme Court Chief Justice Tani G. Cantil-Sakauye. The report offers system-wide recommendations to improve civic learning, including revising the HSS Content Standards and Framework and improving professional learning opportunities.

Published in 2014 by the Education Commission of States, this guidebook is a resource for teachers, administrators, policymakers, and others who want to put the Six Proven Practices in place but are not sure where to begin. The document highlights research and provides practical suggestions for implementing each practice.

Council is a sharing method, focused on empathy and active listening. It can be effective especially when working on topics such as personal development and strengthening of group dynamics.

This 2013 conference, funded by the Bechtel Foundation, brought together several experts on youth civic development and citizenship education in order to promote civic development and participation for youth from all backgrounds. The report outlines recommendations regarding improving citizenship education nationwide.

General, Comprehensive Resources

These organizations offer a variety of programs to support civic learning at all levels and for a variety of audiences.

Webinars, podcasts, and curriculum to support civic engagement from a global perspective.

Series of civics programs, community partnership opportunities, lesson resources, and other publications.

Extensive array of lesson resources including Bill of Rights in Action, Civics On Call, civic scenarios and simulations, and more.

Wide variety of resources for educators , school leaders, students and families that address racism, anti-semitism, and prejudice throughout history. Key resources include curriculum, strategies, webinars, Teaching with Current Events , the Choosing to Participate Toolkit , and Fostering Civil Discourse: How do We Talk about Issues that Matter .

Classroom activities and lessons, voter registration information, teacher training and resources, school and district resources, and research on civic education.

Program geared towards helping civics educators implement comprehensive civics education programs. Includes lesson plans, an E-Congress, mock elections, research, current events discussion support, and teacher training.

Searchable Resource Databases

These sites include searchable resource databases that provide information for educators, administrators, families, and students.

Database of resources focused on career and technical education lessons. Includes primary sources, lesson plans, strategies, and resources to support Project Based Learning.

Articles, reports, lesson plans and other resources that support civic engagement.

Searchable database of resources dedicated to civic engagement. Search by content or by standard, or play games, check out curriculum units, or plan a civics scope and sequence. They also offer resources to support distance learning.

The National Endowment for the Humanities provides this resource that contains lesson plans, curricula, and full teacher's guides for grades K-12. Search by topic and grade level. Resources are HSS-focused, but also include literature, language arts, arts and culture.

Database focused on lessons for civics, government, and law-related education for K-12 students. Includes simulations, discussions, mock trials, case studies, and other research-based materials. Filter lessons by grade level, lesson topic, strategy, or standard.

Resources Targeted by Grade Level or Function

Below are recommended resources organized by grade level (kindergarten through grade eight [K-8], and grades nine through twelve [9-12]). Please keep in mind that many resources can span multiple grade levels based on individual student needs, and educators should review and adapt all resources before implementing them.

Resources for Kindergarten through Grade Eight

Even the youngest students can become civically engaged! The following resources can help K-8 students get excited about civics.

Apprentice-level learning adventures geared at teaching kids ages four through eight about the U.S. government.

One-day workshops for students and advisors to focus on teamwork and building ideas for effective student governance.

Elementary schools are encouraged to apply for Civic Learning Awards and participate in the Judges in the Classroom Program. Lesson resources are also available for elementary students on the Digital Chalkboard.

A wide range of short articles on various topics in world history, American history, and government. Also includes a series of biographies on dozens of influential individuals.

Field trips designed for kindergarten through grade two (K-2) students focusing on fundamental principles of democracy.

Students can choose from a variety of games ranging in length from 0-30+ minutes on topics such as voting, arguing Supreme Court cases, and international diplomacy.

Interdisciplinary lesson resources that use literacy and mock trials to teach key principles of civics. Some lessons are created for students in grades four and five.

Series of lessons that teach about the electoral process and encourage citizenship in the classroom, school, home and community.
Rendell Center for Civics and Civic Engagement Literature-Based Mock Trials
Lesson plans focused on teaching the skills of civil discourse when discussing social justice issues, designed for a K-2 audience.

Resources for Grades Nine through Twelve

These resources are appropriate for students primarily in high school, although many can be adapted for grades 6-8.

Information about SOS initiatives to educate and engage young Californian's in the democratic process, including programs to pre-register to vote at age 16, High School Voter Education Weeks, California Student Mock Elections, and guidance for school administrators and teachers.

An online resource for studying democracy, designed for use by teachers, professors, and college and secondary students. Includes information on essential principles of democracy, a study guide for democracy, and comparative information on the study of freedom internationally.

Curriculum for high school teachers, including an action project, research and blogging, democracy in action, and infographics.

The Institute for Local Government's PYLG units focus on roles, responsibilities, and processes of local government.

Funded by the S.D. Bechtel, Jr. Foundation, the Action Civics initiative worked to civic awareness and engagement in 14 middle and high schools in the Sacramento region. This site includes resources to support professional development provided through the program and other tools to support civic learning. The initiative also developed resources for middle school students.

High school law course materials, Supreme Court of the United States in the Classroom program, and rule of law education curriculum.

Collection of documents that focus on specific issues in American civic history. Each collection has an introduction that provides necessary context and three sets of study questions. Each of the documents is annotated with footnotes that provide biographical information on document authors and identify obscure words, events, or individuals.

Supporting the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning

This page contains some of the strongest resources for incorporating each of the Six Proven Practices of Effective Civic Learning.

The California Courts recognize and celebrate public schools' efforts to engage students in civic learning through their annual Civic Learning Awards . Co-sponsored by Chief Justice Cantil-Sakauye. Seventy-five schools earned awards in 2020. Schools seeking to earn an award may also refer to this list of resources as they set up or enhance their civic learning programs.

Instruction in Government, History, Law, Democracy

Schools can offer courses on civics, government, history, and law, in an effort to encourage better-informed citizens. The below resources include vetted, easy-to-implement curricula to support these courses.

Current Events and Controversial Issues

Effective classroom discussions of current events and controversial issues can increase student interest in government. The below resources provide a variety of options for facilitating these types of engaging discussions.

Service-Learning

Service-learning opportunities provide ways for students and the community to come together to develop habits of community engagement. These resources can help educators facilitate projects, while also tying them back to the classroom.

Extracurricular Activities

Student-led volunteer projects that occur outside of the classroom can also teach skills in collaboration and civic participation. The below organizations provide resources and ongoing support for students, teachers, administrators, and families.

Student Participation in School Governance

Giving students a voice can also help increase understanding and appreciation of the intricacies of the democratic process as it also teaches key behaviors of citizenship. These organizations provide guidance and support for schools implementing a structure for student voice in school governance.

Simulations

Simulations allow students to simulate adult civic roles and offer a unique, deep civic learning experience. Some of these programs use role-playing games to simulate government, helping students participate in processes such as national elections.

Resources for Students

The below resources are especially helpful for students looking to become more civically engaged.

Student Institutes and Conferences

While not officially part of the Six Proven Practices, participation in institutes and conferences offer additional chances for students to engage first-hand in a way that supports overall civic engagement.

Programs to Support Student Engagement

The below organizations can help support students who seek to enhance civic learning and engagement on school campuses. In light of COVID-19, many of these organizations are providing resources to support civic engagement virtually.

Miscellaneous Tips, Skills, and Ideas

These resources can help students as they carry out their civic engagement projects. Resources include advice on writing professional emails, ideas for community service projects, and helpful checklists to guide projects from start to finish.

This list will grow over time. Have you come across any other helpful guides or tools directed specifically towards helping students carry out the day-to-day work of civic engagement projects? Please share them with the CDE at ssce@cde.ca.gov.

Reminders, guidelines, and samples to help students write a variety of professional emails.

Professional Learning Opportunities for Educators

The 2016 HSS Framework incorporates critical shifts for educators. These shifts include a focus on inquiry-based instruction through innovative teaching and learning practices. The HSS Framework guides educators as they design, implement, and maintain a coherent course of study to teach content; develop inquiry-based critical thinking skills; improve reading comprehension and expository writing ability; and promote an engaged and knowledgeable citizenry in history and the related social sciences.

The Budget Act of 2017 included an allocation of funds for high-quality professional learning and resources for HSS educators and administrators to implement the new framework. Through funding from the CDE, the Sacramento County Office of Education has developed a system of statewide and regional communities of practice to provide meaningful and targeted support in HSS for classroom teachers, paraprofessionals, and site administrators. Representing the four instructional shifts described in the HSS Framework, the Content, Literacy, Inquiry, and Citizenship (CLIC) Project develops and facilitates the many elements integral for successful implementation of the HSS Framework. As part of their work, the CLIC Project hosts a YouTube channel that contains videos to support educators and administrators as they implement the HSS Framework, including videos on fostering student advocacy and classroom approaches to civic learning .

Below is a list of additional professional learning institutes, courses, and other opportunities to support educators as they implement civic learning programs.

External Websites Dedicated to the State Seal of Civic Engagement

The websites listed below have been developed by California organizations that are supporting LEAs to implement the SSCE. These sites are being updated as new resources become available.

California History-Social Science Project Sites

Each of the below CHSSP sites has a variety of resources to support professional learning in civics.

Institutes

Coaching, Seminars, Training Videos, Toolkits

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President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

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Info and materials to help you with c

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President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

Educators, administrators, students, families, community members, and others are encouraged to use these resources to support civic engagement inside and outside the classroom, especially as students work to earn the California State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE). Please use the contact information at the bottom of the page if you have questions, or to learn more about the SSCE.

Distance Learning During COVID-19

Students can still be civically engaged, even in this new and rapidly changing educational landscape. Many of the resources listed on the tabs below can be adapted for distance learning, and some programs are already providing resources designed for a virtual environment. Additionally, the links below contain several resources specifically designed to teach civics through distance learning during the COVID-19 response.

The CHSSP provides History-Social Science (HSS) resources to support teachers engaged in distance learning and parents helping children learn at home, including a parent's guide to History-Social Science (HSS).

The Office of the Governor California Volunteers Program has special opportunities to get involved with the COVID-19 volunteer response.

This page contains comprehensive information about California's COVID-19 response, including ways to become involved in the effort.
CDE Resources to Support Distance Learning
This page aggregates guidance documents, webinars, and content-specific links to support distance learning in a variety of subjects.

This article, published in the Journal of Public Affairs in April 2019, details one professor's development and implementation of a civics project in an online American government course.

These free resources from iCivics include games and toolkits designed for educators and families to use for distance learning.

Street Law provides interactive curriculum and training for teaching young people about the law and government. This list has been updated to include at-home civics learning resources and strategies.

This growing list highlights organizations that are producing and elevating resources to support civic engagement through distance learning.

Foundational Documents for Civic Engagement

In 2013, Former State Superintendent of Public Instruction (SSPI), Tom Torlakson, introduced the Civics Education Initiative. This included a series of programs and resources geared toward revitalizing statewide civic education:

The following documents provide research, case studies, and policy recommendations for improving student civic engagement.

Research and Reports

Published in 2003 as part of a partnership between the Carnegie Corporation, the Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement, this document represented an effort to gather scholars and practitioners to determine the most effective, feasible civic education programs possible. The report serves as the foundation for several other documents in this collection, and marks the beginning of the current national push to improve civic education.

The result of a three-year state-led collaborative effort, the C3 Framework for Social Studies State Standards was developed for states to upgrade their social studies standards, and for local school districts, schools, teachers, and curriculum writers to strengthen their social studies programs. Its objectives are to: (a) enhance the rigor of the social studies disciplines; (b) build critical thinking, problem solving, and participatory skills to become engaged citizens; and (c) align academic programs to the Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts and Literacy in HSS.

This 2020 report was published in the Journal of Social Studies Research to discuss the role of emotion in citizenship and presents an argument for critical affective literacy in civic education classrooms. The report also offers instructional strategies for handling the political emotions of students.

This article outlines the importance of schools promoting equity, social justice, and civic engagement in schools. It also provides an explanation of how the State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE), the Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) process, Multi-Tiered System of Supports and related efforts to incorporate civic engagement standards into the California School Dashboard can help equitable civic empowerment for all students.

This report, published by Educational Testing Service in the leadup to the 2012 presidential election, analyzes how gaps in educational attainment and income indicate fault lines in our democracy by predicting voting and civic engagement rates. The report includes specific data on young adults' civic engagement compared to their income and education, and makes recommendations for schools, colleges, and adult education.

This publication provides several key strategies for advancing civic education system wide based on experiences promoting civic learning and engagement in Chicago, Illinois and Riverside, California.

This 2011 report builds and expands on the findings of the 2003 Civic Mission of Schools. The report updates research on the benefits of civic learning, outlines the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning, and makes policy recommendations for improving civic outcomes.

This article focuses on the idea of "lived civics" as a frame for more effective civic learning by explicitly addressing the interests and experiences of young people through the context of best practices in teaching civics. The article offers ideas on reframing civics content and instruction, and includes a review of contemporary civics literature, principles of lived civics, and reflections for educators to consider.

This study of civic learning in California school districts draws upon LCAPs and district mission statements to assess the degree to which districts are focused on and devoting resources to civic priorities. It provides several key findings based upon the data, and makes recommendations for supporting the SSCE and moving forward with a systemic commitment to, and investment in, civic learning.

This report, published in 2017, adds several complementary streams of research and practice to the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning. Ideas for enhancing civic education with news media literacy education, action civics, social and emotional learning, and school climate reform are included, as well as two case studies of states improving their civic learning plans.
Revitalizing K-12 Civic Learning In California: A Blueprint For Action (PDF)
This report, by the California Task Force on K-12 Civic Learning, was published in August 2014 as a partnership between former SSPI Tom Torlakson and Supreme Court Chief Justice Tani G. Cantil-Sakauye. The report offers system-wide recommendations to improve civic learning, including revising the HSS Content Standards and Framework and improving professional learning opportunities.

Published in 2014 by the Education Commission of States, this guidebook is a resource for teachers, administrators, policymakers, and others who want to put the Six Proven Practices in place but are not sure where to begin. The document highlights research and provides practical suggestions for implementing each practice.

Council is a sharing method, focused on empathy and active listening. It can be effective especially when working on topics such as personal development and strengthening of group dynamics.

This 2013 conference, funded by the Bechtel Foundation, brought together several experts on youth civic development and citizenship education in order to promote civic development and participation for youth from all backgrounds. The report outlines recommendations regarding improving citizenship education nationwide.

General, Comprehensive Resources

These organizations offer a variety of programs to support civic learning at all levels and for a variety of audiences.

Webinars, podcasts, and curriculum to support civic engagement from a global perspective.

Series of civics programs, community partnership opportunities, lesson resources, and other publications.

Extensive array of lesson resources including Bill of Rights in Action, Civics On Call, civic scenarios and simulations, and more.

Wide variety of resources for educators , school leaders, students and families that address racism, anti-semitism, and prejudice throughout history. Key resources include curriculum, strategies, webinars, Teaching with Current Events , the Choosing to Participate Toolkit , and Fostering Civil Discourse: How do We Talk about Issues that Matter .

Classroom activities and lessons, voter registration information, teacher training and resources, school and district resources, and research on civic education.

Program geared towards helping civics educators implement comprehensive civics education programs. Includes lesson plans, an E-Congress, mock elections, research, current events discussion support, and teacher training.

Searchable Resource Databases

These sites include searchable resource databases that provide information for educators, administrators, families, and students.

Database of resources focused on career and technical education lessons. Includes primary sources, lesson plans, strategies, and resources to support Project Based Learning.

Articles, reports, lesson plans and other resources that support civic engagement.

Searchable database of resources dedicated to civic engagement. Search by content or by standard, or play games, check out curriculum units, or plan a civics scope and sequence. They also offer resources to support distance learning.

The National Endowment for the Humanities provides this resource that contains lesson plans, curricula, and full teacher's guides for grades K-12. Search by topic and grade level. Resources are HSS-focused, but also include literature, language arts, arts and culture.

Database focused on lessons for civics, government, and law-related education for K-12 students. Includes simulations, discussions, mock trials, case studies, and other research-based materials. Filter lessons by grade level, lesson topic, strategy, or standard.

Resources Targeted by Grade Level or Function

Below are recommended resources organized by grade level (kindergarten through grade eight [K-8], and grades nine through twelve [9-12]). Please keep in mind that many resources can span multiple grade levels based on individual student needs, and educators should review and adapt all resources before implementing them.

Resources for Kindergarten through Grade Eight

Even the youngest students can become civically engaged! The following resources can help K-8 students get excited about civics.

Apprentice-level learning adventures geared at teaching kids ages four through eight about the U.S. government.

One-day workshops for students and advisors to focus on teamwork and building ideas for effective student governance.

Elementary schools are encouraged to apply for Civic Learning Awards and participate in the Judges in the Classroom Program. Lesson resources are also available for elementary students on the Digital Chalkboard.

A wide range of short articles on various topics in world history, American history, and government. Also includes a series of biographies on dozens of influential individuals.

Field trips designed for kindergarten through grade two (K-2) students focusing on fundamental principles of democracy.

Students can choose from a variety of games ranging in length from 0-30+ minutes on topics such as voting, arguing Supreme Court cases, and international diplomacy.

Interdisciplinary lesson resources that use literacy and mock trials to teach key principles of civics. Some lessons are created for students in grades four and five.

Series of lessons that teach about the electoral process and encourage citizenship in the classroom, school, home and community.
Rendell Center for Civics and Civic Engagement Literature-Based Mock Trials
Lesson plans focused on teaching the skills of civil discourse when discussing social justice issues, designed for a K-2 audience.

Resources for Grades Nine through Twelve

These resources are appropriate for students primarily in high school, although many can be adapted for grades 6-8.

Information about SOS initiatives to educate and engage young Californian's in the democratic process, including programs to pre-register to vote at age 16, High School Voter Education Weeks, California Student Mock Elections, and guidance for school administrators and teachers.

An online resource for studying democracy, designed for use by teachers, professors, and college and secondary students. Includes information on essential principles of democracy, a study guide for democracy, and comparative information on the study of freedom internationally.

Curriculum for high school teachers, including an action project, research and blogging, democracy in action, and infographics.

The Institute for Local Government's PYLG units focus on roles, responsibilities, and processes of local government.

Funded by the S.D. Bechtel, Jr. Foundation, the Action Civics initiative worked to civic awareness and engagement in 14 middle and high schools in the Sacramento region. This site includes resources to support professional development provided through the program and other tools to support civic learning. The initiative also developed resources for middle school students.

High school law course materials, Supreme Court of the United States in the Classroom program, and rule of law education curriculum.

Collection of documents that focus on specific issues in American civic history. Each collection has an introduction that provides necessary context and three sets of study questions. Each of the documents is annotated with footnotes that provide biographical information on document authors and identify obscure words, events, or individuals.

Supporting the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning

This page contains some of the strongest resources for incorporating each of the Six Proven Practices of Effective Civic Learning.

The California Courts recognize and celebrate public schools' efforts to engage students in civic learning through their annual Civic Learning Awards . Co-sponsored by Chief Justice Cantil-Sakauye. Seventy-five schools earned awards in 2020. Schools seeking to earn an award may also refer to this list of resources as they set up or enhance their civic learning programs.

Instruction in Government, History, Law, Democracy

Schools can offer courses on civics, government, history, and law, in an effort to encourage better-informed citizens. The below resources include vetted, easy-to-implement curricula to support these courses.

Current Events and Controversial Issues

Effective classroom discussions of current events and controversial issues can increase student interest in government. The below resources provide a variety of options for facilitating these types of engaging discussions.

Service-Learning

Service-learning opportunities provide ways for students and the community to come together to develop habits of community engagement. These resources can help educators facilitate projects, while also tying them back to the classroom.

Extracurricular Activities

Student-led volunteer projects that occur outside of the classroom can also teach skills in collaboration and civic participation. The below organizations provide resources and ongoing support for students, teachers, administrators, and families.

Student Participation in School Governance

Giving students a voice can also help increase understanding and appreciation of the intricacies of the democratic process as it also teaches key behaviors of citizenship. These organizations provide guidance and support for schools implementing a structure for student voice in school governance.

Simulations

Simulations allow students to simulate adult civic roles and offer a unique, deep civic learning experience. Some of these programs use role-playing games to simulate government, helping students participate in processes such as national elections.

Resources for Students

The below resources are especially helpful for students looking to become more civically engaged.

Student Institutes and Conferences

While not officially part of the Six Proven Practices, participation in institutes and conferences offer additional chances for students to engage first-hand in a way that supports overall civic engagement.

Programs to Support Student Engagement

The below organizations can help support students who seek to enhance civic learning and engagement on school campuses. In light of COVID-19, many of these organizations are providing resources to support civic engagement virtually.

Miscellaneous Tips, Skills, and Ideas

These resources can help students as they carry out their civic engagement projects. Resources include advice on writing professional emails, ideas for community service projects, and helpful checklists to guide projects from start to finish.

This list will grow over time. Have you come across any other helpful guides or tools directed specifically towards helping students carry out the day-to-day work of civic engagement projects? Please share them with the CDE at ssce@cde.ca.gov.

Reminders, guidelines, and samples to help students write a variety of professional emails.

Professional Learning Opportunities for Educators

The 2016 HSS Framework incorporates critical shifts for educators. These shifts include a focus on inquiry-based instruction through innovative teaching and learning practices. The HSS Framework guides educators as they design, implement, and maintain a coherent course of study to teach content; develop inquiry-based critical thinking skills; improve reading comprehension and expository writing ability; and promote an engaged and knowledgeable citizenry in history and the related social sciences.

The Budget Act of 2017 included an allocation of funds for high-quality professional learning and resources for HSS educators and administrators to implement the new framework. Through funding from the CDE, the Sacramento County Office of Education has developed a system of statewide and regional communities of practice to provide meaningful and targeted support in HSS for classroom teachers, paraprofessionals, and site administrators. Representing the four instructional shifts described in the HSS Framework, the Content, Literacy, Inquiry, and Citizenship (CLIC) Project develops and facilitates the many elements integral for successful implementation of the HSS Framework. As part of their work, the CLIC Project hosts a YouTube channel that contains videos to support educators and administrators as they implement the HSS Framework, including videos on fostering student advocacy and classroom approaches to civic learning .

Below is a list of additional professional learning institutes, courses, and other opportunities to support educators as they implement civic learning programs.

External Websites Dedicated to the State Seal of Civic Engagement

The websites listed below have been developed by California organizations that are supporting LEAs to implement the SSCE. These sites are being updated as new resources become available.

California History-Social Science Project Sites

Each of the below CHSSP sites has a variety of resources to support professional learning in civics.

Institutes

Coaching, Seminars, Training Videos, Toolkits

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

# data[].attributes.body
Info and materials to help you wit

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

Educators, administrators, students, families, community members, and others are encouraged to use these resources to support civic engagement inside and outside the classroom, especially as students work to earn the California State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE). Please use the contact information at the bottom of the page if you have questions, or to learn more about the SSCE.

Distance Learning During COVID-19

Students can still be civically engaged, even in this new and rapidly changing educational landscape. Many of the resources listed on the tabs below can be adapted for distance learning, and some programs are already providing resources designed for a virtual environment. Additionally, the links below contain several resources specifically designed to teach civics through distance learning during the COVID-19 response.

The CHSSP provides History-Social Science (HSS) resources to support teachers engaged in distance learning and parents helping children learn at home, including a parent's guide to History-Social Science (HSS).

The Office of the Governor California Volunteers Program has special opportunities to get involved with the COVID-19 volunteer response.

This page contains comprehensive information about California's COVID-19 response, including ways to become involved in the effort.
CDE Resources to Support Distance Learning
This page aggregates guidance documents, webinars, and content-specific links to support distance learning in a variety of subjects.

This article, published in the Journal of Public Affairs in April 2019, details one professor's development and implementation of a civics project in an online American government course.

These free resources from iCivics include games and toolkits designed for educators and families to use for distance learning.

Street Law provides interactive curriculum and training for teaching young people about the law and government. This list has been updated to include at-home civics learning resources and strategies.

This growing list highlights organizations that are producing and elevating resources to support civic engagement through distance learning.

