TIP: Chicago Public Schools promotes "Together While Apart"

Wednesday, May 6, 2020 — Chicago Public Schools has launched an innovative remote social studies curriculum for all k-8 students in the district. The curriculum, Together When Apart, engages students in week-long social studies investigations that relate directly to their experience of the COVID-19 pandemic. Together When Apart is made available to all students online, with printed Spanish and English versions delivered to all students district-wide. Here is DAY ONE of the lessons.

A typical week of the curriculum prompts students to investigate the world around them, take action, and share their experiences. In the Community Action week, for example, students investigate how people all over the world are responding to the pandemic with actions that support and encourage others. They then create their own actions - which has led CPS students to paint their doorways, make masks for essential workers, and take other inspiring actions.

Chicago-based startup inquirED created the curriculum. CPS turned to the inquiry-based learning company because it could respond quickly to the changing circumstances of the COVID crisis and had a track record of creating engaging, relevant curriculum.

I have added the contacts below but would really appreciate if you contact me first, just so I can give them a heads up.

Heather Van Benthuysen
Director, Department of Social Science and Civic Engagement, Chicago Public Schools
[email protected]
P: (773) 553-6391 C: (773) 865-5595

Shanti Elangovan
Founder & CEO, inquirED
[email protected] | (312) 479 - 4317

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