C3 Framework Update from Maryland—I was pleased to attend a presentation of College, Career, and Civic Life (C3) Framework for State Social Studies Standards by Marcie Taylor Thoma, Social Studies Specialists for Maryland Department of Education, to the Maryland Board of Education. A DOE colleague presented a summary of the document and then Marcie went into a wonderful description of each of the four Dimensions:
- Developing Questions and Planning Investigations
- Applying disciplinary concepts and tools;
- Evaluating sources and using evidence;
- Communicating conclusions and taking informed action
Marcie explained how the Framework aligned with Maryland’s College and Career Ready Standards and Common Core—and that C3 requires a different way of teaching social studies that is designed to engage students in their own learning.
The Board members asked great questions and seemed to really understand that C3 is not the same ol’ social studies—the student member of the Board really focused on the notion that students could choose their own question and fashion their own solution to address the challenge identified.
This is the first hearing for C3 Framework that will be aligned to the Code of Maryland Regulations in from 30 – 60 days.
A good day for C3, Maryland, and Marcie Taylor Thoma!