Foundational Documents for Civic Engagement

In 2013, Former State Superintendent of Public Instruction (SSPI), Tom Torlakson, introduced the Civics Education Initiative. This included a series of programs and resources geared toward revitalizing statewide civic education:

The following documents provide research, case studies, and policy recommendations for improving student civic engagement.

Research and Reports

Published in 2003 as part of a partnership between the Carnegie Corporation, the Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement, this document represented an effort to gather scholars and practitioners to determine the most effective, feasible civic education programs possible. The report serves as the foundation for several other documents in this collection, and marks the beginning of the current national push to improve civic education.

The result of a three-year state-led collaborative effort, the C3 Framework for Social Studies State Standards was developed for states to upgrade their social studies standards, and for local school districts, schools, teachers, and curriculum writers to strengthen their social studies programs. Its objectives are to: (a) enhance the rigor of the social studies disciplines; (b) build critical thinking, problem solving, and participatory skills to become engaged citizens; and (c) align academic programs to the Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts and Literacy in HSS.

This 2020 report was published in the Journal of Social Studies Research to discuss the role of emotion in citizenship and presents an argument for critical affective literacy in civic education classrooms. The report also offers instructional strategies for handling the political emotions of students.

This article outlines the importance of schools promoting equity, social justice, and civic engagement in schools. It also provides an explanation of how the State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE), the Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) process, Multi-Tiered System of Supports and related efforts to incorporate civic engagement standards into the California School Dashboard can help equitable civic empowerment for all students.

This report, published by Educational Testing Service in the leadup to the 2012 presidential election, analyzes how gaps in educational attainment and income indicate fault lines in our democracy by predicting voting and civic engagement rates. The report includes specific data on young adults' civic engagement compared to their income and education, and makes recommendations for schools, colleges, and adult education.

This publication provides several key strategies for advancing civic education system wide based on experiences promoting civic learning and engagement in Chicago, Illinois and Riverside, California.

This 2011 report builds and expands on the findings of the 2003 Civic Mission of Schools. The report updates research on the benefits of civic learning, outlines the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning, and makes policy recommendations for improving civic outcomes.

This article focuses on the idea of "lived civics" as a frame for more effective civic learning by explicitly addressing the interests and experiences of young people through the context of best practices in teaching civics. The article offers ideas on reframing civics content and instruction, and includes a review of contemporary civics literature, principles of lived civics, and reflections for educators to consider.

This study of civic learning in California school districts draws upon LCAPs and district mission statements to assess the degree to which districts are focused on and devoting resources to civic priorities. It provides several key findings based upon the data, and makes recommendations for supporting the SSCE and moving forward with a systemic commitment to, and investment in, civic learning.

This report, published in 2017, adds several complementary streams of research and practice to the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning. Ideas for enhancing civic education with news media literacy education, action civics, social and emotional learning, and school climate reform are included, as well as two case studies of states improving their civic learning plans.
Revitalizing K-12 Civic Learning In California: A Blueprint For Action (PDF)
This report, by the California Task Force on K-12 Civic Learning, was published in August 2014 as a partnership between former SSPI Tom Torlakson and Supreme Court Chief Justice Tani G. Cantil-Sakauye. The report offers system-wide recommendations to improve civic learning, including revising the HSS Content Standards and Framework and improving professional learning opportunities.

Published in 2014 by the Education Commission of States, this guidebook is a resource for teachers, administrators, policymakers, and others who want to put the Six Proven Practices in place but are not sure where to begin. The document highlights research and provides practical suggestions for implementing each practice.

Council is a sharing method, focused on empathy and active listening. It can be effective especially when working on topics such as personal development and strengthening of group dynamics.

This 2013 conference, funded by the Bechtel Foundation, brought together several experts on youth civic development and citizenship education in order to promote civic development and participation for youth from all backgrounds. The report outlines recommendations regarding improving citizenship education nationwide.

General, Comprehensive Resources

These organizations offer a variety of programs to support civic learning at all levels and for a variety of audiences.

Webinars, podcasts, and curriculum to support civic engagement from a global perspective.

Series of civics programs, community partnership opportunities, lesson resources, and other publications.

Extensive array of lesson resources including Bill of Rights in Action, Civics On Call, civic scenarios and simulations, and more.

Wide variety of resources for educators , school leaders, students and families that address racism, anti-semitism, and prejudice throughout history. Key resources include curriculum, strategies, webinars, Teaching with Current Events , the Choosing to Participate Toolkit , and Fostering Civil Discourse: How do We Talk about Issues that Matter .

Classroom activities and lessons, voter registration information, teacher training and resources, school and district resources, and research on civic education.

Program geared towards helping civics educators implement comprehensive civics education programs. Includes lesson plans, an E-Congress, mock elections, research, current events discussion support, and teacher training.

Searchable Resource Databases

These sites include searchable resource databases that provide information for educators, administrators, families, and students.

Database of resources focused on career and technical education lessons. Includes primary sources, lesson plans, strategies, and resources to support Project Based Learning.

Articles, reports, lesson plans and other resources that support civic engagement.

Searchable database of resources dedicated to civic engagement. Search by content or by standard, or play games, check out curriculum units, or plan a civics scope and sequence. They also offer resources to support distance learning.

The National Endowment for the Humanities provides this resource that contains lesson plans, curricula, and full teacher's guides for grades K-12. Search by topic and grade level. Resources are HSS-focused, but also include literature, language arts, arts and culture.

Database focused on lessons for civics, government, and law-related education for K-12 students. Includes simulations, discussions, mock trials, case studies, and other research-based materials. Filter lessons by grade level, lesson topic, strategy, or standard.

Resources Targeted by Grade Level or Function

Below are recommended resources organized by grade level (kindergarten through grade eight [K-8], and grades nine through twelve [9-12]). Please keep in mind that many resources can span multiple grade levels based on individual student needs, and educators should review and adapt all resources before implementing them.

Resources for Kindergarten through Grade Eight

Even the youngest students can become civically engaged! The following resources can help K-8 students get excited about civics.

Apprentice-level learning adventures geared at teaching kids ages four through eight about the U.S. government.

One-day workshops for students and advisors to focus on teamwork and building ideas for effective student governance.

Elementary schools are encouraged to apply for Civic Learning Awards and participate in the Judges in the Classroom Program. Lesson resources are also available for elementary students on the Digital Chalkboard.

A wide range of short articles on various topics in world history, American history, and government. Also includes a series of biographies on dozens of influential individuals.

Field trips designed for kindergarten through grade two (K-2) students focusing on fundamental principles of democracy.

Students can choose from a variety of games ranging in length from 0-30+ minutes on topics such as voting, arguing Supreme Court cases, and international diplomacy.

Interdisciplinary lesson resources that use literacy and mock trials to teach key principles of civics. Some lessons are created for students in grades four and five.

Series of lessons that teach about the electoral process and encourage citizenship in the classroom, school, home and community.
Rendell Center for Civics and Civic Engagement Literature-Based Mock Trials
Lesson plans focused on teaching the skills of civil discourse when discussing social justice issues, designed for a K-2 audience.

Resources for Grades Nine through Twelve

These resources are appropriate for students primarily in high school, although many can be adapted for grades 6-8.

Information about SOS initiatives to educate and engage young Californian's in the democratic process, including programs to pre-register to vote at age 16, High School Voter Education Weeks, California Student Mock Elections, and guidance for school administrators and teachers.

An online resource for studying democracy, designed for use by teachers, professors, and college and secondary students. Includes information on essential principles of democracy, a study guide for democracy, and comparative information on the study of freedom internationally.

Curriculum for high school teachers, including an action project, research and blogging, democracy in action, and infographics.

The Institute for Local Government's PYLG units focus on roles, responsibilities, and processes of local government.

Funded by the S.D. Bechtel, Jr. Foundation, the Action Civics initiative worked to civic awareness and engagement in 14 middle and high schools in the Sacramento region. This site includes resources to support professional development provided through the program and other tools to support civic learning. The initiative also developed resources for middle school students.

High school law course materials, Supreme Court of the United States in the Classroom program, and rule of law education curriculum.

Collection of documents that focus on specific issues in American civic history. Each collection has an introduction that provides necessary context and three sets of study questions. Each of the documents is annotated with footnotes that provide biographical information on document authors and identify obscure words, events, or individuals.

Supporting the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning

This page contains some of the strongest resources for incorporating each of the Six Proven Practices of Effective Civic Learning.

The California Courts recognize and celebrate public schools' efforts to engage students in civic learning through their annual Civic Learning Awards . Co-sponsored by Chief Justice Cantil-Sakauye. Seventy-five schools earned awards in 2020. Schools seeking to earn an award may also refer to this list of resources as they set up or enhance their civic learning programs.

Instruction in Government, History, Law, Democracy

Schools can offer courses on civics, government, history, and law, in an effort to encourage better-informed citizens. The below resources include vetted, easy-to-implement curricula to support these courses.

Current Events and Controversial Issues

Effective classroom discussions of current events and controversial issues can increase student interest in government. The below resources provide a variety of options for facilitating these types of engaging discussions.

Service-Learning

Service-learning opportunities provide ways for students and the community to come together to develop habits of community engagement. These resources can help educators facilitate projects, while also tying them back to the classroom.

Extracurricular Activities

Student-led volunteer projects that occur outside of the classroom can also teach skills in collaboration and civic participation. The below organizations provide resources and ongoing support for students, teachers, administrators, and families.

Student Participation in School Governance

Giving students a voice can also help increase understanding and appreciation of the intricacies of the democratic process as it also teaches key behaviors of citizenship. These organizations provide guidance and support for schools implementing a structure for student voice in school governance.

Simulations

Simulations allow students to simulate adult civic roles and offer a unique, deep civic learning experience. Some of these programs use role-playing games to simulate government, helping students participate in processes such as national elections.

Resources for Students

The below resources are especially helpful for students looking to become more civically engaged.

Student Institutes and Conferences

While not officially part of the Six Proven Practices, participation in institutes and conferences offer additional chances for students to engage first-hand in a way that supports overall civic engagement.

Programs to Support Student Engagement

The below organizations can help support students who seek to enhance civic learning and engagement on school campuses. In light of COVID-19, many of these organizations are providing resources to support civic engagement virtually.

Miscellaneous Tips, Skills, and Ideas

These resources can help students as they carry out their civic engagement projects. Resources include advice on writing professional emails, ideas for community service projects, and helpful checklists to guide projects from start to finish.

This list will grow over time. Have you come across any other helpful guides or tools directed specifically towards helping students carry out the day-to-day work of civic engagement projects? Please share them with the CDE at ssce@cde.ca.gov.

Reminders, guidelines, and samples to help students write a variety of professional emails.

Professional Learning Opportunities for Educators

The 2016 HSS Framework incorporates critical shifts for educators. These shifts include a focus on inquiry-based instruction through innovative teaching and learning practices. The HSS Framework guides educators as they design, implement, and maintain a coherent course of study to teach content; develop inquiry-based critical thinking skills; improve reading comprehension and expository writing ability; and promote an engaged and knowledgeable citizenry in history and the related social sciences.

The Budget Act of 2017 included an allocation of funds for high-quality professional learning and resources for HSS educators and administrators to implement the new framework. Through funding from the CDE, the Sacramento County Office of Education has developed a system of statewide and regional communities of practice to provide meaningful and targeted support in HSS for classroom teachers, paraprofessionals, and site administrators. Representing the four instructional shifts described in the HSS Framework, the Content, Literacy, Inquiry, and Citizenship (CLIC) Project develops and facilitates the many elements integral for successful implementation of the HSS Framework. As part of their work, the CLIC Project hosts a YouTube channel that contains videos to support educators and administrators as they implement the HSS Framework, including videos on fostering student advocacy and classroom approaches to civic learning .

Below is a list of additional professional learning institutes, courses, and other opportunities to support educators as they implement civic learning programs.

External Websites Dedicated to the State Seal of Civic Engagement

The websites listed below have been developed by California organizations that are supporting LEAs to implement the SSCE. These sites are being updated as new resources become available.

California History-Social Science Project Sites

Each of the below CHSSP sites has a variety of resources to support professional learning in civics.

Institutes

Coaching, Seminars, Training Videos, Toolkits

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

# data[].attributes.body
Info and materials to help y

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

Educators, administrators, students, families, community members, and others are encouraged to use these resources to support civic engagement inside and outside the classroom, especially as students work to earn the California State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE). Please use the contact information at the bottom of the page if you have questions, or to learn more about the SSCE.

Distance Learning During COVID-19

Students can still be civically engaged, even in this new and rapidly changing educational landscape. Many of the resources listed on the tabs below can be adapted for distance learning, and some programs are already providing resources designed for a virtual environment. Additionally, the links below contain several resources specifically designed to teach civics through distance learning during the COVID-19 response.

The CHSSP provides History-Social Science (HSS) resources to support teachers engaged in distance learning and parents helping children learn at home, including a parent's guide to History-Social Science (HSS).

The Office of the Governor California Volunteers Program has special opportunities to get involved with the COVID-19 volunteer response.

This page contains comprehensive information about California's COVID-19 response, including ways to become involved in the effort.
CDE Resources to Support Distance Learning
This page aggregates guidance documents, webinars, and content-specific links to support distance learning in a variety of subjects.

This article, published in the Journal of Public Affairs in April 2019, details one professor's development and implementation of a civics project in an online American government course.

These free resources from iCivics include games and toolkits designed for educators and families to use for distance learning.

Street Law provides interactive curriculum and training for teaching young people about the law and government. This list has been updated to include at-home civics learning resources and strategies.

This growing list highlights organizations that are producing and elevating resources to support civic engagement through distance learning.

Foundational Documents for Civic Engagement

In 2013, Former State Superintendent of Public Instruction (SSPI), Tom Torlakson, introduced the Civics Education Initiative. This included a series of programs and resources geared toward revitalizing statewide civic education:

The following documents provide research, case studies, and policy recommendations for improving student civic engagement.

Research and Reports

Published in 2003 as part of a partnership between the Carnegie Corporation, the Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement, this document represented an effort to gather scholars and practitioners to determine the most effective, feasible civic education programs possible. The report serves as the foundation for several other documents in this collection, and marks the beginning of the current national push to improve civic education.

The result of a three-year state-led collaborative effort, the C3 Framework for Social Studies State Standards was developed for states to upgrade their social studies standards, and for local school districts, schools, teachers, and curriculum writers to strengthen their social studies programs. Its objectives are to: (a) enhance the rigor of the social studies disciplines; (b) build critical thinking, problem solving, and participatory skills to become engaged citizens; and (c) align academic programs to the Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts and Literacy in HSS.

This 2020 report was published in the Journal of Social Studies Research to discuss the role of emotion in citizenship and presents an argument for critical affective literacy in civic education classrooms. The report also offers instructional strategies for handling the political emotions of students.

This article outlines the importance of schools promoting equity, social justice, and civic engagement in schools. It also provides an explanation of how the State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE), the Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) process, Multi-Tiered System of Supports and related efforts to incorporate civic engagement standards into the California School Dashboard can help equitable civic empowerment for all students.

This report, published by Educational Testing Service in the leadup to the 2012 presidential election, analyzes how gaps in educational attainment and income indicate fault lines in our democracy by predicting voting and civic engagement rates. The report includes specific data on young adults' civic engagement compared to their income and education, and makes recommendations for schools, colleges, and adult education.

This publication provides several key strategies for advancing civic education system wide based on experiences promoting civic learning and engagement in Chicago, Illinois and Riverside, California.

This 2011 report builds and expands on the findings of the 2003 Civic Mission of Schools. The report updates research on the benefits of civic learning, outlines the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning, and makes policy recommendations for improving civic outcomes.

This article focuses on the idea of "lived civics" as a frame for more effective civic learning by explicitly addressing the interests and experiences of young people through the context of best practices in teaching civics. The article offers ideas on reframing civics content and instruction, and includes a review of contemporary civics literature, principles of lived civics, and reflections for educators to consider.

This study of civic learning in California school districts draws upon LCAPs and district mission statements to assess the degree to which districts are focused on and devoting resources to civic priorities. It provides several key findings based upon the data, and makes recommendations for supporting the SSCE and moving forward with a systemic commitment to, and investment in, civic learning.

This report, published in 2017, adds several complementary streams of research and practice to the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning. Ideas for enhancing civic education with news media literacy education, action civics, social and emotional learning, and school climate reform are included, as well as two case studies of states improving their civic learning plans.
Revitalizing K-12 Civic Learning In California: A Blueprint For Action (PDF)
This report, by the California Task Force on K-12 Civic Learning, was published in August 2014 as a partnership between former SSPI Tom Torlakson and Supreme Court Chief Justice Tani G. Cantil-Sakauye. The report offers system-wide recommendations to improve civic learning, including revising the HSS Content Standards and Framework and improving professional learning opportunities.

Published in 2014 by the Education Commission of States, this guidebook is a resource for teachers, administrators, policymakers, and others who want to put the Six Proven Practices in place but are not sure where to begin. The document highlights research and provides practical suggestions for implementing each practice.

Council is a sharing method, focused on empathy and active listening. It can be effective especially when working on topics such as personal development and strengthening of group dynamics.

This 2013 conference, funded by the Bechtel Foundation, brought together several experts on youth civic development and citizenship education in order to promote civic development and participation for youth from all backgrounds. The report outlines recommendations regarding improving citizenship education nationwide.

General, Comprehensive Resources

These organizations offer a variety of programs to support civic learning at all levels and for a variety of audiences.

Webinars, podcasts, and curriculum to support civic engagement from a global perspective.

Series of civics programs, community partnership opportunities, lesson resources, and other publications.

Extensive array of lesson resources including Bill of Rights in Action, Civics On Call, civic scenarios and simulations, and more.

Wide variety of resources for educators , school leaders, students and families that address racism, anti-semitism, and prejudice throughout history. Key resources include curriculum, strategies, webinars, Teaching with Current Events , the Choosing to Participate Toolkit , and Fostering Civil Discourse: How do We Talk about Issues that Matter .

Classroom activities and lessons, voter registration information, teacher training and resources, school and district resources, and research on civic education.

Program geared towards helping civics educators implement comprehensive civics education programs. Includes lesson plans, an E-Congress, mock elections, research, current events discussion support, and teacher training.

Searchable Resource Databases

These sites include searchable resource databases that provide information for educators, administrators, families, and students.

Database of resources focused on career and technical education lessons. Includes primary sources, lesson plans, strategies, and resources to support Project Based Learning.

Articles, reports, lesson plans and other resources that support civic engagement.

Searchable database of resources dedicated to civic engagement. Search by content or by standard, or play games, check out curriculum units, or plan a civics scope and sequence. They also offer resources to support distance learning.

The National Endowment for the Humanities provides this resource that contains lesson plans, curricula, and full teacher's guides for grades K-12. Search by topic and grade level. Resources are HSS-focused, but also include literature, language arts, arts and culture.

Database focused on lessons for civics, government, and law-related education for K-12 students. Includes simulations, discussions, mock trials, case studies, and other research-based materials. Filter lessons by grade level, lesson topic, strategy, or standard.

Resources Targeted by Grade Level or Function

Below are recommended resources organized by grade level (kindergarten through grade eight [K-8], and grades nine through twelve [9-12]). Please keep in mind that many resources can span multiple grade levels based on individual student needs, and educators should review and adapt all resources before implementing them.

Resources for Kindergarten through Grade Eight

Even the youngest students can become civically engaged! The following resources can help K-8 students get excited about civics.

Apprentice-level learning adventures geared at teaching kids ages four through eight about the U.S. government.

One-day workshops for students and advisors to focus on teamwork and building ideas for effective student governance.

Elementary schools are encouraged to apply for Civic Learning Awards and participate in the Judges in the Classroom Program. Lesson resources are also available for elementary students on the Digital Chalkboard.

A wide range of short articles on various topics in world history, American history, and government. Also includes a series of biographies on dozens of influential individuals.

Field trips designed for kindergarten through grade two (K-2) students focusing on fundamental principles of democracy.

Students can choose from a variety of games ranging in length from 0-30+ minutes on topics such as voting, arguing Supreme Court cases, and international diplomacy.

Interdisciplinary lesson resources that use literacy and mock trials to teach key principles of civics. Some lessons are created for students in grades four and five.

Series of lessons that teach about the electoral process and encourage citizenship in the classroom, school, home and community.
Rendell Center for Civics and Civic Engagement Literature-Based Mock Trials
Lesson plans focused on teaching the skills of civil discourse when discussing social justice issues, designed for a K-2 audience.

Resources for Grades Nine through Twelve

These resources are appropriate for students primarily in high school, although many can be adapted for grades 6-8.

Information about SOS initiatives to educate and engage young Californian's in the democratic process, including programs to pre-register to vote at age 16, High School Voter Education Weeks, California Student Mock Elections, and guidance for school administrators and teachers.

An online resource for studying democracy, designed for use by teachers, professors, and college and secondary students. Includes information on essential principles of democracy, a study guide for democracy, and comparative information on the study of freedom internationally.

Curriculum for high school teachers, including an action project, research and blogging, democracy in action, and infographics.

The Institute for Local Government's PYLG units focus on roles, responsibilities, and processes of local government.

Funded by the S.D. Bechtel, Jr. Foundation, the Action Civics initiative worked to civic awareness and engagement in 14 middle and high schools in the Sacramento region. This site includes resources to support professional development provided through the program and other tools to support civic learning. The initiative also developed resources for middle school students.

High school law course materials, Supreme Court of the United States in the Classroom program, and rule of law education curriculum.

Collection of documents that focus on specific issues in American civic history. Each collection has an introduction that provides necessary context and three sets of study questions. Each of the documents is annotated with footnotes that provide biographical information on document authors and identify obscure words, events, or individuals.

Supporting the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning

This page contains some of the strongest resources for incorporating each of the Six Proven Practices of Effective Civic Learning.

The California Courts recognize and celebrate public schools' efforts to engage students in civic learning through their annual Civic Learning Awards . Co-sponsored by Chief Justice Cantil-Sakauye. Seventy-five schools earned awards in 2020. Schools seeking to earn an award may also refer to this list of resources as they set up or enhance their civic learning programs.

Instruction in Government, History, Law, Democracy

Schools can offer courses on civics, government, history, and law, in an effort to encourage better-informed citizens. The below resources include vetted, easy-to-implement curricula to support these courses.

Current Events and Controversial Issues

Effective classroom discussions of current events and controversial issues can increase student interest in government. The below resources provide a variety of options for facilitating these types of engaging discussions.

Service-Learning

Service-learning opportunities provide ways for students and the community to come together to develop habits of community engagement. These resources can help educators facilitate projects, while also tying them back to the classroom.

Extracurricular Activities

Student-led volunteer projects that occur outside of the classroom can also teach skills in collaboration and civic participation. The below organizations provide resources and ongoing support for students, teachers, administrators, and families.

Student Participation in School Governance

Giving students a voice can also help increase understanding and appreciation of the intricacies of the democratic process as it also teaches key behaviors of citizenship. These organizations provide guidance and support for schools implementing a structure for student voice in school governance.

Simulations

Simulations allow students to simulate adult civic roles and offer a unique, deep civic learning experience. Some of these programs use role-playing games to simulate government, helping students participate in processes such as national elections.

Resources for Students

The below resources are especially helpful for students looking to become more civically engaged.

Student Institutes and Conferences

While not officially part of the Six Proven Practices, participation in institutes and conferences offer additional chances for students to engage first-hand in a way that supports overall civic engagement.

Programs to Support Student Engagement

The below organizations can help support students who seek to enhance civic learning and engagement on school campuses. In light of COVID-19, many of these organizations are providing resources to support civic engagement virtually.

Miscellaneous Tips, Skills, and Ideas

These resources can help students as they carry out their civic engagement projects. Resources include advice on writing professional emails, ideas for community service projects, and helpful checklists to guide projects from start to finish.

This list will grow over time. Have you come across any other helpful guides or tools directed specifically towards helping students carry out the day-to-day work of civic engagement projects? Please share them with the CDE at ssce@cde.ca.gov.

