Social Studies

K-12 Balanced Instructional Model

VUSD is committed to effective Social Science instruction that engages students through a variety of instructional strategies and promotes the development of the habits of informed and engaged citizens. Students use Content, Literacy and Inquiry to deepen their understanding of Social Science and develop their critical thinking skills. A balanced approach allows our students to make civic connections and apply these skills and knowledge to a rapidly changing world.

Tier-1 Embedded Practices

Students are recognized and valued in a safe environment through the implementation of essential routines and procedures
Students demonstrate learning in standards-based experiences that foster communication, collaboration, creativity, and critical thinking through researched-based instructional strategies and intentional engagement structures
Students develop and embrace a growth mindset through reflection and opportunities to show growth in a supportive learning environment
Students have multiple opportunities to read, write, listen, and speak in all content areas

	Grades TK-12
Critical Thinking	C.L.I.C. Referenced in Chapter 1 of CA framework Content Students understand connections between the past and the present. Students connect historical figures, events, themes or sources with the broader context of time and place. Students draw conclusions from a variety of primary and secondary sources. Literacy Students gather and analyze relevant grade-level historic and current sources that reflect a wide range of perspectives, and evaluate for credibility. Students construct arguments, explanations, and/or public presentations to communicate evidence-based findings to a wide array of appropriate audiences. Students critique the claims and conclusions of others, paying attention to credibility and relevance. Inquiry Students develop meaningful questions and plan inquiries addressing enduring issues in history, civics, economics, and society. Students question the world around them to build new knowledge, driving the inquiry process. Students explore the relationship between individuals and society and investigate important issues and events that are relevant to their lives Citizenship Students discuss solutions, select appropriate strategies, and take informed action on real-world problems. Students apply knowledge to real-world problems by actively promoting citizenship and participating in positive change.
Core Knowledge and Skills	Students apply knowledge proficiently in Social Science subjects, including history, civics, government, economics, geography and ethnic studies. Throughout K-12 education, these skills and strategies are developed through consistent instruction, practice and application. Instruction and instructional resources emphasize these elements, which include literacy skills, geography skills, economic decision making, civic mindedness, cross-cultural competence and information-processing skills.

Grades TK-12

Critical Thinking

C.L.I.C.

Referenced in Chapter 1 of CA framework

Content

Students understand connections between the past and the present.

Students connect historical figures, events, themes or sources with the broader context of time and place.

Students draw conclusions from a variety of primary and secondary sources.

Literacy

Students gather and analyze relevant grade-level historic and current sources that reflect a wide range of perspectives, and evaluate for credibility.

Students construct arguments, explanations, and/or public presentations to communicate evidence-based findings to a wide array of appropriate audiences.

Students critique the claims and conclusions of others, paying attention to credibility and relevance.

Inquiry

Students develop meaningful questions and plan inquiries addressing enduring issues in history, civics, economics, and society.

Students question the world around them to build new knowledge, driving the inquiry process.

Students explore the relationship between individuals and society and investigate important issues and events that are relevant to their lives

Citizenship

Students discuss solutions, select appropriate strategies, and take informed action on real-world problems.

Students apply knowledge to real-world problems by actively promoting citizenship and participating in positive change.

Core Knowledge and Skills

Students apply knowledge proficiently in Social Science subjects, including history, civics, government, economics, geography and ethnic studies. Throughout K-12 education, these skills and strategies are developed through consistent instruction, practice and application. Instruction and instructional resources emphasize these elements, which include literacy skills, geography skills, economic decision making, civic mindedness, cross-cultural competence and information-processing skills.

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