The Social Studies K-12 Learning Standards, established on September 17, 2019, outline the Essential Academic Learning Requirements (EALRs) and Grade Level Expectations (GLEs) for students. These standards define what students should understand and be capable of doing across core social studies disciplines: civics, economics, geography, history, and essential social studies skills.
Equipping students with robust inquiry skills and a strong knowledge base in geography, civics, economics, and history is fundamental to fostering confident and engaged global citizens. The primary aim of these Learning Standards is to serve as a guide for educators and local districts in designing effective and comprehensive social studies programs, ensuring well-rounded k-12 learning experiences.
Learning Standards Across Grade Bands
| Standards | Grades Covered |
|---|---|
| Standards | Grades K–5 |
| Standards | Grades 6–8 |
| Standards | Grades 9–12 |
Scope & Sequence in K-12 Social Studies
The updated Scope and Sequence for social studies integrates references to the OSPI-Developed Assessments, also known as CBAs. While these assessments are currently undergoing updates, it’s important to note that they are still aligned with the previous version of the standards document.
For a detailed overview, refer to OSPI’s Recommended Scope and Sequence for Social Studies grades K–12. This resource provides a structured approach to implementing k-12 learning standards in social studies.
Social Studies Graduation Requirements for K-12 Completion
State graduation requirements (WAC 180-51-067, WAC 180-51-068, and WAC 180-51-210) mandate the completion of three social studies credits for graduation. This includes specific credit allocations in key areas:
- One (1) credit in US History, providing essential knowledge of the nation’s past.
- One-half (0.5) credit in Contemporary World History, Geography and Problems, often referred to as Contemporary World Problems (CWP), focusing on current global issues.
- One-half (0.5) credit in Civics, emphasizing the importance of civic engagement and understanding governmental systems.
- One (1) credit as a social studies elective, allowing for deeper exploration in areas of interest within the social studies field.
A recent adjustment by the State Board of Education modified the CWP credit requirement from one full credit to a half credit, and correspondingly increased the social studies elective from a half to a full credit. This change, effective from November 2019, is designed to offer districts greater flexibility in meeting social studies requirements, particularly the civics component. It is advisable that half of the social studies elective credit remain focused on world history to maintain alignment with learning standards. Districts have the option to retain CWP as a one-credit course if they choose.
For more comprehensive information, please visit the Graduation Requirements page, a valuable resource for understanding k-12 learning pathways and academic expectations.
