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The primary purpose of a history and social science education is to prepare students with the knowledge, skills, and dispositions to become thoughtful and active participants in a democratic society and a complex world.
Our history, social science, and civics offerings include…
Standards and Instructional Guidance
2018 History and Social Science Framework
Vertical Progression of the Standards for History and Social Science Practice, by grade span
Supplement to the 2018 Massachusetts History and Social Science Framework
Personal Financial Literacy in the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks
Civics Project Guidebook (downloadable Word version )
Planning Through an Inclusive, Critical, and Responsive Lens: Quick Reference Guide and Planning Questions
Example: Grade 3, Topic 5: The Puritans, the Massachusetts Bay Colony, Native Peoples, and Africans
Example: Grade 6, Topic 4: Sub-Saharan Africa
Example: High School US History I, Topic 6: Rebuilding the United States: Industry and Immigration
Curriculum and Assessment
K-12 Curriculum Materials Guide (Word version )
Investigating History
At a Glance: Personal Financial Literacy
Grade 8 Civics MCAS
Professional Learning
History/Social Science Leaders Network
Civics Pathways
Certified Investigating History PD Providers
Student-Led Civics Projects
Civics Resources Homepage
Civics Project Artifact Library
Civics Project Guidebook
Civics Projects Quick Reference Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
Race, Racism, and Culturally Responsive Teaching in History and Social Science
Genocide Education
Civics Projects Reporting Requirements
Events for Students
Student Government Day — April 4, 2025
Civics Project Showcases — May/June 2025
Research
Investigating History Implementation Interim Report (Spring 2024)
The State of Civic Education in MA (2021)
Last Updated: July 26, 2024
Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education 135 Santilli Highway, Everett, MA 02149
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Disclaimer: A reference in this website to any specific commercial products, processes, or services, or the use of any trade, firm, or corporation name is for the information and convenience of the public and does not constitute endorsement or recommendation by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.