Significant shifts are reshaping social studies instruction, and they’re here to stay. Have you encountered the transformative framework known as the College, Career, and Civic Life (C3) Framework for Social Studies? You’re likely familiar with its impact, even if you don’t recognize the formal name. The C3 Framework serves as a guiding light, ushering in dynamic changes in how we approach social studies education.
Unleashing Inquiry: The Role of Social Studies Frameworks
These shifts in social studies instruction encompass the concept of inquiry, emphasizing skill application through social studies-centered content. They promote the integration and expansion of literacy, mainly through civic media, within the social studies disciplines, culminating in actionable insights. The C3 Framework fosters a culture where students are encouraged to actively inquire about their social studies learning. It challenges them to seek credible evidence to address these inquiries and actively share their findings with others.
Take a moment to reflect on your journey with social studies instruction. Can you recall witnessing these transformative shifts in your classroom? Did your learning environment align with the approaches outlined above? Fortunately, social studies instruction in Kent County is moving in this direction.
Empowering Students Through Civic Programs
Building on a legacy of success, Kent ISD has a long-standing collaboration with the Michigan Center for Civic Education (MCCE) to host the West Michigan Regional We The People Showcase and Competition Event. This event currently serves as a platform for students in local high schools to delve deeply into the United States Constitution, current events, case law, and more. It culminates in a simulated congressional hearing where students demonstrate their knowledge and apply it to contemporary issues, fostering critical thinking and civic awareness. After competing in West Michigan, students advance to the State level, and the state champion may represent Michigan at the National Finals.
East Kentwood High School’s “We the People” team recently secured the state championship at Michigan State University, earning them a ticket to represent Michigan in the national competition in Washington, D.C., this spring. Their victory reflects academic excellence and embodies the spirit of civic engagement and scholarship. Through programs like “We the People,” students are empowered to delve deep into constitutional principles and engage in meaningful civic discourse. Their journey is a testament to the transformative power of civic education in shaping informed and active citizens.
Another program in Kent County, in partnership with MCCE, is the Mock Trial. In Mock Trial, students transform themselves into attorneys and witnesses. MCCE provides either a civil or criminal case. Students learn more about the justice system by analyzing complex case facts and how to be both the Plaintiff or Prosecution and the Defense. Students work collaboratively to develop theme and theory, speaking and presentation skills, character development, rules of evidence, confidence, and so much more.
Forest Hills Northern High School students recently participated in a Mock Trial program at the 63rd District Court, led by their Project NEXT class. Over eight weeks, they honed public speaking, research, and critical analysis skills. This experience deepened their understanding of legal principles. It fostered valuable life skills, empowering them to become informed, active citizens capable of effecting meaningful change. Additionally, Forest Hills Eastern represented Michigan at the National High School Mock Trial Championship last year in Little Rock, Arkansas, after winning the MCCE State Championship. Watch their compelling journey unfold in the video linked below, and join us in championing civic education initiatives in our schools.
Fostering Civic Learning: Impact of Social Studies Programs
These programs are promising to reinforce the use of the significant shifts in social studies instruction. Data suggests these programs uniquely advance civic learning, civic efficacy, civic belonging, and civic agency, both in the immediate and long term. Students share that these courses tend “not to feel like school but rather encourage me to be curious, want to research, and want to explore complex questions.” These programs, plus others offered by MCCE, advance inquiry, student voice, and opportunities for all students to succeed. Research demonstrates how these programs uniquely advance civic and public literacy and motivate a life-long interest in civic learning. Students learn about critical social studies content and then apply it to their everyday lives, forming their opinions with classmates and being guided by their teachers.
Fostering Lifelong Citizenship: The Impact of Civic Education
As we conclude our exploration of social studies instruction in Kent County, it’s evident that significant shifts are underway, guided by frameworks like the C3 Framework and collaborative efforts with organizations like the Michigan Center for Civic Education (MCCE). Through programs like We the People and Mock Trial, students delve into constitutional principles and legal proceedings while honing critical skills for active civic engagement. These initiatives empower students to navigate complex societal issues, fostering a sense of civic belonging and efficacy beyond the classroom. Let’s embrace these innovative approaches to cultivate informed, active citizens who will shape our communities. For more information or to adopt similar teaching styles, contact Mark Raffler at Kent ISD. Let’s pave the way for a future rooted in civic education and engagement.
#KentISDpd #WeLeadLearning #CivicEducation #SocialStudiesShift #CivicLearning #KentCountyEducation #MCCE
This blog post was written by Mark Raffler, Social Studies Consultant for Kent ISD and Ellen Zwarensteyn, Executive Director, Michigan Center for Civic Education and edited by Amanda Walma, T/L Marketing and Communications Specialist for Kent ISD.
Citations:
Brett Atwood. “Taking the ‘American Dream’ to court.” School News Network, December 4, 2023.
Melissa Frick. “West Michigan high school wins ‘We the People’ state championship.” MLive, January 25, 2023.
ABC News. “Judge Who Defied Segregationists Honored as Rock Hero.” ABC News, 2 Mar. 2023