Reminders, guidelines, and samples to help students write a variety of professional emails.

Professional Learning Opportunities for Educators

The 2016 HSS Framework incorporates critical shifts for educators. These shifts include a focus on inquiry-based instruction through innovative teaching and learning practices. The HSS Framework guides educators as they design, implement, and maintain a coherent course of study to teach content; develop inquiry-based critical thinking skills; improve reading comprehension and expository writing ability; and promote an engaged and knowledgeable citizenry in history and the related social sciences.

The Budget Act of 2017 included an allocation of funds for high-quality professional learning and resources for HSS educators and administrators to implement the new framework. Through funding from the CDE, the Sacramento County Office of Education has developed a system of statewide and regional communities of practice to provide meaningful and targeted support in HSS for classroom teachers, paraprofessionals, and site administrators. Representing the four instructional shifts described in the HSS Framework, the Content, Literacy, Inquiry, and Citizenship (CLIC) Project develops and facilitates the many elements integral for successful implementation of the HSS Framework. As part of their work, the CLIC Project hosts a YouTube channel that contains videos to support educators and administrators as they implement the HSS Framework, including videos on fostering student advocacy and classroom approaches to civic learning .

Below is a list of additional professional learning institutes, courses, and other opportunities to support educators as they implement civic learning programs.

External Websites Dedicated to the State Seal of Civic Engagement

The websites listed below have been developed by California organizations that are supporting LEAs to implement the SSCE. These sites are being updated as new resources become available.

California History-Social Science Project Sites

Each of the below CHSSP sites has a variety of resources to support professional learning in civics.

Institutes

Coaching, Seminars, Training Videos, Toolkits

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

# data[].attributes.body
Info and materials to help

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

Educators, administrators, students, families, community members, and others are encouraged to use these resources to support civic engagement inside and outside the classroom, especially as students work to earn the California State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE). Please use the contact information at the bottom of the page if you have questions, or to learn more about the SSCE.

Distance Learning During COVID-19

Students can still be civically engaged, even in this new and rapidly changing educational landscape. Many of the resources listed on the tabs below can be adapted for distance learning, and some programs are already providing resources designed for a virtual environment. Additionally, the links below contain several resources specifically designed to teach civics through distance learning during the COVID-19 response.

The CHSSP provides History-Social Science (HSS) resources to support teachers engaged in distance learning and parents helping children learn at home, including a parent's guide to History-Social Science (HSS).

The Office of the Governor California Volunteers Program has special opportunities to get involved with the COVID-19 volunteer response.

This page contains comprehensive information about California's COVID-19 response, including ways to become involved in the effort.
CDE Resources to Support Distance Learning
This page aggregates guidance documents, webinars, and content-specific links to support distance learning in a variety of subjects.

This article, published in the Journal of Public Affairs in April 2019, details one professor's development and implementation of a civics project in an online American government course.

These free resources from iCivics include games and toolkits designed for educators and families to use for distance learning.

Street Law provides interactive curriculum and training for teaching young people about the law and government. This list has been updated to include at-home civics learning resources and strategies.

This growing list highlights organizations that are producing and elevating resources to support civic engagement through distance learning.

Foundational Documents for Civic Engagement

In 2013, Former State Superintendent of Public Instruction (SSPI), Tom Torlakson, introduced the Civics Education Initiative. This included a series of programs and resources geared toward revitalizing statewide civic education:

The following documents provide research, case studies, and policy recommendations for improving student civic engagement.

Research and Reports

Published in 2003 as part of a partnership between the Carnegie Corporation, the Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement, this document represented an effort to gather scholars and practitioners to determine the most effective, feasible civic education programs possible. The report serves as the foundation for several other documents in this collection, and marks the beginning of the current national push to improve civic education.

The result of a three-year state-led collaborative effort, the C3 Framework for Social Studies State Standards was developed for states to upgrade their social studies standards, and for local school districts, schools, teachers, and curriculum writers to strengthen their social studies programs. Its objectives are to: (a) enhance the rigor of the social studies disciplines; (b) build critical thinking, problem solving, and participatory skills to become engaged citizens; and (c) align academic programs to the Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts and Literacy in HSS.

This 2020 report was published in the Journal of Social Studies Research to discuss the role of emotion in citizenship and presents an argument for critical affective literacy in civic education classrooms. The report also offers instructional strategies for handling the political emotions of students.

This article outlines the importance of schools promoting equity, social justice, and civic engagement in schools. It also provides an explanation of how the State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE), the Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) process, Multi-Tiered System of Supports and related efforts to incorporate civic engagement standards into the California School Dashboard can help equitable civic empowerment for all students.

This report, published by Educational Testing Service in the leadup to the 2012 presidential election, analyzes how gaps in educational attainment and income indicate fault lines in our democracy by predicting voting and civic engagement rates. The report includes specific data on young adults' civic engagement compared to their income and education, and makes recommendations for schools, colleges, and adult education.

This publication provides several key strategies for advancing civic education system wide based on experiences promoting civic learning and engagement in Chicago, Illinois and Riverside, California.

This 2011 report builds and expands on the findings of the 2003 Civic Mission of Schools. The report updates research on the benefits of civic learning, outlines the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning, and makes policy recommendations for improving civic outcomes.

This article focuses on the idea of "lived civics" as a frame for more effective civic learning by explicitly addressing the interests and experiences of young people through the context of best practices in teaching civics. The article offers ideas on reframing civics content and instruction, and includes a review of contemporary civics literature, principles of lived civics, and reflections for educators to consider.

This study of civic learning in California school districts draws upon LCAPs and district mission statements to assess the degree to which districts are focused on and devoting resources to civic priorities. It provides several key findings based upon the data, and makes recommendations for supporting the SSCE and moving forward with a systemic commitment to, and investment in, civic learning.

This report, published in 2017, adds several complementary streams of research and practice to the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning. Ideas for enhancing civic education with news media literacy education, action civics, social and emotional learning, and school climate reform are included, as well as two case studies of states improving their civic learning plans.
Revitalizing K-12 Civic Learning In California: A Blueprint For Action (PDF)
This report, by the California Task Force on K-12 Civic Learning, was published in August 2014 as a partnership between former SSPI Tom Torlakson and Supreme Court Chief Justice Tani G. Cantil-Sakauye. The report offers system-wide recommendations to improve civic learning, including revising the HSS Content Standards and Framework and improving professional learning opportunities.

Published in 2014 by the Education Commission of States, this guidebook is a resource for teachers, administrators, policymakers, and others who want to put the Six Proven Practices in place but are not sure where to begin. The document highlights research and provides practical suggestions for implementing each practice.

Council is a sharing method, focused on empathy and active listening. It can be effective especially when working on topics such as personal development and strengthening of group dynamics.

This 2013 conference, funded by the Bechtel Foundation, brought together several experts on youth civic development and citizenship education in order to promote civic development and participation for youth from all backgrounds. The report outlines recommendations regarding improving citizenship education nationwide.

General, Comprehensive Resources

These organizations offer a variety of programs to support civic learning at all levels and for a variety of audiences.

Webinars, podcasts, and curriculum to support civic engagement from a global perspective.

Series of civics programs, community partnership opportunities, lesson resources, and other publications.

Extensive array of lesson resources including Bill of Rights in Action, Civics On Call, civic scenarios and simulations, and more.

Wide variety of resources for educators , school leaders, students and families that address racism, anti-semitism, and prejudice throughout history. Key resources include curriculum, strategies, webinars, Teaching with Current Events , the Choosing to Participate Toolkit , and Fostering Civil Discourse: How do We Talk about Issues that Matter .

Classroom activities and lessons, voter registration information, teacher training and resources, school and district resources, and research on civic education.

Program geared towards helping civics educators implement comprehensive civics education programs. Includes lesson plans, an E-Congress, mock elections, research, current events discussion support, and teacher training.

Searchable Resource Databases

These sites include searchable resource databases that provide information for educators, administrators, families, and students.

Database of resources focused on career and technical education lessons. Includes primary sources, lesson plans, strategies, and resources to support Project Based Learning.

Articles, reports, lesson plans and other resources that support civic engagement.

Searchable database of resources dedicated to civic engagement. Search by content or by standard, or play games, check out curriculum units, or plan a civics scope and sequence. They also offer resources to support distance learning.

The National Endowment for the Humanities provides this resource that contains lesson plans, curricula, and full teacher's guides for grades K-12. Search by topic and grade level. Resources are HSS-focused, but also include literature, language arts, arts and culture.

Database focused on lessons for civics, government, and law-related education for K-12 students. Includes simulations, discussions, mock trials, case studies, and other research-based materials. Filter lessons by grade level, lesson topic, strategy, or standard.

Resources Targeted by Grade Level or Function

Below are recommended resources organized by grade level (kindergarten through grade eight [K-8], and grades nine through twelve [9-12]). Please keep in mind that many resources can span multiple grade levels based on individual student needs, and educators should review and adapt all resources before implementing them.

Resources for Kindergarten through Grade Eight

Even the youngest students can become civically engaged! The following resources can help K-8 students get excited about civics.

Apprentice-level learning adventures geared at teaching kids ages four through eight about the U.S. government.

One-day workshops for students and advisors to focus on teamwork and building ideas for effective student governance.

Elementary schools are encouraged to apply for Civic Learning Awards and participate in the Judges in the Classroom Program. Lesson resources are also available for elementary students on the Digital Chalkboard.

A wide range of short articles on various topics in world history, American history, and government. Also includes a series of biographies on dozens of influential individuals.

Field trips designed for kindergarten through grade two (K-2) students focusing on fundamental principles of democracy.

Students can choose from a variety of games ranging in length from 0-30+ minutes on topics such as voting, arguing Supreme Court cases, and international diplomacy.

Interdisciplinary lesson resources that use literacy and mock trials to teach key principles of civics. Some lessons are created for students in grades four and five.

Series of lessons that teach about the electoral process and encourage citizenship in the classroom, school, home and community.
Rendell Center for Civics and Civic Engagement Literature-Based Mock Trials
Lesson plans focused on teaching the skills of civil discourse when discussing social justice issues, designed for a K-2 audience.

Resources for Grades Nine through Twelve

These resources are appropriate for students primarily in high school, although many can be adapted for grades 6-8.

Information about SOS initiatives to educate and engage young Californian's in the democratic process, including programs to pre-register to vote at age 16, High School Voter Education Weeks, California Student Mock Elections, and guidance for school administrators and teachers.

An online resource for studying democracy, designed for use by teachers, professors, and college and secondary students. Includes information on essential principles of democracy, a study guide for democracy, and comparative information on the study of freedom internationally.

Curriculum for high school teachers, including an action project, research and blogging, democracy in action, and infographics.

The Institute for Local Government's PYLG units focus on roles, responsibilities, and processes of local government.

Funded by the S.D. Bechtel, Jr. Foundation, the Action Civics initiative worked to civic awareness and engagement in 14 middle and high schools in the Sacramento region. This site includes resources to support professional development provided through the program and other tools to support civic learning. The initiative also developed resources for middle school students.

High school law course materials, Supreme Court of the United States in the Classroom program, and rule of law education curriculum.

Collection of documents that focus on specific issues in American civic history. Each collection has an introduction that provides necessary context and three sets of study questions. Each of the documents is annotated with footnotes that provide biographical information on document authors and identify obscure words, events, or individuals.

Supporting the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning

This page contains some of the strongest resources for incorporating each of the Six Proven Practices of Effective Civic Learning.

The California Courts recognize and celebrate public schools' efforts to engage students in civic learning through their annual Civic Learning Awards . Co-sponsored by Chief Justice Cantil-Sakauye. Seventy-five schools earned awards in 2020. Schools seeking to earn an award may also refer to this list of resources as they set up or enhance their civic learning programs.

Instruction in Government, History, Law, Democracy

Schools can offer courses on civics, government, history, and law, in an effort to encourage better-informed citizens. The below resources include vetted, easy-to-implement curricula to support these courses.

Current Events and Controversial Issues

Effective classroom discussions of current events and controversial issues can increase student interest in government. The below resources provide a variety of options for facilitating these types of engaging discussions.

Service-Learning

Service-learning opportunities provide ways for students and the community to come together to develop habits of community engagement. These resources can help educators facilitate projects, while also tying them back to the classroom.

Extracurricular Activities

Student-led volunteer projects that occur outside of the classroom can also teach skills in collaboration and civic participation. The below organizations provide resources and ongoing support for students, teachers, administrators, and families.

Student Participation in School Governance

Giving students a voice can also help increase understanding and appreciation of the intricacies of the democratic process as it also teaches key behaviors of citizenship. These organizations provide guidance and support for schools implementing a structure for student voice in school governance.

Simulations

Simulations allow students to simulate adult civic roles and offer a unique, deep civic learning experience. Some of these programs use role-playing games to simulate government, helping students participate in processes such as national elections.

Resources for Students

The below resources are especially helpful for students looking to become more civically engaged.

Student Institutes and Conferences

While not officially part of the Six Proven Practices, participation in institutes and conferences offer additional chances for students to engage first-hand in a way that supports overall civic engagement.

Programs to Support Student Engagement

The below organizations can help support students who seek to enhance civic learning and engagement on school campuses. In light of COVID-19, many of these organizations are providing resources to support civic engagement virtually.

Miscellaneous Tips, Skills, and Ideas

These resources can help students as they carry out their civic engagement projects. Resources include advice on writing professional emails, ideas for community service projects, and helpful checklists to guide projects from start to finish.

This list will grow over time. Have you come across any other helpful guides or tools directed specifically towards helping students carry out the day-to-day work of civic engagement projects? Please share them with the CDE at ssce@cde.ca.gov.

Reminders, guidelines, and samples to help students write a variety of professional emails.

Professional Learning Opportunities for Educators

The 2016 HSS Framework incorporates critical shifts for educators. These shifts include a focus on inquiry-based instruction through innovative teaching and learning practices. The HSS Framework guides educators as they design, implement, and maintain a coherent course of study to teach content; develop inquiry-based critical thinking skills; improve reading comprehension and expository writing ability; and promote an engaged and knowledgeable citizenry in history and the related social sciences.

The Budget Act of 2017 included an allocation of funds for high-quality professional learning and resources for HSS educators and administrators to implement the new framework. Through funding from the CDE, the Sacramento County Office of Education has developed a system of statewide and regional communities of practice to provide meaningful and targeted support in HSS for classroom teachers, paraprofessionals, and site administrators. Representing the four instructional shifts described in the HSS Framework, the Content, Literacy, Inquiry, and Citizenship (CLIC) Project develops and facilitates the many elements integral for successful implementation of the HSS Framework. As part of their work, the CLIC Project hosts a YouTube channel that contains videos to support educators and administrators as they implement the HSS Framework, including videos on fostering student advocacy and classroom approaches to civic learning .

Below is a list of additional professional learning institutes, courses, and other opportunities to support educators as they implement civic learning programs.

External Websites Dedicated to the State Seal of Civic Engagement

The websites listed below have been developed by California organizations that are supporting LEAs to implement the SSCE. These sites are being updated as new resources become available.

California History-Social Science Project Sites

Each of the below CHSSP sites has a variety of resources to support professional learning in civics.

Institutes

Coaching, Seminars, Training Videos, Toolkits

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

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Info and materials t

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

Educators, administrators, students, families, community members, and others are encouraged to use these resources to support civic engagement inside and outside the classroom, especially as students work to earn the California State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE). Please use the contact information at the bottom of the page if you have questions, or to learn more about the SSCE.

Distance Learning During COVID-19

Students can still be civically engaged, even in this new and rapidly changing educational landscape. Many of the resources listed on the tabs below can be adapted for distance learning, and some programs are already providing resources designed for a virtual environment. Additionally, the links below contain several resources specifically designed to teach civics through distance learning during the COVID-19 response.

The CHSSP provides History-Social Science (HSS) resources to support teachers engaged in distance learning and parents helping children learn at home, including a parent's guide to History-Social Science (HSS).

The Office of the Governor California Volunteers Program has special opportunities to get involved with the COVID-19 volunteer response.

This page contains comprehensive information about California's COVID-19 response, including ways to become involved in the effort.
CDE Resources to Support Distance Learning
This page aggregates guidance documents, webinars, and content-specific links to support distance learning in a variety of subjects.

This article, published in the Journal of Public Affairs in April 2019, details one professor's development and implementation of a civics project in an online American government course.

These free resources from iCivics include games and toolkits designed for educators and families to use for distance learning.

Street Law provides interactive curriculum and training for teaching young people about the law and government. This list has been updated to include at-home civics learning resources and strategies.

This growing list highlights organizations that are producing and elevating resources to support civic engagement through distance learning.

Foundational Documents for Civic Engagement

In 2013, Former State Superintendent of Public Instruction (SSPI), Tom Torlakson, introduced the Civics Education Initiative. This included a series of programs and resources geared toward revitalizing statewide civic education:

The following documents provide research, case studies, and policy recommendations for improving student civic engagement.

Research and Reports

Published in 2003 as part of a partnership between the Carnegie Corporation, the Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement, this document represented an effort to gather scholars and practitioners to determine the most effective, feasible civic education programs possible. The report serves as the foundation for several other documents in this collection, and marks the beginning of the current national push to improve civic education.

The result of a three-year state-led collaborative effort, the C3 Framework for Social Studies State Standards was developed for states to upgrade their social studies standards, and for local school districts, schools, teachers, and curriculum writers to strengthen their social studies programs. Its objectives are to: (a) enhance the rigor of the social studies disciplines; (b) build critical thinking, problem solving, and participatory skills to become engaged citizens; and (c) align academic programs to the Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts and Literacy in HSS.

This 2020 report was published in the Journal of Social Studies Research to discuss the role of emotion in citizenship and presents an argument for critical affective literacy in civic education classrooms. The report also offers instructional strategies for handling the political emotions of students.

This article outlines the importance of schools promoting equity, social justice, and civic engagement in schools. It also provides an explanation of how the State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE), the Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) process, Multi-Tiered System of Supports and related efforts to incorporate civic engagement standards into the California School Dashboard can help equitable civic empowerment for all students.

This report, published by Educational Testing Service in the leadup to the 2012 presidential election, analyzes how gaps in educational attainment and income indicate fault lines in our democracy by predicting voting and civic engagement rates. The report includes specific data on young adults' civic engagement compared to their income and education, and makes recommendations for schools, colleges, and adult education.

This publication provides several key strategies for advancing civic education system wide based on experiences promoting civic learning and engagement in Chicago, Illinois and Riverside, California.

This 2011 report builds and expands on the findings of the 2003 Civic Mission of Schools. The report updates research on the benefits of civic learning, outlines the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning, and makes policy recommendations for improving civic outcomes.

This article focuses on the idea of "lived civics" as a frame for more effective civic learning by explicitly addressing the interests and experiences of young people through the context of best practices in teaching civics. The article offers ideas on reframing civics content and instruction, and includes a review of contemporary civics literature, principles of lived civics, and reflections for educators to consider.

This study of civic learning in California school districts draws upon LCAPs and district mission statements to assess the degree to which districts are focused on and devoting resources to civic priorities. It provides several key findings based upon the data, and makes recommendations for supporting the SSCE and moving forward with a systemic commitment to, and investment in, civic learning.

This report, published in 2017, adds several complementary streams of research and practice to the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning. Ideas for enhancing civic education with news media literacy education, action civics, social and emotional learning, and school climate reform are included, as well as two case studies of states improving their civic learning plans.
Revitalizing K-12 Civic Learning In California: A Blueprint For Action (PDF)
This report, by the California Task Force on K-12 Civic Learning, was published in August 2014 as a partnership between former SSPI Tom Torlakson and Supreme Court Chief Justice Tani G. Cantil-Sakauye. The report offers system-wide recommendations to improve civic learning, including revising the HSS Content Standards and Framework and improving professional learning opportunities.

Published in 2014 by the Education Commission of States, this guidebook is a resource for teachers, administrators, policymakers, and others who want to put the Six Proven Practices in place but are not sure where to begin. The document highlights research and provides practical suggestions for implementing each practice.

Council is a sharing method, focused on empathy and active listening. It can be effective especially when working on topics such as personal development and strengthening of group dynamics.

This 2013 conference, funded by the Bechtel Foundation, brought together several experts on youth civic development and citizenship education in order to promote civic development and participation for youth from all backgrounds. The report outlines recommendations regarding improving citizenship education nationwide.

General, Comprehensive Resources

These organizations offer a variety of programs to support civic learning at all levels and for a variety of audiences.

Webinars, podcasts, and curriculum to support civic engagement from a global perspective.

Series of civics programs, community partnership opportunities, lesson resources, and other publications.

Extensive array of lesson resources including Bill of Rights in Action, Civics On Call, civic scenarios and simulations, and more.

Wide variety of resources for educators , school leaders, students and families that address racism, anti-semitism, and prejudice throughout history. Key resources include curriculum, strategies, webinars, Teaching with Current Events , the Choosing to Participate Toolkit , and Fostering Civil Discourse: How do We Talk about Issues that Matter .

Classroom activities and lessons, voter registration information, teacher training and resources, school and district resources, and research on civic education.

Program geared towards helping civics educators implement comprehensive civics education programs. Includes lesson plans, an E-Congress, mock elections, research, current events discussion support, and teacher training.

Searchable Resource Databases

These sites include searchable resource databases that provide information for educators, administrators, families, and students.

Database of resources focused on career and technical education lessons. Includes primary sources, lesson plans, strategies, and resources to support Project Based Learning.

Articles, reports, lesson plans and other resources that support civic engagement.

Searchable database of resources dedicated to civic engagement. Search by content or by standard, or play games, check out curriculum units, or plan a civics scope and sequence. They also offer resources to support distance learning.

The National Endowment for the Humanities provides this resource that contains lesson plans, curricula, and full teacher's guides for grades K-12. Search by topic and grade level. Resources are HSS-focused, but also include literature, language arts, arts and culture.

Database focused on lessons for civics, government, and law-related education for K-12 students. Includes simulations, discussions, mock trials, case studies, and other research-based materials. Filter lessons by grade level, lesson topic, strategy, or standard.

Resources Targeted by Grade Level or Function

Below are recommended resources organized by grade level (kindergarten through grade eight [K-8], and grades nine through twelve [9-12]). Please keep in mind that many resources can span multiple grade levels based on individual student needs, and educators should review and adapt all resources before implementing them.

Resources for Kindergarten through Grade Eight

Even the youngest students can become civically engaged! The following resources can help K-8 students get excited about civics.

Apprentice-level learning adventures geared at teaching kids ages four through eight about the U.S. government.

One-day workshops for students and advisors to focus on teamwork and building ideas for effective student governance.

Elementary schools are encouraged to apply for Civic Learning Awards and participate in the Judges in the Classroom Program. Lesson resources are also available for elementary students on the Digital Chalkboard.

A wide range of short articles on various topics in world history, American history, and government. Also includes a series of biographies on dozens of influential individuals.

Field trips designed for kindergarten through grade two (K-2) students focusing on fundamental principles of democracy.

Students can choose from a variety of games ranging in length from 0-30+ minutes on topics such as voting, arguing Supreme Court cases, and international diplomacy.

Interdisciplinary lesson resources that use literacy and mock trials to teach key principles of civics. Some lessons are created for students in grades four and five.

Series of lessons that teach about the electoral process and encourage citizenship in the classroom, school, home and community.
Rendell Center for Civics and Civic Engagement Literature-Based Mock Trials
Lesson plans focused on teaching the skills of civil discourse when discussing social justice issues, designed for a K-2 audience.

Resources for Grades Nine through Twelve

These resources are appropriate for students primarily in high school, although many can be adapted for grades 6-8.

Information about SOS initiatives to educate and engage young Californian's in the democratic process, including programs to pre-register to vote at age 16, High School Voter Education Weeks, California Student Mock Elections, and guidance for school administrators and teachers.

An online resource for studying democracy, designed for use by teachers, professors, and college and secondary students. Includes information on essential principles of democracy, a study guide for democracy, and comparative information on the study of freedom internationally.

