Parallel Curriculum Units for Social Studies, Grades 6-12
- Jeanne H. Purcell - Connecticut State Department of Education
- Jann H. Leppien - University of Great Falls
In Parallel Curriculum Units for Social Studies, Grades 6–12, experienced teachers contribute sample social studies units that demonstrate what high-quality curriculum looks like within a PCM framework. Covering history, geography, sociology, and interdisciplinary studies, these field-tested units each contain:
- Teacher explanations of the unit design
- Connections to concepts, skills, and standards
- Step-by-step directions for delivering the lessons and units
- Modification strategies and methods for assessment
Use these examples to design your own units and enhance your ability to provide challenging curriculum tailored to the abilities, interests, and learning preferences of each learner.
"There is a freshness to Purcell and Leppien's approach transforming the curriculum into a platform for active investigation of our rapidly changing world. Your learners become 21st-century social scientists as they engage in probing timely issues and problems."
"All teachers want to provide high-quality curriculum for their students, but this goal is often not easily accomplished. The four social studies units in this book provide a clear view of what high-quality curriculum based on the Parallel Curriculum Model should look like and how it should be implemented. The units include high-end achievement targets; highly engaging lessons; innovative instructional strategies; activities that stimulate high-level thinking; and pre-, formative, and summative assessments. After reading these units, teachers will have a clear understanding of what makes high-quality curriculum."
