Planning social studies lessons doesn’t have to be stressful! In this episode, I’m walking you through 5 key components every social studies lesson needs to keep students engaged and learning - without adding extra prep time.

This is a remix episode that includes a brand new lesson example on the Thirteen colonies!

Whether you’re teaching about the Thirteen Colonies, U.S. History, or any other topic, you’ll learn how to:

✅ Write clear and student-friendly learning objectives

✅ Start with an engaging hook or question

✅ Incorporate active learning and collaboration

✅ Use primary sources and real-world connections

✅ End with meaningful reflection and assessment

These strategies work for upper elementary social studies, including 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade — and you can easily adapt them for any unit.

Resources Mentioned:

Blog post

Course: Social Studies Simplified

Learning Intentions Posters

Thirteen Colonies Unit

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5 Social Studies Guided Notes

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Social Studies Guided Curriculum

Easy-to-follow lesson plans and activities for social studies - just print and teach! The complete bundles for Communities, Texas History, and U.S. History are available. Click the link to learn more!

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