Standards
In Rhode Island schools, civics and social studies curriculum conforms to Grade Span Expectations (GSE’s). Click here to see GSE Strands (i.e. topics) for all grades. You can also view K-4, 5-8, and 9-12 Grade Span Specific Documents.
Note: Public speaking is integrated into the standards for many different subjects.
Civics & Social Studies
Resources and Field Trip Ideas
Social studies lessons for all ages
Source: RI Department of Education
Standards: Assorted
Diversity Activities
Activities to help both youth and adults foster and appreciate diversity
Source: Ohio State University
Standards: CCELA 6-2, 6-3, 6-5, 6-10
Just In Time: Equity Dialogues for Youth
Just In Time: Supplemental Resources
Lessons to engage youth in conversations about social justice
Source: National 4-H Council
Standards: G2, G3, HP4, HP5
Voices of Social Justice: National Portrait Gallery
Learn about social justice through some of our Greatest Americans in the National Portrait Gallery. Portraits are combined with history and discussion questions.
Source: Smithsonian Institute
Standards: Various
Geography of the United States
Explore the States with photos, history and fast facts.
Source: National Geographic Kids
Standards: Various for ages 8-12
Smithsonian Learning Labs
Hundreds of educational activities in social studies, language arts, science and arts with images, audio, video and text pieces. You can use the search to look for lesson plans in to match what you are studying.
Source: Smithsonian Institute
Standards: Various
Smithsonian Junior Tribune
Over 100 lessons geared towards younger youth to spark questions and discussions. Lessons combine a video, text and a quiz.
Source: Smithsonian
Standards: Grade K-4
Smithsonian Tween Tribune
Over 100 lessons geared towards younger youth to spark questions and discussions. Lessons combine a video, text and a quiz.
Source: Smithsonian Institute
Standards: Grade 5-8
Smithsonian Teen Tribune
Over 130 free quick lessons ranging from “Take a virtual trip to the International space Station” to “Is is true Elephants Can’t Jump”. The lessons combine a small passage to read, videos and quizzes.
Source: Smithsonian Institute
Standards: Grade 9-12
Communication
Communications Curriculum
Learn strategies and theories behind effective communication
Source: National 4-H Council
Standards:
The Writer in You
Learn elements of writing, language and making a portfolio. Appropriate for Common Core 6th grade level assessments.
Source: Ohio State University
Standards: CCELA 6-2, 6-3, 6-5, 6-10
Communications Toolkit – Michigan State
Activities to help youth become more comfortable and practiced speakers
Source: Michigan State University
Standards: Anchor Standards 1, 2, 3 , 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
Speech Writing
Map out a speech before delivering it
Source: University of Nebraska Lincoln
Standards: Anchor Standards 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 9
Leadership & Team Building
Unlocking Your Leadership Potential
Examine and build on skills to become a good leader
Source: University of Florida
Standards:
Entrepreneurship Activity Guide
Introduction to what it takes to be successful in business
Source: National 4-H Council
Standards:
Community Service
365 4-H Community Service Ideas
Ideas to serve your community everyday.
Source: University of Nebraska Lincoln
Standards: