Section outline

  • Welcome!

    These modules represent a few high impact instructional strategies for the social studies classroom.   While there are numerous teaching strategies for effective social studies instruction, the research on high-impact instruction in social studies (in terms of a positive impact on student learning) focuses primarily in two areas: historical thinking, and civic knowledge and skills for citizenship. History education researchers tend to focus on how students analyze multiple historical documents and develop historical arguments, while civic education researchers focus on students’ evaluating information about public issues from multiple sources and viewpoints and develop reasoned judgments (Barton, K.C. & Avery, P.G., 2016, p. 1002). In addition to instructional strategies, each module provides examples that can be used in the classroom, as well as resources for further learning.

    These modules will equip educators with the skills and strategies to implement high impact teaching strategies and effective social studies practices. The modules are self-contained, meaning there is flexibility to review the modules individually at your leisure. 

    If you have questions or feedback regarding the course or modules feel free to contact Stephanie Hartman at hartman_s@cde.state.co.us


    • High Impact Instructional Strategies in the Social Studies File

      This grid provides educators with a crosswalk between instructional strategies and skills.  In addition, each strategy is hyperlinked to provide educators with an explanation and "how to" for implementing the strategy.

      As you review the grid, consider the following: 

      1. What strategies are you already using in your classroom? 
      2. What strategies would you like to learn more about?