Civics Action Project
A little about CAP.CAP is a free project-based learning program for civics and government. Think of it as a culmination of students’ social studies education, a chance for them to apply what they have learned to the real world and impact an issue that matters to them.
From the CAP curriculum, you will first teach three lessons that are tied to government/civics content. These lessons provide content that students will need to start their own CAP projects. Once students start working on their own CAP issues, you will teach two more lessons that focus on policy analysis. CAP provides a bundle of additional lessons for you to choose from, based on the needs and interests of your students. Students could select issues related to school, community, or even national or global issues. CAP students identify an issue or problem that matters to them, connect it to public policy, then take “civic actions” to try to impact their selected issue/problem. It is up to you, the teacher, if you want to limit the scale of the issues they choose. In any case, it is key that you require students to make the connection to public policy if you are integrating CAP into your government course. |
CAP Student Outcomes:
CAP is designed to support research-based practices in civic education. Student outcomes include:
Increased knowledge about government class content, democratic ideals, and the role of citizens in a democracy.
Ability to participate in civil and informed discussion with peers and adults about issues, including controversial issues.
Acquisition of 21st century learning skills, including organization, collaboration, problem solving, presentation, and using technology.
Acquisition and application of reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills.
Development of positive civic dispositions, including understanding multiple perspectives, the will to try to effect positive change, and civic responsibility.
Increased knowledge about government class content, democratic ideals, and the role of citizens in a democracy.
Ability to participate in civil and informed discussion with peers and adults about issues, including controversial issues.
Acquisition of 21st century learning skills, including organization, collaboration, problem solving, presentation, and using technology.
Acquisition and application of reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills.
Development of positive civic dispositions, including understanding multiple perspectives, the will to try to effect positive change, and civic responsibility.