Curriculum for high school teachers, including an action project, research and blogging, democracy in action, and infographics.

The Institute for Local Government's PYLG units focus on roles, responsibilities, and processes of local government.

Funded by the S.D. Bechtel, Jr. Foundation, the Action Civics initiative worked to civic awareness and engagement in 14 middle and high schools in the Sacramento region. This site includes resources to support professional development provided through the program and other tools to support civic learning. The initiative also developed resources for middle school students.

High school law course materials, Supreme Court of the United States in the Classroom program, and rule of law education curriculum.

Collection of documents that focus on specific issues in American civic history. Each collection has an introduction that provides necessary context and three sets of study questions. Each of the documents is annotated with footnotes that provide biographical information on document authors and identify obscure words, events, or individuals.

Supporting the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning

This page contains some of the strongest resources for incorporating each of the Six Proven Practices of Effective Civic Learning.

The California Courts recognize and celebrate public schools' efforts to engage students in civic learning through their annual Civic Learning Awards . Co-sponsored by Chief Justice Cantil-Sakauye. Seventy-five schools earned awards in 2020. Schools seeking to earn an award may also refer to this list of resources as they set up or enhance their civic learning programs.

Instruction in Government, History, Law, Democracy

Schools can offer courses on civics, government, history, and law, in an effort to encourage better-informed citizens. The below resources include vetted, easy-to-implement curricula to support these courses.

Current Events and Controversial Issues

Effective classroom discussions of current events and controversial issues can increase student interest in government. The below resources provide a variety of options for facilitating these types of engaging discussions.

Service-Learning

Service-learning opportunities provide ways for students and the community to come together to develop habits of community engagement. These resources can help educators facilitate projects, while also tying them back to the classroom.

Extracurricular Activities

Student-led volunteer projects that occur outside of the classroom can also teach skills in collaboration and civic participation. The below organizations provide resources and ongoing support for students, teachers, administrators, and families.

Student Participation in School Governance

Giving students a voice can also help increase understanding and appreciation of the intricacies of the democratic process as it also teaches key behaviors of citizenship. These organizations provide guidance and support for schools implementing a structure for student voice in school governance.

Simulations

Simulations allow students to simulate adult civic roles and offer a unique, deep civic learning experience. Some of these programs use role-playing games to simulate government, helping students participate in processes such as national elections.

Resources for Students

The below resources are especially helpful for students looking to become more civically engaged.

Student Institutes and Conferences

While not officially part of the Six Proven Practices, participation in institutes and conferences offer additional chances for students to engage first-hand in a way that supports overall civic engagement.

Programs to Support Student Engagement

The below organizations can help support students who seek to enhance civic learning and engagement on school campuses. In light of COVID-19, many of these organizations are providing resources to support civic engagement virtually.

Miscellaneous Tips, Skills, and Ideas

These resources can help students as they carry out their civic engagement projects. Resources include advice on writing professional emails, ideas for community service projects, and helpful checklists to guide projects from start to finish.

This list will grow over time. Have you come across any other helpful guides or tools directed specifically towards helping students carry out the day-to-day work of civic engagement projects? Please share them with the CDE at ssce@cde.ca.gov.

Reminders, guidelines, and samples to help students write a variety of professional emails.

Professional Learning Opportunities for Educators

The 2016 HSS Framework incorporates critical shifts for educators. These shifts include a focus on inquiry-based instruction through innovative teaching and learning practices. The HSS Framework guides educators as they design, implement, and maintain a coherent course of study to teach content; develop inquiry-based critical thinking skills; improve reading comprehension and expository writing ability; and promote an engaged and knowledgeable citizenry in history and the related social sciences.

The Budget Act of 2017 included an allocation of funds for high-quality professional learning and resources for HSS educators and administrators to implement the new framework. Through funding from the CDE, the Sacramento County Office of Education has developed a system of statewide and regional communities of practice to provide meaningful and targeted support in HSS for classroom teachers, paraprofessionals, and site administrators. Representing the four instructional shifts described in the HSS Framework, the Content, Literacy, Inquiry, and Citizenship (CLIC) Project develops and facilitates the many elements integral for successful implementation of the HSS Framework. As part of their work, the CLIC Project hosts a YouTube channel that contains videos to support educators and administrators as they implement the HSS Framework, including videos on fostering student advocacy and classroom approaches to civic learning .

Below is a list of additional professional learning institutes, courses, and other opportunities to support educators as they implement civic learning programs.

External Websites Dedicated to the State Seal of Civic Engagement

The websites listed below have been developed by California organizations that are supporting LEAs to implement the SSCE. These sites are being updated as new resources become available.

California History-Social Science Project Sites

Each of the below CHSSP sites has a variety of resources to support professional learning in civics.

Institutes

Coaching, Seminars, Training Videos, Toolkits

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

# data[].attributes.body
Info and material

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

Educators, administrators, students, families, community members, and others are encouraged to use these resources to support civic engagement inside and outside the classroom, especially as students work to earn the California State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE). Please use the contact information at the bottom of the page if you have questions, or to learn more about the SSCE.

Distance Learning During COVID-19

Students can still be civically engaged, even in this new and rapidly changing educational landscape. Many of the resources listed on the tabs below can be adapted for distance learning, and some programs are already providing resources designed for a virtual environment. Additionally, the links below contain several resources specifically designed to teach civics through distance learning during the COVID-19 response.

The CHSSP provides History-Social Science (HSS) resources to support teachers engaged in distance learning and parents helping children learn at home, including a parent's guide to History-Social Science (HSS).

The Office of the Governor California Volunteers Program has special opportunities to get involved with the COVID-19 volunteer response.

This page contains comprehensive information about California's COVID-19 response, including ways to become involved in the effort.
CDE Resources to Support Distance Learning
This page aggregates guidance documents, webinars, and content-specific links to support distance learning in a variety of subjects.

This article, published in the Journal of Public Affairs in April 2019, details one professor's development and implementation of a civics project in an online American government course.

These free resources from iCivics include games and toolkits designed for educators and families to use for distance learning.

Street Law provides interactive curriculum and training for teaching young people about the law and government. This list has been updated to include at-home civics learning resources and strategies.

This growing list highlights organizations that are producing and elevating resources to support civic engagement through distance learning.

Foundational Documents for Civic Engagement

In 2013, Former State Superintendent of Public Instruction (SSPI), Tom Torlakson, introduced the Civics Education Initiative. This included a series of programs and resources geared toward revitalizing statewide civic education:

The following documents provide research, case studies, and policy recommendations for improving student civic engagement.

Research and Reports

Published in 2003 as part of a partnership between the Carnegie Corporation, the Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement, this document represented an effort to gather scholars and practitioners to determine the most effective, feasible civic education programs possible. The report serves as the foundation for several other documents in this collection, and marks the beginning of the current national push to improve civic education.

The result of a three-year state-led collaborative effort, the C3 Framework for Social Studies State Standards was developed for states to upgrade their social studies standards, and for local school districts, schools, teachers, and curriculum writers to strengthen their social studies programs. Its objectives are to: (a) enhance the rigor of the social studies disciplines; (b) build critical thinking, problem solving, and participatory skills to become engaged citizens; and (c) align academic programs to the Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts and Literacy in HSS.

This 2020 report was published in the Journal of Social Studies Research to discuss the role of emotion in citizenship and presents an argument for critical affective literacy in civic education classrooms. The report also offers instructional strategies for handling the political emotions of students.

This article outlines the importance of schools promoting equity, social justice, and civic engagement in schools. It also provides an explanation of how the State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE), the Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) process, Multi-Tiered System of Supports and related efforts to incorporate civic engagement standards into the California School Dashboard can help equitable civic empowerment for all students.

This report, published by Educational Testing Service in the leadup to the 2012 presidential election, analyzes how gaps in educational attainment and income indicate fault lines in our democracy by predicting voting and civic engagement rates. The report includes specific data on young adults' civic engagement compared to their income and education, and makes recommendations for schools, colleges, and adult education.

This publication provides several key strategies for advancing civic education system wide based on experiences promoting civic learning and engagement in Chicago, Illinois and Riverside, California.

This 2011 report builds and expands on the findings of the 2003 Civic Mission of Schools. The report updates research on the benefits of civic learning, outlines the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning, and makes policy recommendations for improving civic outcomes.

This article focuses on the idea of "lived civics" as a frame for more effective civic learning by explicitly addressing the interests and experiences of young people through the context of best practices in teaching civics. The article offers ideas on reframing civics content and instruction, and includes a review of contemporary civics literature, principles of lived civics, and reflections for educators to consider.

This study of civic learning in California school districts draws upon LCAPs and district mission statements to assess the degree to which districts are focused on and devoting resources to civic priorities. It provides several key findings based upon the data, and makes recommendations for supporting the SSCE and moving forward with a systemic commitment to, and investment in, civic learning.

This report, published in 2017, adds several complementary streams of research and practice to the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning. Ideas for enhancing civic education with news media literacy education, action civics, social and emotional learning, and school climate reform are included, as well as two case studies of states improving their civic learning plans.
Revitalizing K-12 Civic Learning In California: A Blueprint For Action (PDF)
This report, by the California Task Force on K-12 Civic Learning, was published in August 2014 as a partnership between former SSPI Tom Torlakson and Supreme Court Chief Justice Tani G. Cantil-Sakauye. The report offers system-wide recommendations to improve civic learning, including revising the HSS Content Standards and Framework and improving professional learning opportunities.

Published in 2014 by the Education Commission of States, this guidebook is a resource for teachers, administrators, policymakers, and others who want to put the Six Proven Practices in place but are not sure where to begin. The document highlights research and provides practical suggestions for implementing each practice.

Council is a sharing method, focused on empathy and active listening. It can be effective especially when working on topics such as personal development and strengthening of group dynamics.

This 2013 conference, funded by the Bechtel Foundation, brought together several experts on youth civic development and citizenship education in order to promote civic development and participation for youth from all backgrounds. The report outlines recommendations regarding improving citizenship education nationwide.

General, Comprehensive Resources

These organizations offer a variety of programs to support civic learning at all levels and for a variety of audiences.

Webinars, podcasts, and curriculum to support civic engagement from a global perspective.

Series of civics programs, community partnership opportunities, lesson resources, and other publications.

Extensive array of lesson resources including Bill of Rights in Action, Civics On Call, civic scenarios and simulations, and more.

Wide variety of resources for educators , school leaders, students and families that address racism, anti-semitism, and prejudice throughout history. Key resources include curriculum, strategies, webinars, Teaching with Current Events , the Choosing to Participate Toolkit , and Fostering Civil Discourse: How do We Talk about Issues that Matter .

Classroom activities and lessons, voter registration information, teacher training and resources, school and district resources, and research on civic education.

Program geared towards helping civics educators implement comprehensive civics education programs. Includes lesson plans, an E-Congress, mock elections, research, current events discussion support, and teacher training.

Searchable Resource Databases

These sites include searchable resource databases that provide information for educators, administrators, families, and students.

Database of resources focused on career and technical education lessons. Includes primary sources, lesson plans, strategies, and resources to support Project Based Learning.

Articles, reports, lesson plans and other resources that support civic engagement.

Searchable database of resources dedicated to civic engagement. Search by content or by standard, or play games, check out curriculum units, or plan a civics scope and sequence. They also offer resources to support distance learning.

The National Endowment for the Humanities provides this resource that contains lesson plans, curricula, and full teacher's guides for grades K-12. Search by topic and grade level. Resources are HSS-focused, but also include literature, language arts, arts and culture.

Database focused on lessons for civics, government, and law-related education for K-12 students. Includes simulations, discussions, mock trials, case studies, and other research-based materials. Filter lessons by grade level, lesson topic, strategy, or standard.

Resources Targeted by Grade Level or Function

Below are recommended resources organized by grade level (kindergarten through grade eight [K-8], and grades nine through twelve [9-12]). Please keep in mind that many resources can span multiple grade levels based on individual student needs, and educators should review and adapt all resources before implementing them.

Resources for Kindergarten through Grade Eight

Even the youngest students can become civically engaged! The following resources can help K-8 students get excited about civics.

Apprentice-level learning adventures geared at teaching kids ages four through eight about the U.S. government.

One-day workshops for students and advisors to focus on teamwork and building ideas for effective student governance.

Elementary schools are encouraged to apply for Civic Learning Awards and participate in the Judges in the Classroom Program. Lesson resources are also available for elementary students on the Digital Chalkboard.

A wide range of short articles on various topics in world history, American history, and government. Also includes a series of biographies on dozens of influential individuals.

Field trips designed for kindergarten through grade two (K-2) students focusing on fundamental principles of democracy.

Students can choose from a variety of games ranging in length from 0-30+ minutes on topics such as voting, arguing Supreme Court cases, and international diplomacy.

Interdisciplinary lesson resources that use literacy and mock trials to teach key principles of civics. Some lessons are created for students in grades four and five.

Series of lessons that teach about the electoral process and encourage citizenship in the classroom, school, home and community.
Rendell Center for Civics and Civic Engagement Literature-Based Mock Trials
Lesson plans focused on teaching the skills of civil discourse when discussing social justice issues, designed for a K-2 audience.

Resources for Grades Nine through Twelve

These resources are appropriate for students primarily in high school, although many can be adapted for grades 6-8.

Information about SOS initiatives to educate and engage young Californian's in the democratic process, including programs to pre-register to vote at age 16, High School Voter Education Weeks, California Student Mock Elections, and guidance for school administrators and teachers.

An online resource for studying democracy, designed for use by teachers, professors, and college and secondary students. Includes information on essential principles of democracy, a study guide for democracy, and comparative information on the study of freedom internationally.

Curriculum for high school teachers, including an action project, research and blogging, democracy in action, and infographics.

The Institute for Local Government's PYLG units focus on roles, responsibilities, and processes of local government.

Funded by the S.D. Bechtel, Jr. Foundation, the Action Civics initiative worked to civic awareness and engagement in 14 middle and high schools in the Sacramento region. This site includes resources to support professional development provided through the program and other tools to support civic learning. The initiative also developed resources for middle school students.

High school law course materials, Supreme Court of the United States in the Classroom program, and rule of law education curriculum.

Collection of documents that focus on specific issues in American civic history. Each collection has an introduction that provides necessary context and three sets of study questions. Each of the documents is annotated with footnotes that provide biographical information on document authors and identify obscure words, events, or individuals.

Supporting the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning

This page contains some of the strongest resources for incorporating each of the Six Proven Practices of Effective Civic Learning.

The California Courts recognize and celebrate public schools' efforts to engage students in civic learning through their annual Civic Learning Awards . Co-sponsored by Chief Justice Cantil-Sakauye. Seventy-five schools earned awards in 2020. Schools seeking to earn an award may also refer to this list of resources as they set up or enhance their civic learning programs.

Instruction in Government, History, Law, Democracy

Schools can offer courses on civics, government, history, and law, in an effort to encourage better-informed citizens. The below resources include vetted, easy-to-implement curricula to support these courses.

Current Events and Controversial Issues

Effective classroom discussions of current events and controversial issues can increase student interest in government. The below resources provide a variety of options for facilitating these types of engaging discussions.

Service-Learning

Service-learning opportunities provide ways for students and the community to come together to develop habits of community engagement. These resources can help educators facilitate projects, while also tying them back to the classroom.

Extracurricular Activities

Student-led volunteer projects that occur outside of the classroom can also teach skills in collaboration and civic participation. The below organizations provide resources and ongoing support for students, teachers, administrators, and families.

Student Participation in School Governance

Giving students a voice can also help increase understanding and appreciation of the intricacies of the democratic process as it also teaches key behaviors of citizenship. These organizations provide guidance and support for schools implementing a structure for student voice in school governance.

Simulations

Simulations allow students to simulate adult civic roles and offer a unique, deep civic learning experience. Some of these programs use role-playing games to simulate government, helping students participate in processes such as national elections.

Resources for Students

The below resources are especially helpful for students looking to become more civically engaged.

Student Institutes and Conferences

While not officially part of the Six Proven Practices, participation in institutes and conferences offer additional chances for students to engage first-hand in a way that supports overall civic engagement.

Programs to Support Student Engagement

The below organizations can help support students who seek to enhance civic learning and engagement on school campuses. In light of COVID-19, many of these organizations are providing resources to support civic engagement virtually.

Miscellaneous Tips, Skills, and Ideas

These resources can help students as they carry out their civic engagement projects. Resources include advice on writing professional emails, ideas for community service projects, and helpful checklists to guide projects from start to finish.

This list will grow over time. Have you come across any other helpful guides or tools directed specifically towards helping students carry out the day-to-day work of civic engagement projects? Please share them with the CDE at ssce@cde.ca.gov.

Reminders, guidelines, and samples to help students write a variety of professional emails.

Professional Learning Opportunities for Educators

The 2016 HSS Framework incorporates critical shifts for educators. These shifts include a focus on inquiry-based instruction through innovative teaching and learning practices. The HSS Framework guides educators as they design, implement, and maintain a coherent course of study to teach content; develop inquiry-based critical thinking skills; improve reading comprehension and expository writing ability; and promote an engaged and knowledgeable citizenry in history and the related social sciences.

The Budget Act of 2017 included an allocation of funds for high-quality professional learning and resources for HSS educators and administrators to implement the new framework. Through funding from the CDE, the Sacramento County Office of Education has developed a system of statewide and regional communities of practice to provide meaningful and targeted support in HSS for classroom teachers, paraprofessionals, and site administrators. Representing the four instructional shifts described in the HSS Framework, the Content, Literacy, Inquiry, and Citizenship (CLIC) Project develops and facilitates the many elements integral for successful implementation of the HSS Framework. As part of their work, the CLIC Project hosts a YouTube channel that contains videos to support educators and administrators as they implement the HSS Framework, including videos on fostering student advocacy and classroom approaches to civic learning .

Below is a list of additional professional learning institutes, courses, and other opportunities to support educators as they implement civic learning programs.

External Websites Dedicated to the State Seal of Civic Engagement

The websites listed below have been developed by California organizations that are supporting LEAs to implement the SSCE. These sites are being updated as new resources become available.

California History-Social Science Project Sites

Each of the below CHSSP sites has a variety of resources to support professional learning in civics.

Institutes

Coaching, Seminars, Training Videos, Toolkits

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

# data[].attributes.body
Info and materia

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

Educators, administrators, students, families, community members, and others are encouraged to use these resources to support civic engagement inside and outside the classroom, especially as students work to earn the California State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE). Please use the contact information at the bottom of the page if you have questions, or to learn more about the SSCE.

Distance Learning During COVID-19

Students can still be civically engaged, even in this new and rapidly changing educational landscape. Many of the resources listed on the tabs below can be adapted for distance learning, and some programs are already providing resources designed for a virtual environment. Additionally, the links below contain several resources specifically designed to teach civics through distance learning during the COVID-19 response.

The CHSSP provides History-Social Science (HSS) resources to support teachers engaged in distance learning and parents helping children learn at home, including a parent's guide to History-Social Science (HSS).

The Office of the Governor California Volunteers Program has special opportunities to get involved with the COVID-19 volunteer response.

This page contains comprehensive information about California's COVID-19 response, including ways to become involved in the effort.
CDE Resources to Support Distance Learning
This page aggregates guidance documents, webinars, and content-specific links to support distance learning in a variety of subjects.

This article, published in the Journal of Public Affairs in April 2019, details one professor's development and implementation of a civics project in an online American government course.

These free resources from iCivics include games and toolkits designed for educators and families to use for distance learning.

Street Law provides interactive curriculum and training for teaching young people about the law and government. This list has been updated to include at-home civics learning resources and strategies.

This growing list highlights organizations that are producing and elevating resources to support civic engagement through distance learning.

Foundational Documents for Civic Engagement

In 2013, Former State Superintendent of Public Instruction (SSPI), Tom Torlakson, introduced the Civics Education Initiative. This included a series of programs and resources geared toward revitalizing statewide civic education:

The following documents provide research, case studies, and policy recommendations for improving student civic engagement.

Research and Reports

Published in 2003 as part of a partnership between the Carnegie Corporation, the Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement, this document represented an effort to gather scholars and practitioners to determine the most effective, feasible civic education programs possible. The report serves as the foundation for several other documents in this collection, and marks the beginning of the current national push to improve civic education.

The result of a three-year state-led collaborative effort, the C3 Framework for Social Studies State Standards was developed for states to upgrade their social studies standards, and for local school districts, schools, teachers, and curriculum writers to strengthen their social studies programs. Its objectives are to: (a) enhance the rigor of the social studies disciplines; (b) build critical thinking, problem solving, and participatory skills to become engaged citizens; and (c) align academic programs to the Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts and Literacy in HSS.

This 2020 report was published in the Journal of Social Studies Research to discuss the role of emotion in citizenship and presents an argument for critical affective literacy in civic education classrooms. The report also offers instructional strategies for handling the political emotions of students.

This article outlines the importance of schools promoting equity, social justice, and civic engagement in schools. It also provides an explanation of how the State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE), the Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) process, Multi-Tiered System of Supports and related efforts to incorporate civic engagement standards into the California School Dashboard can help equitable civic empowerment for all students.

This report, published by Educational Testing Service in the leadup to the 2012 presidential election, analyzes how gaps in educational attainment and income indicate fault lines in our democracy by predicting voting and civic engagement rates. The report includes specific data on young adults' civic engagement compared to their income and education, and makes recommendations for schools, colleges, and adult education.

This publication provides several key strategies for advancing civic education system wide based on experiences promoting civic learning and engagement in Chicago, Illinois and Riverside, California.

This 2011 report builds and expands on the findings of the 2003 Civic Mission of Schools. The report updates research on the benefits of civic learning, outlines the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning, and makes policy recommendations for improving civic outcomes.

This article focuses on the idea of "lived civics" as a frame for more effective civic learning by explicitly addressing the interests and experiences of young people through the context of best practices in teaching civics. The article offers ideas on reframing civics content and instruction, and includes a review of contemporary civics literature, principles of lived civics, and reflections for educators to consider.

This study of civic learning in California school districts draws upon LCAPs and district mission statements to assess the degree to which districts are focused on and devoting resources to civic priorities. It provides several key findings based upon the data, and makes recommendations for supporting the SSCE and moving forward with a systemic commitment to, and investment in, civic learning.

This report, published in 2017, adds several complementary streams of research and practice to the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning. Ideas for enhancing civic education with news media literacy education, action civics, social and emotional learning, and school climate reform are included, as well as two case studies of states improving their civic learning plans.
Revitalizing K-12 Civic Learning In California: A Blueprint For Action (PDF)
This report, by the California Task Force on K-12 Civic Learning, was published in August 2014 as a partnership between former SSPI Tom Torlakson and Supreme Court Chief Justice Tani G. Cantil-Sakauye. The report offers system-wide recommendations to improve civic learning, including revising the HSS Content Standards and Framework and improving professional learning opportunities.

Published in 2014 by the Education Commission of States, this guidebook is a resource for teachers, administrators, policymakers, and others who want to put the Six Proven Practices in place but are not sure where to begin. The document highlights research and provides practical suggestions for implementing each practice.

Council is a sharing method, focused on empathy and active listening. It can be effective especially when working on topics such as personal development and strengthening of group dynamics.

This 2013 conference, funded by the Bechtel Foundation, brought together several experts on youth civic development and citizenship education in order to promote civic development and participation for youth from all backgrounds. The report outlines recommendations regarding improving citizenship education nationwide.

General, Comprehensive Resources

These organizations offer a variety of programs to support civic learning at all levels and for a variety of audiences.

Webinars, podcasts, and curriculum to support civic engagement from a global perspective.

Series of civics programs, community partnership opportunities, lesson resources, and other publications.

Extensive array of lesson resources including Bill of Rights in Action, Civics On Call, civic scenarios and simulations, and more.

Wide variety of resources for educators , school leaders, students and families that address racism, anti-semitism, and prejudice throughout history. Key resources include curriculum, strategies, webinars, Teaching with Current Events , the Choosing to Participate Toolkit , and Fostering Civil Discourse: How do We Talk about Issues that Matter .

