Investigating History

DESE envisions students in every Investigating History classroom engaged in asking and answering authentic, interesting questions that drive toward deeper, richer understanding of the past and the present.

Until now, Massachusetts history and social studies teachers have not had easy access to a comprehensive, authentic, inquiry-based curriculum that is fully aligned to the 2018 History/Social Science Framework. They've have had to spend valuable time pulling together materials from disparate sources.

To address this need, DESE has developed, in collaboration with teachers and history scholars, an accurate, culturally responsive, and inclusive curriculum. Investigating History is an open-source curriculum for grades three through seven, offered at no cost to schools, with opportunities for robust teacher support and professional development for adoption and implementation.

Investigating History units for grades five, six, and seven are now available! Register here to gain access to the curriculum.

If you have questions or would like more information about Investigating History and available ongoing support and professional development, please email InvestigatingHistory@mass.gov.

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Investigating History is coming to third and fourth grades! Applications are now open to pilot the curriculum in these grades during the 2024-25 school year in advance of its anticipated Summer 2025 release:

• Overview of the Pilot Opportunity
• Pilot Application
• Informational Webinar: Wednesday, April 10, 3:00–3:45
• Preview the Materials:
  • Grade 3: Unit Inquiry Maps , Sample Lessons
  • Grade 4: Unit Inquiry Maps , Sample Lessons

If you have questions about this pilot opportunity or about Investigating History, please email InvestigatingHistory@mass.gov .