Indigenous and Rural Perspectives Civil Discourse Curriculum
For Grades: 6–8
Lesson Modules
Indigenous and rural communities are often underrepresented in curriculum, making it difficult for students to see themselves reflected in what they learn. Educators in these communities often lack access to high-quality resources that honor their students' identities and allow them to build civic knowledge, skills, and dispositions.
All classrooms can benefit from elevating perspectives from rural and Indigenous communities.
The Center has built a curriculum for middle school educators and students, particularly those in rural and Indigenous communities, to practice skills of civil discourse. The materials comprise three modules that include lesson plans, resources, and support for authentic assessment and reflection. To see the curriculum in action, watch the videos to the right.
How Were These Lessons Made?
These modules were made with teachers after a number of focus groups identified areas in need of resources. The Center piloted the modules with teachers in rural and Indigenous communities, and included student perspectives and expert insight. Finally, over 20 educators from every corner of the country came together in Carson City, Nevada to test and practice these tools for civil discourse.
Teachers & Students Speak
I felt like this module really gave students two different perspectives to consider that they have never been presented with before.
—Participating Teacher
This unit was more interesting than the normal social studies lessons we have had in previous years.
—Participating Student
