Middle school students need meaningful opportunities to explore the world around them by being actively involved in every step of the learning process. An effective social studies curriculum challenges students to think critically about their place in the world and provides for active discussion and exploration of the content through inquiry-based activities. This change to the classroom dynamic holds students accountable for their own learning and equips them with the skills to collaborate with others, both of which are important to their future success. This book- Shares the six components of a student-centered classroom- Connects to best practices in middle level education- Models dozens of classroom activities and assessments