Classroom activities and lessons, voter registration information, teacher training and resources, school and district resources, and research on civic education.

Program geared towards helping civics educators implement comprehensive civics education programs. Includes lesson plans, an E-Congress, mock elections, research, current events discussion support, and teacher training.

Searchable Resource Databases

These sites include searchable resource databases that provide information for educators, administrators, families, and students.

Database of resources focused on career and technical education lessons. Includes primary sources, lesson plans, strategies, and resources to support Project Based Learning.

Articles, reports, lesson plans and other resources that support civic engagement.

Searchable database of resources dedicated to civic engagement. Search by content or by standard, or play games, check out curriculum units, or plan a civics scope and sequence. They also offer resources to support distance learning.

The National Endowment for the Humanities provides this resource that contains lesson plans, curricula, and full teacher's guides for grades K-12. Search by topic and grade level. Resources are HSS-focused, but also include literature, language arts, arts and culture.

Database focused on lessons for civics, government, and law-related education for K-12 students. Includes simulations, discussions, mock trials, case studies, and other research-based materials. Filter lessons by grade level, lesson topic, strategy, or standard.

Resources Targeted by Grade Level or Function

Below are recommended resources organized by grade level (kindergarten through grade eight [K-8], and grades nine through twelve [9-12]). Please keep in mind that many resources can span multiple grade levels based on individual student needs, and educators should review and adapt all resources before implementing them.

Resources for Kindergarten through Grade Eight

Even the youngest students can become civically engaged! The following resources can help K-8 students get excited about civics.

Apprentice-level learning adventures geared at teaching kids ages four through eight about the U.S. government.

One-day workshops for students and advisors to focus on teamwork and building ideas for effective student governance.

Elementary schools are encouraged to apply for Civic Learning Awards and participate in the Judges in the Classroom Program. Lesson resources are also available for elementary students on the Digital Chalkboard.

A wide range of short articles on various topics in world history, American history, and government. Also includes a series of biographies on dozens of influential individuals.

Field trips designed for kindergarten through grade two (K-2) students focusing on fundamental principles of democracy.

Students can choose from a variety of games ranging in length from 0-30+ minutes on topics such as voting, arguing Supreme Court cases, and international diplomacy.

Interdisciplinary lesson resources that use literacy and mock trials to teach key principles of civics. Some lessons are created for students in grades four and five.

Series of lessons that teach about the electoral process and encourage citizenship in the classroom, school, home and community.
Rendell Center for Civics and Civic Engagement Literature-Based Mock Trials
Lesson plans focused on teaching the skills of civil discourse when discussing social justice issues, designed for a K-2 audience.

Resources for Grades Nine through Twelve

These resources are appropriate for students primarily in high school, although many can be adapted for grades 6-8.

Information about SOS initiatives to educate and engage young Californian's in the democratic process, including programs to pre-register to vote at age 16, High School Voter Education Weeks, California Student Mock Elections, and guidance for school administrators and teachers.

An online resource for studying democracy, designed for use by teachers, professors, and college and secondary students. Includes information on essential principles of democracy, a study guide for democracy, and comparative information on the study of freedom internationally.

Curriculum for high school teachers, including an action project, research and blogging, democracy in action, and infographics.

The Institute for Local Government's PYLG units focus on roles, responsibilities, and processes of local government.

Funded by the S.D. Bechtel, Jr. Foundation, the Action Civics initiative worked to civic awareness and engagement in 14 middle and high schools in the Sacramento region. This site includes resources to support professional development provided through the program and other tools to support civic learning. The initiative also developed resources for middle school students.

High school law course materials, Supreme Court of the United States in the Classroom program, and rule of law education curriculum.

Collection of documents that focus on specific issues in American civic history. Each collection has an introduction that provides necessary context and three sets of study questions. Each of the documents is annotated with footnotes that provide biographical information on document authors and identify obscure words, events, or individuals.

Supporting the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning

This page contains some of the strongest resources for incorporating each of the Six Proven Practices of Effective Civic Learning.

The California Courts recognize and celebrate public schools' efforts to engage students in civic learning through their annual Civic Learning Awards . Co-sponsored by Chief Justice Cantil-Sakauye. Seventy-five schools earned awards in 2020. Schools seeking to earn an award may also refer to this list of resources as they set up or enhance their civic learning programs.

Instruction in Government, History, Law, Democracy

Schools can offer courses on civics, government, history, and law, in an effort to encourage better-informed citizens. The below resources include vetted, easy-to-implement curricula to support these courses.

Current Events and Controversial Issues

Effective classroom discussions of current events and controversial issues can increase student interest in government. The below resources provide a variety of options for facilitating these types of engaging discussions.

Service-Learning

Service-learning opportunities provide ways for students and the community to come together to develop habits of community engagement. These resources can help educators facilitate projects, while also tying them back to the classroom.

Extracurricular Activities

Student-led volunteer projects that occur outside of the classroom can also teach skills in collaboration and civic participation. The below organizations provide resources and ongoing support for students, teachers, administrators, and families.

Student Participation in School Governance

Giving students a voice can also help increase understanding and appreciation of the intricacies of the democratic process as it also teaches key behaviors of citizenship. These organizations provide guidance and support for schools implementing a structure for student voice in school governance.

Simulations

Simulations allow students to simulate adult civic roles and offer a unique, deep civic learning experience. Some of these programs use role-playing games to simulate government, helping students participate in processes such as national elections.

Resources for Students

The below resources are especially helpful for students looking to become more civically engaged.

Student Institutes and Conferences

While not officially part of the Six Proven Practices, participation in institutes and conferences offer additional chances for students to engage first-hand in a way that supports overall civic engagement.

Programs to Support Student Engagement

The below organizations can help support students who seek to enhance civic learning and engagement on school campuses. In light of COVID-19, many of these organizations are providing resources to support civic engagement virtually.

Miscellaneous Tips, Skills, and Ideas

These resources can help students as they carry out their civic engagement projects. Resources include advice on writing professional emails, ideas for community service projects, and helpful checklists to guide projects from start to finish.

This list will grow over time. Have you come across any other helpful guides or tools directed specifically towards helping students carry out the day-to-day work of civic engagement projects? Please share them with the CDE at ssce@cde.ca.gov.

Reminders, guidelines, and samples to help students write a variety of professional emails.

Professional Learning Opportunities for Educators

The 2016 HSS Framework incorporates critical shifts for educators. These shifts include a focus on inquiry-based instruction through innovative teaching and learning practices. The HSS Framework guides educators as they design, implement, and maintain a coherent course of study to teach content; develop inquiry-based critical thinking skills; improve reading comprehension and expository writing ability; and promote an engaged and knowledgeable citizenry in history and the related social sciences.

The Budget Act of 2017 included an allocation of funds for high-quality professional learning and resources for HSS educators and administrators to implement the new framework. Through funding from the CDE, the Sacramento County Office of Education has developed a system of statewide and regional communities of practice to provide meaningful and targeted support in HSS for classroom teachers, paraprofessionals, and site administrators. Representing the four instructional shifts described in the HSS Framework, the Content, Literacy, Inquiry, and Citizenship (CLIC) Project develops and facilitates the many elements integral for successful implementation of the HSS Framework. As part of their work, the CLIC Project hosts a YouTube channel that contains videos to support educators and administrators as they implement the HSS Framework, including videos on fostering student advocacy and classroom approaches to civic learning .

Below is a list of additional professional learning institutes, courses, and other opportunities to support educators as they implement civic learning programs.

External Websites Dedicated to the State Seal of Civic Engagement

The websites listed below have been developed by California organizations that are supporting LEAs to implement the SSCE. These sites are being updated as new resources become available.

California History-Social Science Project Sites

Each of the below CHSSP sites has a variety of resources to support professional learning in civics.

Institutes

Coaching, Seminars, Training Videos, Toolkits

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

# data[].attributes.body
Info and mate

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

Educators, administrators, students, families, community members, and others are encouraged to use these resources to support civic engagement inside and outside the classroom, especially as students work to earn the California State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE). Please use the contact information at the bottom of the page if you have questions, or to learn more about the SSCE.

Distance Learning During COVID-19

Students can still be civically engaged, even in this new and rapidly changing educational landscape. Many of the resources listed on the tabs below can be adapted for distance learning, and some programs are already providing resources designed for a virtual environment. Additionally, the links below contain several resources specifically designed to teach civics through distance learning during the COVID-19 response.

The CHSSP provides History-Social Science (HSS) resources to support teachers engaged in distance learning and parents helping children learn at home, including a parent's guide to History-Social Science (HSS).

The Office of the Governor California Volunteers Program has special opportunities to get involved with the COVID-19 volunteer response.

This page contains comprehensive information about California's COVID-19 response, including ways to become involved in the effort.
CDE Resources to Support Distance Learning
This page aggregates guidance documents, webinars, and content-specific links to support distance learning in a variety of subjects.

This article, published in the Journal of Public Affairs in April 2019, details one professor's development and implementation of a civics project in an online American government course.

These free resources from iCivics include games and toolkits designed for educators and families to use for distance learning.

Street Law provides interactive curriculum and training for teaching young people about the law and government. This list has been updated to include at-home civics learning resources and strategies.

This growing list highlights organizations that are producing and elevating resources to support civic engagement through distance learning.

Foundational Documents for Civic Engagement

In 2013, Former State Superintendent of Public Instruction (SSPI), Tom Torlakson, introduced the Civics Education Initiative. This included a series of programs and resources geared toward revitalizing statewide civic education:

The following documents provide research, case studies, and policy recommendations for improving student civic engagement.

Research and Reports

Published in 2003 as part of a partnership between the Carnegie Corporation, the Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement, this document represented an effort to gather scholars and practitioners to determine the most effective, feasible civic education programs possible. The report serves as the foundation for several other documents in this collection, and marks the beginning of the current national push to improve civic education.

The result of a three-year state-led collaborative effort, the C3 Framework for Social Studies State Standards was developed for states to upgrade their social studies standards, and for local school districts, schools, teachers, and curriculum writers to strengthen their social studies programs. Its objectives are to: (a) enhance the rigor of the social studies disciplines; (b) build critical thinking, problem solving, and participatory skills to become engaged citizens; and (c) align academic programs to the Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts and Literacy in HSS.

This 2020 report was published in the Journal of Social Studies Research to discuss the role of emotion in citizenship and presents an argument for critical affective literacy in civic education classrooms. The report also offers instructional strategies for handling the political emotions of students.

This article outlines the importance of schools promoting equity, social justice, and civic engagement in schools. It also provides an explanation of how the State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE), the Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) process, Multi-Tiered System of Supports and related efforts to incorporate civic engagement standards into the California School Dashboard can help equitable civic empowerment for all students.

This report, published by Educational Testing Service in the leadup to the 2012 presidential election, analyzes how gaps in educational attainment and income indicate fault lines in our democracy by predicting voting and civic engagement rates. The report includes specific data on young adults' civic engagement compared to their income and education, and makes recommendations for schools, colleges, and adult education.

This publication provides several key strategies for advancing civic education system wide based on experiences promoting civic learning and engagement in Chicago, Illinois and Riverside, California.

This 2011 report builds and expands on the findings of the 2003 Civic Mission of Schools. The report updates research on the benefits of civic learning, outlines the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning, and makes policy recommendations for improving civic outcomes.

This article focuses on the idea of "lived civics" as a frame for more effective civic learning by explicitly addressing the interests and experiences of young people through the context of best practices in teaching civics. The article offers ideas on reframing civics content and instruction, and includes a review of contemporary civics literature, principles of lived civics, and reflections for educators to consider.

This study of civic learning in California school districts draws upon LCAPs and district mission statements to assess the degree to which districts are focused on and devoting resources to civic priorities. It provides several key findings based upon the data, and makes recommendations for supporting the SSCE and moving forward with a systemic commitment to, and investment in, civic learning.

This report, published in 2017, adds several complementary streams of research and practice to the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning. Ideas for enhancing civic education with news media literacy education, action civics, social and emotional learning, and school climate reform are included, as well as two case studies of states improving their civic learning plans.
Revitalizing K-12 Civic Learning In California: A Blueprint For Action (PDF)
This report, by the California Task Force on K-12 Civic Learning, was published in August 2014 as a partnership between former SSPI Tom Torlakson and Supreme Court Chief Justice Tani G. Cantil-Sakauye. The report offers system-wide recommendations to improve civic learning, including revising the HSS Content Standards and Framework and improving professional learning opportunities.

Published in 2014 by the Education Commission of States, this guidebook is a resource for teachers, administrators, policymakers, and others who want to put the Six Proven Practices in place but are not sure where to begin. The document highlights research and provides practical suggestions for implementing each practice.

Council is a sharing method, focused on empathy and active listening. It can be effective especially when working on topics such as personal development and strengthening of group dynamics.

This 2013 conference, funded by the Bechtel Foundation, brought together several experts on youth civic development and citizenship education in order to promote civic development and participation for youth from all backgrounds. The report outlines recommendations regarding improving citizenship education nationwide.

General, Comprehensive Resources

These organizations offer a variety of programs to support civic learning at all levels and for a variety of audiences.

Webinars, podcasts, and curriculum to support civic engagement from a global perspective.

Series of civics programs, community partnership opportunities, lesson resources, and other publications.

Extensive array of lesson resources including Bill of Rights in Action, Civics On Call, civic scenarios and simulations, and more.

Wide variety of resources for educators , school leaders, students and families that address racism, anti-semitism, and prejudice throughout history. Key resources include curriculum, strategies, webinars, Teaching with Current Events , the Choosing to Participate Toolkit , and Fostering Civil Discourse: How do We Talk about Issues that Matter .

Classroom activities and lessons, voter registration information, teacher training and resources, school and district resources, and research on civic education.

Program geared towards helping civics educators implement comprehensive civics education programs. Includes lesson plans, an E-Congress, mock elections, research, current events discussion support, and teacher training.

Searchable Resource Databases

These sites include searchable resource databases that provide information for educators, administrators, families, and students.

Database of resources focused on career and technical education lessons. Includes primary sources, lesson plans, strategies, and resources to support Project Based Learning.

Articles, reports, lesson plans and other resources that support civic engagement.

Searchable database of resources dedicated to civic engagement. Search by content or by standard, or play games, check out curriculum units, or plan a civics scope and sequence. They also offer resources to support distance learning.

The National Endowment for the Humanities provides this resource that contains lesson plans, curricula, and full teacher's guides for grades K-12. Search by topic and grade level. Resources are HSS-focused, but also include literature, language arts, arts and culture.

Database focused on lessons for civics, government, and law-related education for K-12 students. Includes simulations, discussions, mock trials, case studies, and other research-based materials. Filter lessons by grade level, lesson topic, strategy, or standard.

Resources Targeted by Grade Level or Function

Below are recommended resources organized by grade level (kindergarten through grade eight [K-8], and grades nine through twelve [9-12]). Please keep in mind that many resources can span multiple grade levels based on individual student needs, and educators should review and adapt all resources before implementing them.

Resources for Kindergarten through Grade Eight

Even the youngest students can become civically engaged! The following resources can help K-8 students get excited about civics.

Apprentice-level learning adventures geared at teaching kids ages four through eight about the U.S. government.

One-day workshops for students and advisors to focus on teamwork and building ideas for effective student governance.

Elementary schools are encouraged to apply for Civic Learning Awards and participate in the Judges in the Classroom Program. Lesson resources are also available for elementary students on the Digital Chalkboard.

A wide range of short articles on various topics in world history, American history, and government. Also includes a series of biographies on dozens of influential individuals.

Field trips designed for kindergarten through grade two (K-2) students focusing on fundamental principles of democracy.

Students can choose from a variety of games ranging in length from 0-30+ minutes on topics such as voting, arguing Supreme Court cases, and international diplomacy.

Interdisciplinary lesson resources that use literacy and mock trials to teach key principles of civics. Some lessons are created for students in grades four and five.

Series of lessons that teach about the electoral process and encourage citizenship in the classroom, school, home and community.
Rendell Center for Civics and Civic Engagement Literature-Based Mock Trials
Lesson plans focused on teaching the skills of civil discourse when discussing social justice issues, designed for a K-2 audience.

Resources for Grades Nine through Twelve

These resources are appropriate for students primarily in high school, although many can be adapted for grades 6-8.

Information about SOS initiatives to educate and engage young Californian's in the democratic process, including programs to pre-register to vote at age 16, High School Voter Education Weeks, California Student Mock Elections, and guidance for school administrators and teachers.

An online resource for studying democracy, designed for use by teachers, professors, and college and secondary students. Includes information on essential principles of democracy, a study guide for democracy, and comparative information on the study of freedom internationally.

Curriculum for high school teachers, including an action project, research and blogging, democracy in action, and infographics.

The Institute for Local Government's PYLG units focus on roles, responsibilities, and processes of local government.

Funded by the S.D. Bechtel, Jr. Foundation, the Action Civics initiative worked to civic awareness and engagement in 14 middle and high schools in the Sacramento region. This site includes resources to support professional development provided through the program and other tools to support civic learning. The initiative also developed resources for middle school students.

High school law course materials, Supreme Court of the United States in the Classroom program, and rule of law education curriculum.

Collection of documents that focus on specific issues in American civic history. Each collection has an introduction that provides necessary context and three sets of study questions. Each of the documents is annotated with footnotes that provide biographical information on document authors and identify obscure words, events, or individuals.

Supporting the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning

This page contains some of the strongest resources for incorporating each of the Six Proven Practices of Effective Civic Learning.

The California Courts recognize and celebrate public schools' efforts to engage students in civic learning through their annual Civic Learning Awards . Co-sponsored by Chief Justice Cantil-Sakauye. Seventy-five schools earned awards in 2020. Schools seeking to earn an award may also refer to this list of resources as they set up or enhance their civic learning programs.

Instruction in Government, History, Law, Democracy

Schools can offer courses on civics, government, history, and law, in an effort to encourage better-informed citizens. The below resources include vetted, easy-to-implement curricula to support these courses.

Current Events and Controversial Issues

Effective classroom discussions of current events and controversial issues can increase student interest in government. The below resources provide a variety of options for facilitating these types of engaging discussions.

Service-Learning

Service-learning opportunities provide ways for students and the community to come together to develop habits of community engagement. These resources can help educators facilitate projects, while also tying them back to the classroom.

Extracurricular Activities

Student-led volunteer projects that occur outside of the classroom can also teach skills in collaboration and civic participation. The below organizations provide resources and ongoing support for students, teachers, administrators, and families.

Student Participation in School Governance

Giving students a voice can also help increase understanding and appreciation of the intricacies of the democratic process as it also teaches key behaviors of citizenship. These organizations provide guidance and support for schools implementing a structure for student voice in school governance.

Simulations

Simulations allow students to simulate adult civic roles and offer a unique, deep civic learning experience. Some of these programs use role-playing games to simulate government, helping students participate in processes such as national elections.

Resources for Students

The below resources are especially helpful for students looking to become more civically engaged.

Student Institutes and Conferences

While not officially part of the Six Proven Practices, participation in institutes and conferences offer additional chances for students to engage first-hand in a way that supports overall civic engagement.

Programs to Support Student Engagement

The below organizations can help support students who seek to enhance civic learning and engagement on school campuses. In light of COVID-19, many of these organizations are providing resources to support civic engagement virtually.

Miscellaneous Tips, Skills, and Ideas

These resources can help students as they carry out their civic engagement projects. Resources include advice on writing professional emails, ideas for community service projects, and helpful checklists to guide projects from start to finish.

This list will grow over time. Have you come across any other helpful guides or tools directed specifically towards helping students carry out the day-to-day work of civic engagement projects? Please share them with the CDE at ssce@cde.ca.gov.

Reminders, guidelines, and samples to help students write a variety of professional emails.

Professional Learning Opportunities for Educators

The 2016 HSS Framework incorporates critical shifts for educators. These shifts include a focus on inquiry-based instruction through innovative teaching and learning practices. The HSS Framework guides educators as they design, implement, and maintain a coherent course of study to teach content; develop inquiry-based critical thinking skills; improve reading comprehension and expository writing ability; and promote an engaged and knowledgeable citizenry in history and the related social sciences.

The Budget Act of 2017 included an allocation of funds for high-quality professional learning and resources for HSS educators and administrators to implement the new framework. Through funding from the CDE, the Sacramento County Office of Education has developed a system of statewide and regional communities of practice to provide meaningful and targeted support in HSS for classroom teachers, paraprofessionals, and site administrators. Representing the four instructional shifts described in the HSS Framework, the Content, Literacy, Inquiry, and Citizenship (CLIC) Project develops and facilitates the many elements integral for successful implementation of the HSS Framework. As part of their work, the CLIC Project hosts a YouTube channel that contains videos to support educators and administrators as they implement the HSS Framework, including videos on fostering student advocacy and classroom approaches to civic learning .

Below is a list of additional professional learning institutes, courses, and other opportunities to support educators as they implement civic learning programs.

External Websites Dedicated to the State Seal of Civic Engagement

The websites listed below have been developed by California organizations that are supporting LEAs to implement the SSCE. These sites are being updated as new resources become available.

California History-Social Science Project Sites

Each of the below CHSSP sites has a variety of resources to support professional learning in civics.

Institutes

Coaching, Seminars, Training Videos, Toolkits

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

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Info and

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

Educators, administrators, students, families, community members, and others are encouraged to use these resources to support civic engagement inside and outside the classroom, especially as students work to earn the California State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE). Please use the contact information at the bottom of the page if you have questions, or to learn more about the SSCE.

Distance Learning During COVID-19

Students can still be civically engaged, even in this new and rapidly changing educational landscape. Many of the resources listed on the tabs below can be adapted for distance learning, and some programs are already providing resources designed for a virtual environment. Additionally, the links below contain several resources specifically designed to teach civics through distance learning during the COVID-19 response.

The CHSSP provides History-Social Science (HSS) resources to support teachers engaged in distance learning and parents helping children learn at home, including a parent's guide to History-Social Science (HSS).

The Office of the Governor California Volunteers Program has special opportunities to get involved with the COVID-19 volunteer response.

This page contains comprehensive information about California's COVID-19 response, including ways to become involved in the effort.
CDE Resources to Support Distance Learning
This page aggregates guidance documents, webinars, and content-specific links to support distance learning in a variety of subjects.

This article, published in the Journal of Public Affairs in April 2019, details one professor's development and implementation of a civics project in an online American government course.

These free resources from iCivics include games and toolkits designed for educators and families to use for distance learning.

Street Law provides interactive curriculum and training for teaching young people about the law and government. This list has been updated to include at-home civics learning resources and strategies.

This growing list highlights organizations that are producing and elevating resources to support civic engagement through distance learning.

Foundational Documents for Civic Engagement

In 2013, Former State Superintendent of Public Instruction (SSPI), Tom Torlakson, introduced the Civics Education Initiative. This included a series of programs and resources geared toward revitalizing statewide civic education:

The following documents provide research, case studies, and policy recommendations for improving student civic engagement.

Research and Reports

Published in 2003 as part of a partnership between the Carnegie Corporation, the Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement, this document represented an effort to gather scholars and practitioners to determine the most effective, feasible civic education programs possible. The report serves as the foundation for several other documents in this collection, and marks the beginning of the current national push to improve civic education.

The result of a three-year state-led collaborative effort, the C3 Framework for Social Studies State Standards was developed for states to upgrade their social studies standards, and for local school districts, schools, teachers, and curriculum writers to strengthen their social studies programs. Its objectives are to: (a) enhance the rigor of the social studies disciplines; (b) build critical thinking, problem solving, and participatory skills to become engaged citizens; and (c) align academic programs to the Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts and Literacy in HSS.

This 2020 report was published in the Journal of Social Studies Research to discuss the role of emotion in citizenship and presents an argument for critical affective literacy in civic education classrooms. The report also offers instructional strategies for handling the political emotions of students.

This article outlines the importance of schools promoting equity, social justice, and civic engagement in schools. It also provides an explanation of how the State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE), the Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) process, Multi-Tiered System of Supports and related efforts to incorporate civic engagement standards into the California School Dashboard can help equitable civic empowerment for all students.

