Concept-Based Instruction

What are concepts and why are they important in social studies?

Concepts are the overarching ideas or enduring understandings that are threaded through the K–12 social studies standards. Power, regulation, distribution and innovation are examples of concepts.

Explicitly focusing instruction on concepts emphasizes big ideas that are universal. Deep thinking about concepts enables students to transfer their learning to multiple situations. Students are able to see connections within and across disciplines when they engage directly with concepts.

Links to Learn More

• Concept Formation (Democracy)
• Concept Formation (World History)

Lists of Concepts

• Social Studies Concepts: PDF | Word
• Concepts in the MN Social Studies Standards:
  • K-5
  • 6-8

Tools for Students

• Concept Map 1
• Concept Map 2
• Concept_Development_Worksheet
  • Permission from Free Spirit Publishing

Models of Best Practice

• Concept-Based Teaching and Learning Videos (MNHS)
• Teaching Complex Concepts Video (The Teaching Channel)
• Book: Transitioning to Concept-based Curriculum and Instruction: How to Bring Content and Process Together by H. Lynn Erickson and Lois A. Lanning (2014)