Issue link: http://educator.cta.org/i/912628
Instructional Materials for History and Social Sciences Approved T H E S T A T E B O A R D O F E D U C A T I O N ( S B E ) has approved instructional materials for teaching California's groundbreaking History–Social Science Framework in grades K-8. Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson says the materials will give students a broader, deeper and more accurate understanding of history and the social sciences, provide them with current research, and equip them with the critical thinking and research skills to make up their own minds about controversial issues. " They update the teaching and learning of history and social science and convey important new information about the challenges and contributions made by individuals and ethnic groups, members of the LGBT communities, and people with disabilities," Torlakson says. The new materials follow guidelines established by the FAIR Education Act, which requires including contributions of various groups in the history of California and the United States, such as Native Americans, African Americans, Mexican-Americans, Asian Americans, Pacific Islanders, European Americans, lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender Americans, persons with disabilities, and others. The materials also include a focus on civic engagement, which encourages and prepares students to be informed and involved in their local communities. All of the materials will be on display at January State Council and at CTA's Good Teaching Conference South for educators to review. More information is at cde.ca.gov/be/ag/ag/yr17/ documents/nov17item18.doc. 12 cta.org In the Know N E W S & N O T E S