This report, published by Educational Testing Service in the leadup to the 2012 presidential election, analyzes how gaps in educational attainment and income indicate fault lines in our democracy by predicting voting and civic engagement rates. The report includes specific data on young adults' civic engagement compared to their income and education, and makes recommendations for schools, colleges, and adult education.

This publication provides several key strategies for advancing civic education system wide based on experiences promoting civic learning and engagement in Chicago, Illinois and Riverside, California.

This 2011 report builds and expands on the findings of the 2003 Civic Mission of Schools. The report updates research on the benefits of civic learning, outlines the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning, and makes policy recommendations for improving civic outcomes.

This article focuses on the idea of "lived civics" as a frame for more effective civic learning by explicitly addressing the interests and experiences of young people through the context of best practices in teaching civics. The article offers ideas on reframing civics content and instruction, and includes a review of contemporary civics literature, principles of lived civics, and reflections for educators to consider.

This study of civic learning in California school districts draws upon LCAPs and district mission statements to assess the degree to which districts are focused on and devoting resources to civic priorities. It provides several key findings based upon the data, and makes recommendations for supporting the SSCE and moving forward with a systemic commitment to, and investment in, civic learning.

This report, published in 2017, adds several complementary streams of research and practice to the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning. Ideas for enhancing civic education with news media literacy education, action civics, social and emotional learning, and school climate reform are included, as well as two case studies of states improving their civic learning plans.
Revitalizing K-12 Civic Learning In California: A Blueprint For Action (PDF)
This report, by the California Task Force on K-12 Civic Learning, was published in August 2014 as a partnership between former SSPI Tom Torlakson and Supreme Court Chief Justice Tani G. Cantil-Sakauye. The report offers system-wide recommendations to improve civic learning, including revising the HSS Content Standards and Framework and improving professional learning opportunities.

Published in 2014 by the Education Commission of States, this guidebook is a resource for teachers, administrators, policymakers, and others who want to put the Six Proven Practices in place but are not sure where to begin. The document highlights research and provides practical suggestions for implementing each practice.

Council is a sharing method, focused on empathy and active listening. It can be effective especially when working on topics such as personal development and strengthening of group dynamics.

This 2013 conference, funded by the Bechtel Foundation, brought together several experts on youth civic development and citizenship education in order to promote civic development and participation for youth from all backgrounds. The report outlines recommendations regarding improving citizenship education nationwide.

General, Comprehensive Resources

These organizations offer a variety of programs to support civic learning at all levels and for a variety of audiences.

Webinars, podcasts, and curriculum to support civic engagement from a global perspective.

Series of civics programs, community partnership opportunities, lesson resources, and other publications.

Extensive array of lesson resources including Bill of Rights in Action, Civics On Call, civic scenarios and simulations, and more.

Wide variety of resources for educators , school leaders, students and families that address racism, anti-semitism, and prejudice throughout history. Key resources include curriculum, strategies, webinars, Teaching with Current Events , the Choosing to Participate Toolkit , and Fostering Civil Discourse: How do We Talk about Issues that Matter .

Classroom activities and lessons, voter registration information, teacher training and resources, school and district resources, and research on civic education.

Program geared towards helping civics educators implement comprehensive civics education programs. Includes lesson plans, an E-Congress, mock elections, research, current events discussion support, and teacher training.

Searchable Resource Databases

These sites include searchable resource databases that provide information for educators, administrators, families, and students.

Database of resources focused on career and technical education lessons. Includes primary sources, lesson plans, strategies, and resources to support Project Based Learning.

Articles, reports, lesson plans and other resources that support civic engagement.

Searchable database of resources dedicated to civic engagement. Search by content or by standard, or play games, check out curriculum units, or plan a civics scope and sequence. They also offer resources to support distance learning.

The National Endowment for the Humanities provides this resource that contains lesson plans, curricula, and full teacher's guides for grades K-12. Search by topic and grade level. Resources are HSS-focused, but also include literature, language arts, arts and culture.

Database focused on lessons for civics, government, and law-related education for K-12 students. Includes simulations, discussions, mock trials, case studies, and other research-based materials. Filter lessons by grade level, lesson topic, strategy, or standard.

Resources Targeted by Grade Level or Function

Below are recommended resources organized by grade level (kindergarten through grade eight [K-8], and grades nine through twelve [9-12]). Please keep in mind that many resources can span multiple grade levels based on individual student needs, and educators should review and adapt all resources before implementing them.

Resources for Kindergarten through Grade Eight

Even the youngest students can become civically engaged! The following resources can help K-8 students get excited about civics.

Apprentice-level learning adventures geared at teaching kids ages four through eight about the U.S. government.

One-day workshops for students and advisors to focus on teamwork and building ideas for effective student governance.

Elementary schools are encouraged to apply for Civic Learning Awards and participate in the Judges in the Classroom Program. Lesson resources are also available for elementary students on the Digital Chalkboard.

A wide range of short articles on various topics in world history, American history, and government. Also includes a series of biographies on dozens of influential individuals.

Field trips designed for kindergarten through grade two (K-2) students focusing on fundamental principles of democracy.

Students can choose from a variety of games ranging in length from 0-30+ minutes on topics such as voting, arguing Supreme Court cases, and international diplomacy.

Interdisciplinary lesson resources that use literacy and mock trials to teach key principles of civics. Some lessons are created for students in grades four and five.

Series of lessons that teach about the electoral process and encourage citizenship in the classroom, school, home and community.
Rendell Center for Civics and Civic Engagement Literature-Based Mock Trials
Lesson plans focused on teaching the skills of civil discourse when discussing social justice issues, designed for a K-2 audience.

Resources for Grades Nine through Twelve

These resources are appropriate for students primarily in high school, although many can be adapted for grades 6-8.

Information about SOS initiatives to educate and engage young Californian's in the democratic process, including programs to pre-register to vote at age 16, High School Voter Education Weeks, California Student Mock Elections, and guidance for school administrators and teachers.

An online resource for studying democracy, designed for use by teachers, professors, and college and secondary students. Includes information on essential principles of democracy, a study guide for democracy, and comparative information on the study of freedom internationally.

Curriculum for high school teachers, including an action project, research and blogging, democracy in action, and infographics.

The Institute for Local Government's PYLG units focus on roles, responsibilities, and processes of local government.

Funded by the S.D. Bechtel, Jr. Foundation, the Action Civics initiative worked to civic awareness and engagement in 14 middle and high schools in the Sacramento region. This site includes resources to support professional development provided through the program and other tools to support civic learning. The initiative also developed resources for middle school students.

High school law course materials, Supreme Court of the United States in the Classroom program, and rule of law education curriculum.

Collection of documents that focus on specific issues in American civic history. Each collection has an introduction that provides necessary context and three sets of study questions. Each of the documents is annotated with footnotes that provide biographical information on document authors and identify obscure words, events, or individuals.

Supporting the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning

This page contains some of the strongest resources for incorporating each of the Six Proven Practices of Effective Civic Learning.

The California Courts recognize and celebrate public schools' efforts to engage students in civic learning through their annual Civic Learning Awards . Co-sponsored by Chief Justice Cantil-Sakauye. Seventy-five schools earned awards in 2020. Schools seeking to earn an award may also refer to this list of resources as they set up or enhance their civic learning programs.

Instruction in Government, History, Law, Democracy

Schools can offer courses on civics, government, history, and law, in an effort to encourage better-informed citizens. The below resources include vetted, easy-to-implement curricula to support these courses.

Current Events and Controversial Issues

Effective classroom discussions of current events and controversial issues can increase student interest in government. The below resources provide a variety of options for facilitating these types of engaging discussions.

Service-Learning

Service-learning opportunities provide ways for students and the community to come together to develop habits of community engagement. These resources can help educators facilitate projects, while also tying them back to the classroom.

Extracurricular Activities

Student-led volunteer projects that occur outside of the classroom can also teach skills in collaboration and civic participation. The below organizations provide resources and ongoing support for students, teachers, administrators, and families.

Student Participation in School Governance

Giving students a voice can also help increase understanding and appreciation of the intricacies of the democratic process as it also teaches key behaviors of citizenship. These organizations provide guidance and support for schools implementing a structure for student voice in school governance.

Simulations

Simulations allow students to simulate adult civic roles and offer a unique, deep civic learning experience. Some of these programs use role-playing games to simulate government, helping students participate in processes such as national elections.

Resources for Students

The below resources are especially helpful for students looking to become more civically engaged.

Student Institutes and Conferences

While not officially part of the Six Proven Practices, participation in institutes and conferences offer additional chances for students to engage first-hand in a way that supports overall civic engagement.

Programs to Support Student Engagement

The below organizations can help support students who seek to enhance civic learning and engagement on school campuses. In light of COVID-19, many of these organizations are providing resources to support civic engagement virtually.

Miscellaneous Tips, Skills, and Ideas

These resources can help students as they carry out their civic engagement projects. Resources include advice on writing professional emails, ideas for community service projects, and helpful checklists to guide projects from start to finish.

This list will grow over time. Have you come across any other helpful guides or tools directed specifically towards helping students carry out the day-to-day work of civic engagement projects? Please share them with the CDE at ssce@cde.ca.gov.

Reminders, guidelines, and samples to help students write a variety of professional emails.

Professional Learning Opportunities for Educators

The 2016 HSS Framework incorporates critical shifts for educators. These shifts include a focus on inquiry-based instruction through innovative teaching and learning practices. The HSS Framework guides educators as they design, implement, and maintain a coherent course of study to teach content; develop inquiry-based critical thinking skills; improve reading comprehension and expository writing ability; and promote an engaged and knowledgeable citizenry in history and the related social sciences.

The Budget Act of 2017 included an allocation of funds for high-quality professional learning and resources for HSS educators and administrators to implement the new framework. Through funding from the CDE, the Sacramento County Office of Education has developed a system of statewide and regional communities of practice to provide meaningful and targeted support in HSS for classroom teachers, paraprofessionals, and site administrators. Representing the four instructional shifts described in the HSS Framework, the Content, Literacy, Inquiry, and Citizenship (CLIC) Project develops and facilitates the many elements integral for successful implementation of the HSS Framework. As part of their work, the CLIC Project hosts a YouTube channel that contains videos to support educators and administrators as they implement the HSS Framework, including videos on fostering student advocacy and classroom approaches to civic learning .

Below is a list of additional professional learning institutes, courses, and other opportunities to support educators as they implement civic learning programs.

External Websites Dedicated to the State Seal of Civic Engagement

The websites listed below have been developed by California organizations that are supporting LEAs to implement the SSCE. These sites are being updated as new resources become available.

California History-Social Science Project Sites

Each of the below CHSSP sites has a variety of resources to support professional learning in civics.

Institutes

Coaching, Seminars, Training Videos, Toolkits

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

# data[].attributes.body
Info

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

Educators, administrators, students, families, community members, and others are encouraged to use these resources to support civic engagement inside and outside the classroom, especially as students work to earn the California State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE). Please use the contact information at the bottom of the page if you have questions, or to learn more about the SSCE.

Distance Learning During COVID-19

Students can still be civically engaged, even in this new and rapidly changing educational landscape. Many of the resources listed on the tabs below can be adapted for distance learning, and some programs are already providing resources designed for a virtual environment. Additionally, the links below contain several resources specifically designed to teach civics through distance learning during the COVID-19 response.

The CHSSP provides History-Social Science (HSS) resources to support teachers engaged in distance learning and parents helping children learn at home, including a parent's guide to History-Social Science (HSS).

The Office of the Governor California Volunteers Program has special opportunities to get involved with the COVID-19 volunteer response.

This page contains comprehensive information about California's COVID-19 response, including ways to become involved in the effort.
CDE Resources to Support Distance Learning
This page aggregates guidance documents, webinars, and content-specific links to support distance learning in a variety of subjects.

This article, published in the Journal of Public Affairs in April 2019, details one professor's development and implementation of a civics project in an online American government course.

These free resources from iCivics include games and toolkits designed for educators and families to use for distance learning.

Street Law provides interactive curriculum and training for teaching young people about the law and government. This list has been updated to include at-home civics learning resources and strategies.

This growing list highlights organizations that are producing and elevating resources to support civic engagement through distance learning.

Foundational Documents for Civic Engagement

In 2013, Former State Superintendent of Public Instruction (SSPI), Tom Torlakson, introduced the Civics Education Initiative. This included a series of programs and resources geared toward revitalizing statewide civic education:

The following documents provide research, case studies, and policy recommendations for improving student civic engagement.

Research and Reports

Published in 2003 as part of a partnership between the Carnegie Corporation, the Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement, this document represented an effort to gather scholars and practitioners to determine the most effective, feasible civic education programs possible. The report serves as the foundation for several other documents in this collection, and marks the beginning of the current national push to improve civic education.

The result of a three-year state-led collaborative effort, the C3 Framework for Social Studies State Standards was developed for states to upgrade their social studies standards, and for local school districts, schools, teachers, and curriculum writers to strengthen their social studies programs. Its objectives are to: (a) enhance the rigor of the social studies disciplines; (b) build critical thinking, problem solving, and participatory skills to become engaged citizens; and (c) align academic programs to the Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts and Literacy in HSS.

This 2020 report was published in the Journal of Social Studies Research to discuss the role of emotion in citizenship and presents an argument for critical affective literacy in civic education classrooms. The report also offers instructional strategies for handling the political emotions of students.

This article outlines the importance of schools promoting equity, social justice, and civic engagement in schools. It also provides an explanation of how the State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE), the Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) process, Multi-Tiered System of Supports and related efforts to incorporate civic engagement standards into the California School Dashboard can help equitable civic empowerment for all students.

This report, published by Educational Testing Service in the leadup to the 2012 presidential election, analyzes how gaps in educational attainment and income indicate fault lines in our democracy by predicting voting and civic engagement rates. The report includes specific data on young adults' civic engagement compared to their income and education, and makes recommendations for schools, colleges, and adult education.

This publication provides several key strategies for advancing civic education system wide based on experiences promoting civic learning and engagement in Chicago, Illinois and Riverside, California.

This 2011 report builds and expands on the findings of the 2003 Civic Mission of Schools. The report updates research on the benefits of civic learning, outlines the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning, and makes policy recommendations for improving civic outcomes.

This article focuses on the idea of "lived civics" as a frame for more effective civic learning by explicitly addressing the interests and experiences of young people through the context of best practices in teaching civics. The article offers ideas on reframing civics content and instruction, and includes a review of contemporary civics literature, principles of lived civics, and reflections for educators to consider.

This study of civic learning in California school districts draws upon LCAPs and district mission statements to assess the degree to which districts are focused on and devoting resources to civic priorities. It provides several key findings based upon the data, and makes recommendations for supporting the SSCE and moving forward with a systemic commitment to, and investment in, civic learning.

This report, published in 2017, adds several complementary streams of research and practice to the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning. Ideas for enhancing civic education with news media literacy education, action civics, social and emotional learning, and school climate reform are included, as well as two case studies of states improving their civic learning plans.
Revitalizing K-12 Civic Learning In California: A Blueprint For Action (PDF)
This report, by the California Task Force on K-12 Civic Learning, was published in August 2014 as a partnership between former SSPI Tom Torlakson and Supreme Court Chief Justice Tani G. Cantil-Sakauye. The report offers system-wide recommendations to improve civic learning, including revising the HSS Content Standards and Framework and improving professional learning opportunities.

Published in 2014 by the Education Commission of States, this guidebook is a resource for teachers, administrators, policymakers, and others who want to put the Six Proven Practices in place but are not sure where to begin. The document highlights research and provides practical suggestions for implementing each practice.

Council is a sharing method, focused on empathy and active listening. It can be effective especially when working on topics such as personal development and strengthening of group dynamics.

This 2013 conference, funded by the Bechtel Foundation, brought together several experts on youth civic development and citizenship education in order to promote civic development and participation for youth from all backgrounds. The report outlines recommendations regarding improving citizenship education nationwide.

General, Comprehensive Resources

These organizations offer a variety of programs to support civic learning at all levels and for a variety of audiences.

Webinars, podcasts, and curriculum to support civic engagement from a global perspective.

Series of civics programs, community partnership opportunities, lesson resources, and other publications.

Extensive array of lesson resources including Bill of Rights in Action, Civics On Call, civic scenarios and simulations, and more.

Wide variety of resources for educators , school leaders, students and families that address racism, anti-semitism, and prejudice throughout history. Key resources include curriculum, strategies, webinars, Teaching with Current Events , the Choosing to Participate Toolkit , and Fostering Civil Discourse: How do We Talk about Issues that Matter .

Classroom activities and lessons, voter registration information, teacher training and resources, school and district resources, and research on civic education.

Program geared towards helping civics educators implement comprehensive civics education programs. Includes lesson plans, an E-Congress, mock elections, research, current events discussion support, and teacher training.

Searchable Resource Databases

These sites include searchable resource databases that provide information for educators, administrators, families, and students.

Database of resources focused on career and technical education lessons. Includes primary sources, lesson plans, strategies, and resources to support Project Based Learning.

Articles, reports, lesson plans and other resources that support civic engagement.

Searchable database of resources dedicated to civic engagement. Search by content or by standard, or play games, check out curriculum units, or plan a civics scope and sequence. They also offer resources to support distance learning.

The National Endowment for the Humanities provides this resource that contains lesson plans, curricula, and full teacher's guides for grades K-12. Search by topic and grade level. Resources are HSS-focused, but also include literature, language arts, arts and culture.

Database focused on lessons for civics, government, and law-related education for K-12 students. Includes simulations, discussions, mock trials, case studies, and other research-based materials. Filter lessons by grade level, lesson topic, strategy, or standard.

Resources Targeted by Grade Level or Function

Below are recommended resources organized by grade level (kindergarten through grade eight [K-8], and grades nine through twelve [9-12]). Please keep in mind that many resources can span multiple grade levels based on individual student needs, and educators should review and adapt all resources before implementing them.

Resources for Kindergarten through Grade Eight

Even the youngest students can become civically engaged! The following resources can help K-8 students get excited about civics.

Apprentice-level learning adventures geared at teaching kids ages four through eight about the U.S. government.

One-day workshops for students and advisors to focus on teamwork and building ideas for effective student governance.

Elementary schools are encouraged to apply for Civic Learning Awards and participate in the Judges in the Classroom Program. Lesson resources are also available for elementary students on the Digital Chalkboard.

A wide range of short articles on various topics in world history, American history, and government. Also includes a series of biographies on dozens of influential individuals.

Field trips designed for kindergarten through grade two (K-2) students focusing on fundamental principles of democracy.

Students can choose from a variety of games ranging in length from 0-30+ minutes on topics such as voting, arguing Supreme Court cases, and international diplomacy.

Interdisciplinary lesson resources that use literacy and mock trials to teach key principles of civics. Some lessons are created for students in grades four and five.

Series of lessons that teach about the electoral process and encourage citizenship in the classroom, school, home and community.
Rendell Center for Civics and Civic Engagement Literature-Based Mock Trials
Lesson plans focused on teaching the skills of civil discourse when discussing social justice issues, designed for a K-2 audience.

Resources for Grades Nine through Twelve

These resources are appropriate for students primarily in high school, although many can be adapted for grades 6-8.

Information about SOS initiatives to educate and engage young Californian's in the democratic process, including programs to pre-register to vote at age 16, High School Voter Education Weeks, California Student Mock Elections, and guidance for school administrators and teachers.

An online resource for studying democracy, designed for use by teachers, professors, and college and secondary students. Includes information on essential principles of democracy, a study guide for democracy, and comparative information on the study of freedom internationally.

Curriculum for high school teachers, including an action project, research and blogging, democracy in action, and infographics.

The Institute for Local Government's PYLG units focus on roles, responsibilities, and processes of local government.

Funded by the S.D. Bechtel, Jr. Foundation, the Action Civics initiative worked to civic awareness and engagement in 14 middle and high schools in the Sacramento region. This site includes resources to support professional development provided through the program and other tools to support civic learning. The initiative also developed resources for middle school students.

High school law course materials, Supreme Court of the United States in the Classroom program, and rule of law education curriculum.

Collection of documents that focus on specific issues in American civic history. Each collection has an introduction that provides necessary context and three sets of study questions. Each of the documents is annotated with footnotes that provide biographical information on document authors and identify obscure words, events, or individuals.

Supporting the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning

This page contains some of the strongest resources for incorporating each of the Six Proven Practices of Effective Civic Learning.

The California Courts recognize and celebrate public schools' efforts to engage students in civic learning through their annual Civic Learning Awards . Co-sponsored by Chief Justice Cantil-Sakauye. Seventy-five schools earned awards in 2020. Schools seeking to earn an award may also refer to this list of resources as they set up or enhance their civic learning programs.

Instruction in Government, History, Law, Democracy

Schools can offer courses on civics, government, history, and law, in an effort to encourage better-informed citizens. The below resources include vetted, easy-to-implement curricula to support these courses.

Current Events and Controversial Issues

Effective classroom discussions of current events and controversial issues can increase student interest in government. The below resources provide a variety of options for facilitating these types of engaging discussions.

Service-Learning

Service-learning opportunities provide ways for students and the community to come together to develop habits of community engagement. These resources can help educators facilitate projects, while also tying them back to the classroom.

Extracurricular Activities

Student-led volunteer projects that occur outside of the classroom can also teach skills in collaboration and civic participation. The below organizations provide resources and ongoing support for students, teachers, administrators, and families.

Student Participation in School Governance

Giving students a voice can also help increase understanding and appreciation of the intricacies of the democratic process as it also teaches key behaviors of citizenship. These organizations provide guidance and support for schools implementing a structure for student voice in school governance.

Simulations

Simulations allow students to simulate adult civic roles and offer a unique, deep civic learning experience. Some of these programs use role-playing games to simulate government, helping students participate in processes such as national elections.

Resources for Students

The below resources are especially helpful for students looking to become more civically engaged.

Student Institutes and Conferences

While not officially part of the Six Proven Practices, participation in institutes and conferences offer additional chances for students to engage first-hand in a way that supports overall civic engagement.

Programs to Support Student Engagement

The below organizations can help support students who seek to enhance civic learning and engagement on school campuses. In light of COVID-19, many of these organizations are providing resources to support civic engagement virtually.

Miscellaneous Tips, Skills, and Ideas

These resources can help students as they carry out their civic engagement projects. Resources include advice on writing professional emails, ideas for community service projects, and helpful checklists to guide projects from start to finish.

This list will grow over time. Have you come across any other helpful guides or tools directed specifically towards helping students carry out the day-to-day work of civic engagement projects? Please share them with the CDE at ssce@cde.ca.gov.

Reminders, guidelines, and samples to help students write a variety of professional emails.

Professional Learning Opportunities for Educators

The 2016 HSS Framework incorporates critical shifts for educators. These shifts include a focus on inquiry-based instruction through innovative teaching and learning practices. The HSS Framework guides educators as they design, implement, and maintain a coherent course of study to teach content; develop inquiry-based critical thinking skills; improve reading comprehension and expository writing ability; and promote an engaged and knowledgeable citizenry in history and the related social sciences.

The Budget Act of 2017 included an allocation of funds for high-quality professional learning and resources for HSS educators and administrators to implement the new framework. Through funding from the CDE, the Sacramento County Office of Education has developed a system of statewide and regional communities of practice to provide meaningful and targeted support in HSS for classroom teachers, paraprofessionals, and site administrators. Representing the four instructional shifts described in the HSS Framework, the Content, Literacy, Inquiry, and Citizenship (CLIC) Project develops and facilitates the many elements integral for successful implementation of the HSS Framework. As part of their work, the CLIC Project hosts a YouTube channel that contains videos to support educators and administrators as they implement the HSS Framework, including videos on fostering student advocacy and classroom approaches to civic learning .

Below is a list of additional professional learning institutes, courses, and other opportunities to support educators as they implement civic learning programs.

External Websites Dedicated to the State Seal of Civic Engagement

The websites listed below have been developed by California organizations that are supporting LEAs to implement the SSCE. These sites are being updated as new resources become available.

California History-Social Science Project Sites

Each of the below CHSSP sites has a variety of resources to support professional learning in civics.

Institutes

Coaching, Seminars, Training Videos, Toolkits

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President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

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President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

Educators, administrators, students, families, community members, and others are encouraged to use these resources to support civic engagement inside and outside the classroom, especially as students work to earn the California State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE). Please use the contact information at the bottom of the page if you have questions, or to learn more about the SSCE.

Distance Learning During COVID-19

Students can still be civically engaged, even in this new and rapidly changing educational landscape. Many of the resources listed on the tabs below can be adapted for distance learning, and some programs are already providing resources designed for a virtual environment. Additionally, the links below contain several resources specifically designed to teach civics through distance learning during the COVID-19 response.

The CHSSP provides History-Social Science (HSS) resources to support teachers engaged in distance learning and parents helping children learn at home, including a parent's guide to History-Social Science (HSS).

The Office of the Governor California Volunteers Program has special opportunities to get involved with the COVID-19 volunteer response.

This page contains comprehensive information about California's COVID-19 response, including ways to become involved in the effort.
CDE Resources to Support Distance Learning
This page aggregates guidance documents, webinars, and content-specific links to support distance learning in a variety of subjects.

This article, published in the Journal of Public Affairs in April 2019, details one professor's development and implementation of a civics project in an online American government course.

These free resources from iCivics include games and toolkits designed for educators and families to use for distance learning.

Street Law provides interactive curriculum and training for teaching young people about the law and government. This list has been updated to include at-home civics learning resources and strategies.

This growing list highlights organizations that are producing and elevating resources to support civic engagement through distance learning.

Foundational Documents for Civic Engagement

In 2013, Former State Superintendent of Public Instruction (SSPI), Tom Torlakson, introduced the Civics Education Initiative. This included a series of programs and resources geared toward revitalizing statewide civic education:

The following documents provide research, case studies, and policy recommendations for improving student civic engagement.

Research and Reports

Published in 2003 as part of a partnership between the Carnegie Corporation, the Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement, this document represented an effort to gather scholars and practitioners to determine the most effective, feasible civic education programs possible. The report serves as the foundation for several other documents in this collection, and marks the beginning of the current national push to improve civic education.

The result of a three-year state-led collaborative effort, the C3 Framework for Social Studies State Standards was developed for states to upgrade their social studies standards, and for local school districts, schools, teachers, and curriculum writers to strengthen their social studies programs. Its objectives are to: (a) enhance the rigor of the social studies disciplines; (b) build critical thinking, problem solving, and participatory skills to become engaged citizens; and (c) align academic programs to the Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts and Literacy in HSS.

This 2020 report was published in the Journal of Social Studies Research to discuss the role of emotion in citizenship and presents an argument for critical affective literacy in civic education classrooms. The report also offers instructional strategies for handling the political emotions of students.

This article outlines the importance of schools promoting equity, social justice, and civic engagement in schools. It also provides an explanation of how the State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE), the Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) process, Multi-Tiered System of Supports and related efforts to incorporate civic engagement standards into the California School Dashboard can help equitable civic empowerment for all students.

This report, published by Educational Testing Service in the leadup to the 2012 presidential election, analyzes how gaps in educational attainment and income indicate fault lines in our democracy by predicting voting and civic engagement rates. The report includes specific data on young adults' civic engagement compared to their income and education, and makes recommendations for schools, colleges, and adult education.

This publication provides several key strategies for advancing civic education system wide based on experiences promoting civic learning and engagement in Chicago, Illinois and Riverside, California.

This 2011 report builds and expands on the findings of the 2003 Civic Mission of Schools. The report updates research on the benefits of civic learning, outlines the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning, and makes policy recommendations for improving civic outcomes.

This article focuses on the idea of "lived civics" as a frame for more effective civic learning by explicitly addressing the interests and experiences of young people through the context of best practices in teaching civics. The article offers ideas on reframing civics content and instruction, and includes a review of contemporary civics literature, principles of lived civics, and reflections for educators to consider.

This study of civic learning in California school districts draws upon LCAPs and district mission statements to assess the degree to which districts are focused on and devoting resources to civic priorities. It provides several key findings based upon the data, and makes recommendations for supporting the SSCE and moving forward with a systemic commitment to, and investment in, civic learning.

This report, published in 2017, adds several complementary streams of research and practice to the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning. Ideas for enhancing civic education with news media literacy education, action civics, social and emotional learning, and school climate reform are included, as well as two case studies of states improving their civic learning plans.
Revitalizing K-12 Civic Learning In California: A Blueprint For Action (PDF)
This report, by the California Task Force on K-12 Civic Learning, was published in August 2014 as a partnership between former SSPI Tom Torlakson and Supreme Court Chief Justice Tani G. Cantil-Sakauye. The report offers system-wide recommendations to improve civic learning, including revising the HSS Content Standards and Framework and improving professional learning opportunities.

Published in 2014 by the Education Commission of States, this guidebook is a resource for teachers, administrators, policymakers, and others who want to put the Six Proven Practices in place but are not sure where to begin. The document highlights research and provides practical suggestions for implementing each practice.

Council is a sharing method, focused on empathy and active listening. It can be effective especially when working on topics such as personal development and strengthening of group dynamics.

This 2013 conference, funded by the Bechtel Foundation, brought together several experts on youth civic development and citizenship education in order to promote civic development and participation for youth from all backgrounds. The report outlines recommendations regarding improving citizenship education nationwide.

General, Comprehensive Resources

These organizations offer a variety of programs to support civic learning at all levels and for a variety of audiences.

Webinars, podcasts, and curriculum to support civic engagement from a global perspective.

Series of civics programs, community partnership opportunities, lesson resources, and other publications.

Extensive array of lesson resources including Bill of Rights in Action, Civics On Call, civic scenarios and simulations, and more.

Wide variety of resources for educators , school leaders, students and families that address racism, anti-semitism, and prejudice throughout history. Key resources include curriculum, strategies, webinars, Teaching with Current Events , the Choosing to Participate Toolkit , and Fostering Civil Discourse: How do We Talk about Issues that Matter .

Classroom activities and lessons, voter registration information, teacher training and resources, school and district resources, and research on civic education.

Program geared towards helping civics educators implement comprehensive civics education programs. Includes lesson plans, an E-Congress, mock elections, research, current events discussion support, and teacher training.

Searchable Resource Databases

These sites include searchable resource databases that provide information for educators, administrators, families, and students.

Database of resources focused on career and technical education lessons. Includes primary sources, lesson plans, strategies, and resources to support Project Based Learning.

Articles, reports, lesson plans and other resources that support civic engagement.

Searchable database of resources dedicated to civic engagement. Search by content or by standard, or play games, check out curriculum units, or plan a civics scope and sequence. They also offer resources to support distance learning.

The National Endowment for the Humanities provides this resource that contains lesson plans, curricula, and full teacher's guides for grades K-12. Search by topic and grade level. Resources are HSS-focused, but also include literature, language arts, arts and culture.

Database focused on lessons for civics, government, and law-related education for K-12 students. Includes simulations, discussions, mock trials, case studies, and other research-based materials. Filter lessons by grade level, lesson topic, strategy, or standard.

Resources Targeted by Grade Level or Function

Below are recommended resources organized by grade level (kindergarten through grade eight [K-8], and grades nine through twelve [9-12]). Please keep in mind that many resources can span multiple grade levels based on individual student needs, and educators should review and adapt all resources before implementing them.

Resources for Kindergarten through Grade Eight

Even the youngest students can become civically engaged! The following resources can help K-8 students get excited about civics.

Apprentice-level learning adventures geared at teaching kids ages four through eight about the U.S. government.

One-day workshops for students and advisors to focus on teamwork and building ideas for effective student governance.

Elementary schools are encouraged to apply for Civic Learning Awards and participate in the Judges in the Classroom Program. Lesson resources are also available for elementary students on the Digital Chalkboard.

A wide range of short articles on various topics in world history, American history, and government. Also includes a series of biographies on dozens of influential individuals.

Field trips designed for kindergarten through grade two (K-2) students focusing on fundamental principles of democracy.

Students can choose from a variety of games ranging in length from 0-30+ minutes on topics such as voting, arguing Supreme Court cases, and international diplomacy.

Interdisciplinary lesson resources that use literacy and mock trials to teach key principles of civics. Some lessons are created for students in grades four and five.

Series of lessons that teach about the electoral process and encourage citizenship in the classroom, school, home and community.
Rendell Center for Civics and Civic Engagement Literature-Based Mock Trials
Lesson plans focused on teaching the skills of civil discourse when discussing social justice issues, designed for a K-2 audience.

Resources for Grades Nine through Twelve

These resources are appropriate for students primarily in high school, although many can be adapted for grades 6-8.

Information about SOS initiatives to educate and engage young Californian's in the democratic process, including programs to pre-register to vote at age 16, High School Voter Education Weeks, California Student Mock Elections, and guidance for school administrators and teachers.

An online resource for studying democracy, designed for use by teachers, professors, and college and secondary students. Includes information on essential principles of democracy, a study guide for democracy, and comparative information on the study of freedom internationally.

Curriculum for high school teachers, including an action project, research and blogging, democracy in action, and infographics.

The Institute for Local Government's PYLG units focus on roles, responsibilities, and processes of local government.

Funded by the S.D. Bechtel, Jr. Foundation, the Action Civics initiative worked to civic awareness and engagement in 14 middle and high schools in the Sacramento region. This site includes resources to support professional development provided through the program and other tools to support civic learning. The initiative also developed resources for middle school students.

High school law course materials, Supreme Court of the United States in the Classroom program, and rule of law education curriculum.

Collection of documents that focus on specific issues in American civic history. Each collection has an introduction that provides necessary context and three sets of study questions. Each of the documents is annotated with footnotes that provide biographical information on document authors and identify obscure words, events, or individuals.

Supporting the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning

This page contains some of the strongest resources for incorporating each of the Six Proven Practices of Effective Civic Learning.

The California Courts recognize and celebrate public schools' efforts to engage students in civic learning through their annual Civic Learning Awards . Co-sponsored by Chief Justice Cantil-Sakauye. Seventy-five schools earned awards in 2020. Schools seeking to earn an award may also refer to this list of resources as they set up or enhance their civic learning programs.

Instruction in Government, History, Law, Democracy

Schools can offer courses on civics, government, history, and law, in an effort to encourage better-informed citizens. The below resources include vetted, easy-to-implement curricula to support these courses.

Current Events and Controversial Issues

Effective classroom discussions of current events and controversial issues can increase student interest in government. The below resources provide a variety of options for facilitating these types of engaging discussions.

Service-Learning

Service-learning opportunities provide ways for students and the community to come together to develop habits of community engagement. These resources can help educators facilitate projects, while also tying them back to the classroom.

Extracurricular Activities

Student-led volunteer projects that occur outside of the classroom can also teach skills in collaboration and civic participation. The below organizations provide resources and ongoing support for students, teachers, administrators, and families.

Student Participation in School Governance

Giving students a voice can also help increase understanding and appreciation of the intricacies of the democratic process as it also teaches key behaviors of citizenship. These organizations provide guidance and support for schools implementing a structure for student voice in school governance.

Simulations

Simulations allow students to simulate adult civic roles and offer a unique, deep civic learning experience. Some of these programs use role-playing games to simulate government, helping students participate in processes such as national elections.

Resources for Students

The below resources are especially helpful for students looking to become more civically engaged.

Student Institutes and Conferences

While not officially part of the Six Proven Practices, participation in institutes and conferences offer additional chances for students to engage first-hand in a way that supports overall civic engagement.

Programs to Support Student Engagement

The below organizations can help support students who seek to enhance civic learning and engagement on school campuses. In light of COVID-19, many of these organizations are providing resources to support civic engagement virtually.

Miscellaneous Tips, Skills, and Ideas

These resources can help students as they carry out their civic engagement projects. Resources include advice on writing professional emails, ideas for community service projects, and helpful checklists to guide projects from start to finish.

This list will grow over time. Have you come across any other helpful guides or tools directed specifically towards helping students carry out the day-to-day work of civic engagement projects? Please share them with the CDE at ssce@cde.ca.gov.

Reminders, guidelines, and samples to help students write a variety of professional emails.

Professional Learning Opportunities for Educators

The 2016 HSS Framework incorporates critical shifts for educators. These shifts include a focus on inquiry-based instruction through innovative teaching and learning practices. The HSS Framework guides educators as they design, implement, and maintain a coherent course of study to teach content; develop inquiry-based critical thinking skills; improve reading comprehension and expository writing ability; and promote an engaged and knowledgeable citizenry in history and the related social sciences.

The Budget Act of 2017 included an allocation of funds for high-quality professional learning and resources for HSS educators and administrators to implement the new framework. Through funding from the CDE, the Sacramento County Office of Education has developed a system of statewide and regional communities of practice to provide meaningful and targeted support in HSS for classroom teachers, paraprofessionals, and site administrators. Representing the four instructional shifts described in the HSS Framework, the Content, Literacy, Inquiry, and Citizenship (CLIC) Project develops and facilitates the many elements integral for successful implementation of the HSS Framework. As part of their work, the CLIC Project hosts a YouTube channel that contains videos to support educators and administrators as they implement the HSS Framework, including videos on fostering student advocacy and classroom approaches to civic learning .

Below is a list of additional professional learning institutes, courses, and other opportunities to support educators as they implement civic learning programs.

External Websites Dedicated to the State Seal of Civic Engagement

The websites listed below have been developed by California organizations that are supporting LEAs to implement the SSCE. These sites are being updated as new resources become available.

California History-Social Science Project Sites

Each of the below CHSSP sites has a variety of resources to support professional learning in civics.

Institutes

Coaching, Seminars, Training Videos, Toolkits

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

Educators, administrators, students, families, community members, and others are encouraged to use these resources to support civic engagement inside and outside the classroom, especially as students work to earn the California State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE). Please use the contact information at the bottom of the page if you have questions, or to learn more about the SSCE.

Distance Learning During COVID-19

Students can still be civically engaged, even in this new and rapidly changing educational landscape. Many of the resources listed on the tabs below can be adapted for distance learning, and some programs are already providing resources designed for a virtual environment. Additionally, the links below contain several resources specifically designed to teach civics through distance learning during the COVID-19 response.

The CHSSP provides History-Social Science (HSS) resources to support teachers engaged in distance learning and parents helping children learn at home, including a parent's guide to History-Social Science (HSS).

The Office of the Governor California Volunteers Program has special opportunities to get involved with the COVID-19 volunteer response.

This page contains comprehensive information about California's COVID-19 response, including ways to become involved in the effort.
CDE Resources to Support Distance Learning
This page aggregates guidance documents, webinars, and content-specific links to support distance learning in a variety of subjects.

This article, published in the Journal of Public Affairs in April 2019, details one professor's development and implementation of a civics project in an online American government course.

These free resources from iCivics include games and toolkits designed for educators and families to use for distance learning.

Street Law provides interactive curriculum and training for teaching young people about the law and government. This list has been updated to include at-home civics learning resources and strategies.

This growing list highlights organizations that are producing and elevating resources to support civic engagement through distance learning.

Foundational Documents for Civic Engagement

In 2013, Former State Superintendent of Public Instruction (SSPI), Tom Torlakson, introduced the Civics Education Initiative. This included a series of programs and resources geared toward revitalizing statewide civic education:

The following documents provide research, case studies, and policy recommendations for improving student civic engagement.

Research and Reports

Published in 2003 as part of a partnership between the Carnegie Corporation, the Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement, this document represented an effort to gather scholars and practitioners to determine the most effective, feasible civic education programs possible. The report serves as the foundation for several other documents in this collection, and marks the beginning of the current national push to improve civic education.

The result of a three-year state-led collaborative effort, the C3 Framework for Social Studies State Standards was developed for states to upgrade their social studies standards, and for local school districts, schools, teachers, and curriculum writers to strengthen their social studies programs. Its objectives are to: (a) enhance the rigor of the social studies disciplines; (b) build critical thinking, problem solving, and participatory skills to become engaged citizens; and (c) align academic programs to the Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts and Literacy in HSS.

This 2020 report was published in the Journal of Social Studies Research to discuss the role of emotion in citizenship and presents an argument for critical affective literacy in civic education classrooms. The report also offers instructional strategies for handling the political emotions of students.

This article outlines the importance of schools promoting equity, social justice, and civic engagement in schools. It also provides an explanation of how the State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE), the Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) process, Multi-Tiered System of Supports and related efforts to incorporate civic engagement standards into the California School Dashboard can help equitable civic empowerment for all students.

This report, published by Educational Testing Service in the leadup to the 2012 presidential election, analyzes how gaps in educational attainment and income indicate fault lines in our democracy by predicting voting and civic engagement rates. The report includes specific data on young adults' civic engagement compared to their income and education, and makes recommendations for schools, colleges, and adult education.

This publication provides several key strategies for advancing civic education system wide based on experiences promoting civic learning and engagement in Chicago, Illinois and Riverside, California.

This 2011 report builds and expands on the findings of the 2003 Civic Mission of Schools. The report updates research on the benefits of civic learning, outlines the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning, and makes policy recommendations for improving civic outcomes.

This article focuses on the idea of "lived civics" as a frame for more effective civic learning by explicitly addressing the interests and experiences of young people through the context of best practices in teaching civics. The article offers ideas on reframing civics content and instruction, and includes a review of contemporary civics literature, principles of lived civics, and reflections for educators to consider.

This study of civic learning in California school districts draws upon LCAPs and district mission statements to assess the degree to which districts are focused on and devoting resources to civic priorities. It provides several key findings based upon the data, and makes recommendations for supporting the SSCE and moving forward with a systemic commitment to, and investment in, civic learning.

This report, published in 2017, adds several complementary streams of research and practice to the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning. Ideas for enhancing civic education with news media literacy education, action civics, social and emotional learning, and school climate reform are included, as well as two case studies of states improving their civic learning plans.
Revitalizing K-12 Civic Learning In California: A Blueprint For Action (PDF)
This report, by the California Task Force on K-12 Civic Learning, was published in August 2014 as a partnership between former SSPI Tom Torlakson and Supreme Court Chief Justice Tani G. Cantil-Sakauye. The report offers system-wide recommendations to improve civic learning, including revising the HSS Content Standards and Framework and improving professional learning opportunities.

Published in 2014 by the Education Commission of States, this guidebook is a resource for teachers, administrators, policymakers, and others who want to put the Six Proven Practices in place but are not sure where to begin. The document highlights research and provides practical suggestions for implementing each practice.

Council is a sharing method, focused on empathy and active listening. It can be effective especially when working on topics such as personal development and strengthening of group dynamics.

This 2013 conference, funded by the Bechtel Foundation, brought together several experts on youth civic development and citizenship education in order to promote civic development and participation for youth from all backgrounds. The report outlines recommendations regarding improving citizenship education nationwide.

General, Comprehensive Resources

These organizations offer a variety of programs to support civic learning at all levels and for a variety of audiences.

Webinars, podcasts, and curriculum to support civic engagement from a global perspective.

Series of civics programs, community partnership opportunities, lesson resources, and other publications.

Extensive array of lesson resources including Bill of Rights in Action, Civics On Call, civic scenarios and simulations, and more.

Wide variety of resources for educators , school leaders, students and families that address racism, anti-semitism, and prejudice throughout history. Key resources include curriculum, strategies, webinars, Teaching with Current Events , the Choosing to Participate Toolkit , and Fostering Civil Discourse: How do We Talk about Issues that Matter .

Classroom activities and lessons, voter registration information, teacher training and resources, school and district resources, and research on civic education.

Program geared towards helping civics educators implement comprehensive civics education programs. Includes lesson plans, an E-Congress, mock elections, research, current events discussion support, and teacher training.

Searchable Resource Databases

These sites include searchable resource databases that provide information for educators, administrators, families, and students.

Database of resources focused on career and technical education lessons. Includes primary sources, lesson plans, strategies, and resources to support Project Based Learning.

Articles, reports, lesson plans and other resources that support civic engagement.

Searchable database of resources dedicated to civic engagement. Search by content or by standard, or play games, check out curriculum units, or plan a civics scope and sequence. They also offer resources to support distance learning.

The National Endowment for the Humanities provides this resource that contains lesson plans, curricula, and full teacher's guides for grades K-12. Search by topic and grade level. Resources are HSS-focused, but also include literature, language arts, arts and culture.

Database focused on lessons for civics, government, and law-related education for K-12 students. Includes simulations, discussions, mock trials, case studies, and other research-based materials. Filter lessons by grade level, lesson topic, strategy, or standard.

Resources Targeted by Grade Level or Function

Below are recommended resources organized by grade level (kindergarten through grade eight [K-8], and grades nine through twelve [9-12]). Please keep in mind that many resources can span multiple grade levels based on individual student needs, and educators should review and adapt all resources before implementing them.

Resources for Kindergarten through Grade Eight

Even the youngest students can become civically engaged! The following resources can help K-8 students get excited about civics.

Apprentice-level learning adventures geared at teaching kids ages four through eight about the U.S. government.

One-day workshops for students and advisors to focus on teamwork and building ideas for effective student governance.

Elementary schools are encouraged to apply for Civic Learning Awards and participate in the Judges in the Classroom Program. Lesson resources are also available for elementary students on the Digital Chalkboard.

A wide range of short articles on various topics in world history, American history, and government. Also includes a series of biographies on dozens of influential individuals.

Field trips designed for kindergarten through grade two (K-2) students focusing on fundamental principles of democracy.

Students can choose from a variety of games ranging in length from 0-30+ minutes on topics such as voting, arguing Supreme Court cases, and international diplomacy.

Interdisciplinary lesson resources that use literacy and mock trials to teach key principles of civics. Some lessons are created for students in grades four and five.

Series of lessons that teach about the electoral process and encourage citizenship in the classroom, school, home and community.
Rendell Center for Civics and Civic Engagement Literature-Based Mock Trials
Lesson plans focused on teaching the skills of civil discourse when discussing social justice issues, designed for a K-2 audience.

Resources for Grades Nine through Twelve

These resources are appropriate for students primarily in high school, although many can be adapted for grades 6-8.

Information about SOS initiatives to educate and engage young Californian's in the democratic process, including programs to pre-register to vote at age 16, High School Voter Education Weeks, California Student Mock Elections, and guidance for school administrators and teachers.

An online resource for studying democracy, designed for use by teachers, professors, and college and secondary students. Includes information on essential principles of democracy, a study guide for democracy, and comparative information on the study of freedom internationally.

Curriculum for high school teachers, including an action project, research and blogging, democracy in action, and infographics.

The Institute for Local Government's PYLG units focus on roles, responsibilities, and processes of local government.

Funded by the S.D. Bechtel, Jr. Foundation, the Action Civics initiative worked to civic awareness and engagement in 14 middle and high schools in the Sacramento region. This site includes resources to support professional development provided through the program and other tools to support civic learning. The initiative also developed resources for middle school students.

High school law course materials, Supreme Court of the United States in the Classroom program, and rule of law education curriculum.

Collection of documents that focus on specific issues in American civic history. Each collection has an introduction that provides necessary context and three sets of study questions. Each of the documents is annotated with footnotes that provide biographical information on document authors and identify obscure words, events, or individuals.

Supporting the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning

This page contains some of the strongest resources for incorporating each of the Six Proven Practices of Effective Civic Learning.

The California Courts recognize and celebrate public schools' efforts to engage students in civic learning through their annual Civic Learning Awards . Co-sponsored by Chief Justice Cantil-Sakauye. Seventy-five schools earned awards in 2020. Schools seeking to earn an award may also refer to this list of resources as they set up or enhance their civic learning programs.

Instruction in Government, History, Law, Democracy

Schools can offer courses on civics, government, history, and law, in an effort to encourage better-informed citizens. The below resources include vetted, easy-to-implement curricula to support these courses.

Current Events and Controversial Issues

Effective classroom discussions of current events and controversial issues can increase student interest in government. The below resources provide a variety of options for facilitating these types of engaging discussions.

