Social Studies Pedagogy: Inquiry, Scaffolding, and Curriculum Frameworks

A set of vocabulary flashcards based on lecture notes detailing inquiry-based social studies instruction, scaffolding, curriculum standards, and pedagogical reflection.

Inquiry

A method of teaching and learning that makes use of authentic resources in the investigation of meaningful topics and problems.

Inquiry Process Steps

The four main parts of the inquiry process, consisting of: (1) emergence, (2) clarification, (3) examination, and (4) proposed solution.

Inquiry Resources

Authentic or real-world materials used by students during the investigation of inquiry topics.

Inquiry Questions

Questions that serve as a starting point for an inquiry, capitalizing on young children's interest in distinguishing real from make-believe, inviting student interest, and enabling multiple possible answers.

Scaffolds

Specific forms of support for new learning (such as graphic organizers, outlines, and reading guides) that allow students to grow as independent learners and are gradually removed as students develop autonomous knowledge.

Forms of Social Studies Inquiry

Inquiry modes commonly found in social studies, which include scientific, historical, and social inquiry, but exclude conceptual inquiry.

Inquiry-Supporting Curriculum Topic

A curriculum idea focused on conceptual understanding and open reasoning, such as examining the reasons for the three branches of American government rather than memorizing isolated facts.

Reflective Inquiry

An inquiry approach in a democracy that enables students to learn given ever-changing conditions related to that knowledge.

Case Studies

Educational tools that entail elements of successful teaching in local situations and enable exploration of how a teaching episode can be extended or improved.

Standards

Generalized and public representations of expectations for teaching and learning that are typically more general than curriculum.

Curriculums

Educational structures that detail the scope and sequence of subject matter that is to be taught.