Extending the Ground of Public Confidence
Teaching Civil Liberties in K-16 Social Studies Education
In today's world, students must learn to analyze evolving issues, discern media credibility, and navigate competitive, biased information sources. They need the knowledge, skills, and attitudes to act as responsible citizens who hold institutions accountable for addressing and safeguarding civil liberties. This book serves as a practical resource for teaching civil liberties in K-12 social studies and teacher education, grounded in current scholarship. It features chapter-length discussions on various topics, starting with historical perspectives and transitioning to modern contexts. Key issues include freedom of speech and religion, power dynamics, property rights, personal security and privacy, assembly and expression, and voting rights in the U.S. Each chapter includes inquiry-based learning activities aligned with the National Council for the Social Studies (NCSS) College, Career, and Civic Life (C3) Inquiry Arc (2013). Students engage in developing questions, planning investigations, applying disciplinary concepts, gathering and evaluating evidence, and collaborating to communicate conclusions and take informed action. The lesson ideas are designed to engage learners of all ages and grade levels, fostering informed actions that uphold and protect civil liberties.