Service-Learning

Service-learning opportunities provide ways for students and the community to come together to develop habits of community engagement. These resources can help educators facilitate projects, while also tying them back to the classroom.

Extracurricular Activities

Student-led volunteer projects that occur outside of the classroom can also teach skills in collaboration and civic participation. The below organizations provide resources and ongoing support for students, teachers, administrators, and families.

Student Participation in School Governance

Giving students a voice can also help increase understanding and appreciation of the intricacies of the democratic process as it also teaches key behaviors of citizenship. These organizations provide guidance and support for schools implementing a structure for student voice in school governance.

Simulations

Simulations allow students to simulate adult civic roles and offer a unique, deep civic learning experience. Some of these programs use role-playing games to simulate government, helping students participate in processes such as national elections.

Resources for Students

The below resources are especially helpful for students looking to become more civically engaged.

Student Institutes and Conferences

While not officially part of the Six Proven Practices, participation in institutes and conferences offer additional chances for students to engage first-hand in a way that supports overall civic engagement.

Programs to Support Student Engagement

The below organizations can help support students who seek to enhance civic learning and engagement on school campuses. In light of COVID-19, many of these organizations are providing resources to support civic engagement virtually.

Miscellaneous Tips, Skills, and Ideas

These resources can help students as they carry out their civic engagement projects. Resources include advice on writing professional emails, ideas for community service projects, and helpful checklists to guide projects from start to finish.

This list will grow over time. Have you come across any other helpful guides or tools directed specifically towards helping students carry out the day-to-day work of civic engagement projects? Please share them with the CDE at ssce@cde.ca.gov.

Reminders, guidelines, and samples to help students write a variety of professional emails.

Professional Learning Opportunities for Educators

The 2016 HSS Framework incorporates critical shifts for educators. These shifts include a focus on inquiry-based instruction through innovative teaching and learning practices. The HSS Framework guides educators as they design, implement, and maintain a coherent course of study to teach content; develop inquiry-based critical thinking skills; improve reading comprehension and expository writing ability; and promote an engaged and knowledgeable citizenry in history and the related social sciences.

The Budget Act of 2017 included an allocation of funds for high-quality professional learning and resources for HSS educators and administrators to implement the new framework. Through funding from the CDE, the Sacramento County Office of Education has developed a system of statewide and regional communities of practice to provide meaningful and targeted support in HSS for classroom teachers, paraprofessionals, and site administrators. Representing the four instructional shifts described in the HSS Framework, the Content, Literacy, Inquiry, and Citizenship (CLIC) Project develops and facilitates the many elements integral for successful implementation of the HSS Framework. As part of their work, the CLIC Project hosts a YouTube channel that contains videos to support educators and administrators as they implement the HSS Framework, including videos on fostering student advocacy and classroom approaches to civic learning .

Below is a list of additional professional learning institutes, courses, and other opportunities to support educators as they implement civic learning programs.

External Websites Dedicated to the State Seal of Civic Engagement

The websites listed below have been developed by California organizations that are supporting LEAs to implement the SSCE. These sites are being updated as new resources become available.

California History-Social Science Project Sites

Each of the below CHSSP sites has a variety of resources to support professional learning in civics.

Institutes

Coaching, Seminars, Training Videos, Toolkits

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President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

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President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

Educators, administrators, students, families, community members, and others are encouraged to use these resources to support civic engagement inside and outside the classroom, especially as students work to earn the California State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE). Please use the contact information at the bottom of the page if you have questions, or to learn more about the SSCE.

Distance Learning During COVID-19

Students can still be civically engaged, even in this new and rapidly changing educational landscape. Many of the resources listed on the tabs below can be adapted for distance learning, and some programs are already providing resources designed for a virtual environment. Additionally, the links below contain several resources specifically designed to teach civics through distance learning during the COVID-19 response.

The CHSSP provides History-Social Science (HSS) resources to support teachers engaged in distance learning and parents helping children learn at home, including a parent's guide to History-Social Science (HSS).

The Office of the Governor California Volunteers Program has special opportunities to get involved with the COVID-19 volunteer response.

This page contains comprehensive information about California's COVID-19 response, including ways to become involved in the effort.
CDE Resources to Support Distance Learning
This page aggregates guidance documents, webinars, and content-specific links to support distance learning in a variety of subjects.

This article, published in the Journal of Public Affairs in April 2019, details one professor's development and implementation of a civics project in an online American government course.

These free resources from iCivics include games and toolkits designed for educators and families to use for distance learning.

Street Law provides interactive curriculum and training for teaching young people about the law and government. This list has been updated to include at-home civics learning resources and strategies.

This growing list highlights organizations that are producing and elevating resources to support civic engagement through distance learning.

Foundational Documents for Civic Engagement

In 2013, Former State Superintendent of Public Instruction (SSPI), Tom Torlakson, introduced the Civics Education Initiative. This included a series of programs and resources geared toward revitalizing statewide civic education:

The following documents provide research, case studies, and policy recommendations for improving student civic engagement.

Research and Reports

Published in 2003 as part of a partnership between the Carnegie Corporation, the Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement, this document represented an effort to gather scholars and practitioners to determine the most effective, feasible civic education programs possible. The report serves as the foundation for several other documents in this collection, and marks the beginning of the current national push to improve civic education.

The result of a three-year state-led collaborative effort, the C3 Framework for Social Studies State Standards was developed for states to upgrade their social studies standards, and for local school districts, schools, teachers, and curriculum writers to strengthen their social studies programs. Its objectives are to: (a) enhance the rigor of the social studies disciplines; (b) build critical thinking, problem solving, and participatory skills to become engaged citizens; and (c) align academic programs to the Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts and Literacy in HSS.

This 2020 report was published in the Journal of Social Studies Research to discuss the role of emotion in citizenship and presents an argument for critical affective literacy in civic education classrooms. The report also offers instructional strategies for handling the political emotions of students.

This article outlines the importance of schools promoting equity, social justice, and civic engagement in schools. It also provides an explanation of how the State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE), the Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) process, Multi-Tiered System of Supports and related efforts to incorporate civic engagement standards into the California School Dashboard can help equitable civic empowerment for all students.

This report, published by Educational Testing Service in the leadup to the 2012 presidential election, analyzes how gaps in educational attainment and income indicate fault lines in our democracy by predicting voting and civic engagement rates. The report includes specific data on young adults' civic engagement compared to their income and education, and makes recommendations for schools, colleges, and adult education.

This publication provides several key strategies for advancing civic education system wide based on experiences promoting civic learning and engagement in Chicago, Illinois and Riverside, California.

This 2011 report builds and expands on the findings of the 2003 Civic Mission of Schools. The report updates research on the benefits of civic learning, outlines the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning, and makes policy recommendations for improving civic outcomes.

This article focuses on the idea of "lived civics" as a frame for more effective civic learning by explicitly addressing the interests and experiences of young people through the context of best practices in teaching civics. The article offers ideas on reframing civics content and instruction, and includes a review of contemporary civics literature, principles of lived civics, and reflections for educators to consider.

This study of civic learning in California school districts draws upon LCAPs and district mission statements to assess the degree to which districts are focused on and devoting resources to civic priorities. It provides several key findings based upon the data, and makes recommendations for supporting the SSCE and moving forward with a systemic commitment to, and investment in, civic learning.

This report, published in 2017, adds several complementary streams of research and practice to the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning. Ideas for enhancing civic education with news media literacy education, action civics, social and emotional learning, and school climate reform are included, as well as two case studies of states improving their civic learning plans.
Revitalizing K-12 Civic Learning In California: A Blueprint For Action (PDF)
This report, by the California Task Force on K-12 Civic Learning, was published in August 2014 as a partnership between former SSPI Tom Torlakson and Supreme Court Chief Justice Tani G. Cantil-Sakauye. The report offers system-wide recommendations to improve civic learning, including revising the HSS Content Standards and Framework and improving professional learning opportunities.

Published in 2014 by the Education Commission of States, this guidebook is a resource for teachers, administrators, policymakers, and others who want to put the Six Proven Practices in place but are not sure where to begin. The document highlights research and provides practical suggestions for implementing each practice.

Council is a sharing method, focused on empathy and active listening. It can be effective especially when working on topics such as personal development and strengthening of group dynamics.

This 2013 conference, funded by the Bechtel Foundation, brought together several experts on youth civic development and citizenship education in order to promote civic development and participation for youth from all backgrounds. The report outlines recommendations regarding improving citizenship education nationwide.

General, Comprehensive Resources

These organizations offer a variety of programs to support civic learning at all levels and for a variety of audiences.

Webinars, podcasts, and curriculum to support civic engagement from a global perspective.

Series of civics programs, community partnership opportunities, lesson resources, and other publications.

Extensive array of lesson resources including Bill of Rights in Action, Civics On Call, civic scenarios and simulations, and more.

Wide variety of resources for educators , school leaders, students and families that address racism, anti-semitism, and prejudice throughout history. Key resources include curriculum, strategies, webinars, Teaching with Current Events , the Choosing to Participate Toolkit , and Fostering Civil Discourse: How do We Talk about Issues that Matter .

Classroom activities and lessons, voter registration information, teacher training and resources, school and district resources, and research on civic education.

Program geared towards helping civics educators implement comprehensive civics education programs. Includes lesson plans, an E-Congress, mock elections, research, current events discussion support, and teacher training.

Searchable Resource Databases

These sites include searchable resource databases that provide information for educators, administrators, families, and students.

Database of resources focused on career and technical education lessons. Includes primary sources, lesson plans, strategies, and resources to support Project Based Learning.

Articles, reports, lesson plans and other resources that support civic engagement.

Searchable database of resources dedicated to civic engagement. Search by content or by standard, or play games, check out curriculum units, or plan a civics scope and sequence. They also offer resources to support distance learning.

The National Endowment for the Humanities provides this resource that contains lesson plans, curricula, and full teacher's guides for grades K-12. Search by topic and grade level. Resources are HSS-focused, but also include literature, language arts, arts and culture.

Database focused on lessons for civics, government, and law-related education for K-12 students. Includes simulations, discussions, mock trials, case studies, and other research-based materials. Filter lessons by grade level, lesson topic, strategy, or standard.

Resources Targeted by Grade Level or Function

Below are recommended resources organized by grade level (kindergarten through grade eight [K-8], and grades nine through twelve [9-12]). Please keep in mind that many resources can span multiple grade levels based on individual student needs, and educators should review and adapt all resources before implementing them.

Resources for Kindergarten through Grade Eight

Even the youngest students can become civically engaged! The following resources can help K-8 students get excited about civics.

Apprentice-level learning adventures geared at teaching kids ages four through eight about the U.S. government.

One-day workshops for students and advisors to focus on teamwork and building ideas for effective student governance.

Elementary schools are encouraged to apply for Civic Learning Awards and participate in the Judges in the Classroom Program. Lesson resources are also available for elementary students on the Digital Chalkboard.

A wide range of short articles on various topics in world history, American history, and government. Also includes a series of biographies on dozens of influential individuals.

Field trips designed for kindergarten through grade two (K-2) students focusing on fundamental principles of democracy.

Students can choose from a variety of games ranging in length from 0-30+ minutes on topics such as voting, arguing Supreme Court cases, and international diplomacy.

Interdisciplinary lesson resources that use literacy and mock trials to teach key principles of civics. Some lessons are created for students in grades four and five.

Series of lessons that teach about the electoral process and encourage citizenship in the classroom, school, home and community.
Rendell Center for Civics and Civic Engagement Literature-Based Mock Trials
Lesson plans focused on teaching the skills of civil discourse when discussing social justice issues, designed for a K-2 audience.

Resources for Grades Nine through Twelve

These resources are appropriate for students primarily in high school, although many can be adapted for grades 6-8.

Information about SOS initiatives to educate and engage young Californian's in the democratic process, including programs to pre-register to vote at age 16, High School Voter Education Weeks, California Student Mock Elections, and guidance for school administrators and teachers.

An online resource for studying democracy, designed for use by teachers, professors, and college and secondary students. Includes information on essential principles of democracy, a study guide for democracy, and comparative information on the study of freedom internationally.

Curriculum for high school teachers, including an action project, research and blogging, democracy in action, and infographics.

The Institute for Local Government's PYLG units focus on roles, responsibilities, and processes of local government.

Funded by the S.D. Bechtel, Jr. Foundation, the Action Civics initiative worked to civic awareness and engagement in 14 middle and high schools in the Sacramento region. This site includes resources to support professional development provided through the program and other tools to support civic learning. The initiative also developed resources for middle school students.

High school law course materials, Supreme Court of the United States in the Classroom program, and rule of law education curriculum.

Collection of documents that focus on specific issues in American civic history. Each collection has an introduction that provides necessary context and three sets of study questions. Each of the documents is annotated with footnotes that provide biographical information on document authors and identify obscure words, events, or individuals.

Supporting the Six Proven Practices for Effective Civic Learning

This page contains some of the strongest resources for incorporating each of the Six Proven Practices of Effective Civic Learning.

The California Courts recognize and celebrate public schools' efforts to engage students in civic learning through their annual Civic Learning Awards . Co-sponsored by Chief Justice Cantil-Sakauye. Seventy-five schools earned awards in 2020. Schools seeking to earn an award may also refer to this list of resources as they set up or enhance their civic learning programs.

Instruction in Government, History, Law, Democracy

Schools can offer courses on civics, government, history, and law, in an effort to encourage better-informed citizens. The below resources include vetted, easy-to-implement curricula to support these courses.

Current Events and Controversial Issues

Effective classroom discussions of current events and controversial issues can increase student interest in government. The below resources provide a variety of options for facilitating these types of engaging discussions.

Service-Learning

Service-learning opportunities provide ways for students and the community to come together to develop habits of community engagement. These resources can help educators facilitate projects, while also tying them back to the classroom.

Extracurricular Activities

Student-led volunteer projects that occur outside of the classroom can also teach skills in collaboration and civic participation. The below organizations provide resources and ongoing support for students, teachers, administrators, and families.

Student Participation in School Governance

Giving students a voice can also help increase understanding and appreciation of the intricacies of the democratic process as it also teaches key behaviors of citizenship. These organizations provide guidance and support for schools implementing a structure for student voice in school governance.

Simulations

Simulations allow students to simulate adult civic roles and offer a unique, deep civic learning experience. Some of these programs use role-playing games to simulate government, helping students participate in processes such as national elections.

Resources for Students

The below resources are especially helpful for students looking to become more civically engaged.

Student Institutes and Conferences

While not officially part of the Six Proven Practices, participation in institutes and conferences offer additional chances for students to engage first-hand in a way that supports overall civic engagement.

Programs to Support Student Engagement

The below organizations can help support students who seek to enhance civic learning and engagement on school campuses. In light of COVID-19, many of these organizations are providing resources to support civic engagement virtually.

Miscellaneous Tips, Skills, and Ideas

These resources can help students as they carry out their civic engagement projects. Resources include advice on writing professional emails, ideas for community service projects, and helpful checklists to guide projects from start to finish.

This list will grow over time. Have you come across any other helpful guides or tools directed specifically towards helping students carry out the day-to-day work of civic engagement projects? Please share them with the CDE at ssce@cde.ca.gov.

Reminders, guidelines, and samples to help students write a variety of professional emails.

Professional Learning Opportunities for Educators

The 2016 HSS Framework incorporates critical shifts for educators. These shifts include a focus on inquiry-based instruction through innovative teaching and learning practices. The HSS Framework guides educators as they design, implement, and maintain a coherent course of study to teach content; develop inquiry-based critical thinking skills; improve reading comprehension and expository writing ability; and promote an engaged and knowledgeable citizenry in history and the related social sciences.

The Budget Act of 2017 included an allocation of funds for high-quality professional learning and resources for HSS educators and administrators to implement the new framework. Through funding from the CDE, the Sacramento County Office of Education has developed a system of statewide and regional communities of practice to provide meaningful and targeted support in HSS for classroom teachers, paraprofessionals, and site administrators. Representing the four instructional shifts described in the HSS Framework, the Content, Literacy, Inquiry, and Citizenship (CLIC) Project develops and facilitates the many elements integral for successful implementation of the HSS Framework. As part of their work, the CLIC Project hosts a YouTube channel that contains videos to support educators and administrators as they implement the HSS Framework, including videos on fostering student advocacy and classroom approaches to civic learning .

Below is a list of additional professional learning institutes, courses, and other opportunities to support educators as they implement civic learning programs.

External Websites Dedicated to the State Seal of Civic Engagement

The websites listed below have been developed by California organizations that are supporting LEAs to implement the SSCE. These sites are being updated as new resources become available.

California History-Social Science Project Sites

Each of the below CHSSP sites has a variety of resources to support professional learning in civics.

Institutes

Coaching, Seminars, Training Videos, Toolkits

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President Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said, "We cannot always build a future for our youth, but we can always build our youth for the future." At the California Department of Education (CDE), we work to help California educators build our youth to be successful and engaged citizens.

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Very good online game about decision making using events from Washington's presidency. (Sadly, doesn't always work great on Chrome)

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Excellent online games for US history- "Serious history, Serious games"

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Play Mission Us

1848 the antebellum era

Flight to Freedom

Teach mission us

Mission US includes extensive teaching materials for each mission. The educator guides feature:

What people are saying about Mission US

About mission us

Mission US is an award-winning educational media project that immerses young people in transformational moments from U.S. history.

Developed for use by middle school students in the classroom and beyond, Mission US is a deeply-researched, award-winning educational media project with proven positive impact on history learning. To date, more than three million registered users across the country have played and learned from Mission US.

Mission US is committed to teaching complicated and sensitive topics in American history. We recommend that teachers/parents preview game content to make sure it is appropriate for their students/children.

Go to about

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Play Mission Us 1848 the antebellum era Teach mission us Mission US includes extensive teaching materials for each mission. The educator guides feature: What people are saying about Mission US About mission us Mission US is an award-winning educational media project that immerses young people in transformational moments from U.S.

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Visible Thinking Routines
https://pz.harvard.edu/thinking-routines

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Engaging students in meaningful civic learning- online games and lesson plans

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In this new Private i History Detectives unit, Elementary students analyze primary sources to discover how Constitutional Amendments attempted to address slavery's wrongs, how the courts challenged unfair laws, and how individuals and groups fought for civil rights.

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In this new Private i History Detectives unit, Elementary students analyze primary sources to discover how Constitutional Amendments attempted to address slavery's wrongs, how the courts challenged unfair laws, and how individuals and groups fought for civil rights.

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Can be used with videos, primary sources, discussions etc.
W= What do you still wonder about?
A= What do you appreciate?
N=What did you notice?
T= What is your takeaway?
S= What surprised you?

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https://www.slidescarnival.com/

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Here is the blog I used this spring to communicate with my students. I also had students house their work on their own blogs. I am including a link to a student's blog. He did very poorly when we were in person, but was my best blogger in all of my classes when we went online!

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Sorry, you have been blocked from accessing Edublogs. If you feel this was done in error please contact support@edublogs.org and include the information shown below.
Public IP: 138.197.16.41
Ray ID: 7e6c22d62afe4321

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Political Campaign Commercials- 1952-present
http://www.livingroomcandidate.org/

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C-Span Classroom Deliberations- Current Events

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C-Span Classroom Deliberations- Current Events

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http://c-spanclassroomdeliberations.org/

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Farm Friday, Illusions, student spotlight, history jokes, history memes

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I created this lesson following the election. I have been so moved and amazed by what my students have created. It gives me great hope. Could be used in middle or high school

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Copy of How do we move our nation forward

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Women's Right to Vote 100 Year Anniversary- Commemorative Stamp/Podcast Project

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Women's Right to Vote 100 Year Anniversary- Commemorative Stamp/Podcast Project

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This is the first part of the project, if you are interested in the rest, please email me at ssalz@carlsbadusd.net

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[Template] Biography Research Template: Women's Right to Vote 100 Yr. Anniversary Commemorative Stamp/Podcast Project

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Infographic for Online Teaching

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Forms Daily Warm-up & Check-in Remote Learning Check-in Getting to Know You Survey (read more here!) Peer Project Evaluation Course Evaluation Sign-in Sheet (for Open House or parent nights) Behavior Log (View) Instant Feedback Study Guide Choose Your Own Adventure Google Forms Resources: Getting Started with Google Forms Getting to Know You Survey Daily Exit Tickets...

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In this lesson, you'll use collaborative writing to create an interactive story called an If-Then Adventure using Google Docs and Google Slides.

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Educators around the world are entering digital lesson design with varying experiences and expertise. Our HyperDocs Online Academy is your source for learning about designing and delivering the engagement-driving digital lessons we call HyperDocs. Our course instruction method is what we call 'just in time teaching' so that you can take on new learning when you are ready, and explore the Academy at your own pace.

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Time to go shopping for HyperDocs! Look closely at design elements, different packaging options, engagement strategies, and more. Imagine the potential and possibility of digital lesson design with HyperDocs!

Click on the image below to access HyperDocs in each content area.

Did we miss a subject area or topic that you want? Is there a problem with any of the HyperDocs linked here? Leave a comment here and let us know!

Comments (29)

Please add a HyperDoc example for 45 minutes lesso

Please add a HyperDoc example for 45 minutes lesson (world language)

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Time to go shopping for HyperDocs! Look closely at design elements, different packaging options, engagement strategies, and more. Imagine the potential and possibility of digital lesson design with HyperDocs! Click on the image below to access HyperDocs in each content area. Did we miss a subject area or topic that you want?

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G Suite

This post is written by Kris Szajner, a tech integration specialist and former kindergarten teacher Prior Lake, Minnesota. You can follow him on Twitter @kszajner and check out his website kszajner.com.

Have you heard of Jamboard? It creates whiteboards that are a lot like slides. Looking for more collaborative activities to complete during distance learning? Look no further!

This free Google tool isn't just about expensive interactive displays.
Don't I need an expensive interactive display board to use it?
Nope! You can use the app for free on any device! It works with Google Drive and allows you to present your whiteboard to people viewing remotely. Which makes it a great online whiteboard option for distance learning.

What is Jamboard?

With Jamboard you can:

Add sticky notes, drawings, images, text and more.

Search Google and insert images or webpages.

Move images, texts, notes and drawings around on the screen easily.

Drag and resize text and images with your fingers.

Share your "jams" with others and let them collaborate.

Getting started with Jamboard

The Google Teacher Cente r has some great resources for educators looking to get started using Jamboard in your classroom.

Resources include:

a video library or tutorials

tips and trick from teachers

PDF guides

lesson plans and more

10 Jamboard Templates for Distance Learning

Pro Tip - Be sure students are not signed into Google and you have the permissions set to "anyone with the link is an Editor". This will ensure that each student is anonymous!

The Do More with Google Jamboard Online Course!

This course will introduce you to Jamboard features you might not know. It will give you dozens of ideas for using it in the classroom.

Plus, it provides you with:
- A collection of more than 100 templates.
- 40 activity ideas you can use immediately
- Tutorial slide s to use as a quick visual review.
- I nteractive infographics you can give your students
- Video playlists, posts, and extra resources.

Pro tip: Be sure students zoom into the canvas. This will make writing or drawing WAY easier!

Pro tip: Be sure students zoom into the canvas. This will make writing or drawing WAY easier!

For notifications of new Ditch That Textbook content and helpful links:

Are you looking for quality, meaningful professional learning that both equips and inspires teachers?

Matt provides in-person and virtual keynotes, workshops and breakout sessions that equip, inspire and encourage teachers to create change in their classrooms. Teachers leave with loads of resources. They participate. They laugh. They see tech use and teaching in a new light. Click the link below to contact us and learn how you can bring Matt to your school or district!

FREE teaching ideas and templates in your inbox every week!

Subscribe to Ditch That Textbook

©2023 Ditch That Textbook by Matt Miller.

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10 Jamboard templates for distance learning

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This post has 10 engaging ideas for using Jamboard in your class that will get your students working together, even though they may not be face to face.

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Please enter your email to reset your password. You will receive letter with the password reset link.

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Try the new Snapchat for Web on your computer to chat, call friends, use Lenses, and more