Teacher Tools Related to Social Studies

List of tools

  • Big Ideas Principle

    The Big Idea principle is a way to bring order to the breadth of social studies content by organizing it around important concepts that are more specific than the ten Social Studies Standards and more specific than general social ideas such as Democracy or Community. Considerations for implementing the Big Idea Principle are included.

  • Concept Comparison

    The Concept Comparison Routine is a process in which students use a graphic called a Comparison Table to compare and contrast key concepts. The routine involves a set of instructional methods that can be taught in two class periods and then transferred to other topics or courses.

  • Experiential Learning Exposures

    Experiential learning involves doing something rather than reading or hearing about it. Exposure is an assignment that takes place outside the classroom. A student schedules and executes the exposure, reports the results, and reflects on the experience. Suggestions for implementing Experiential Learning: Exposures are included.

  • Graph Dissection

    Graph dissection is the process of taking apart or breaking down information found in graphs, charts, maps, and other educational graphics. Considerations are listed for implementing graph dissection in order to effectively meet the diverse learning needs of students.

  • Graphic Organizers

    Graphic Organizers, Mind Maps, and Concept Maps provide a pictorial or graphic way to organize information and thoughts for remembering, understanding, and writing.

  • Historical Perspective Timelines

    Historical Perspective is the concept of comprehending and feeling the passage of time. Timelines help students understand the passage of time by comparing the length of time passed with a time sequence with which they are familiar. Suggestions are included for implementing different types of Historical Perspective Timelines.

  • Multiple Intelligences

    Dr. Howard Gardner proposed the theory of multiple intelligences in 1983 to account for a broader range of human potential in children and adults. The different types of intelligences are listed, and suggestions are identified for implementing them to meet the diverse learning needs of students.

  • Textbook Analysis

    Textbook analysis is the systematic analysis of the text materials including the structure, the focus, and special learning assists. Strategies for implementing textbook analysis are explained.

  • Unit Organizer Routine

    A Unit Organizer is a device to introduce and fame a “chunk of content” called a unit. The basic elements of the Unit Organizer are identified, and suggestions are provided for implementing the routine.

Developed by: 
John Seevers.