We Can Teach Hard Things
We Can Teach Hard Things
We don’t stop teaching algebra when working with polynomials gets hard. Nor should we stop teaching civics when explaining the rule of law gets hard.
You can teach hard things—and should! But you don’t have to do it alone. Let iCivics support you as you navigate the growing challenges of teaching essential civics concepts amidst historic polarization.
Ready to get started? Choose the path that’s right for you:
There is a real sense of fear and anxiety among teachers right now—and we get it! There is a lot to be concerned about. According to research from RAND, 65% of teachers nationally report limiting discussions about political and social issues in class. The growing political divide in our communities has created a hesitation or all-out avoidance of approaching foundational civics and history topics.
This initiative is not about telling you how to teach. It is about giving you access to teachers across political and socioeconomic divides who are navigating the same challenges and questions, and giving you the tools and confidence to teach your way.
Register for the Next Webinar
In this We Can Teach Hard Things webinar, iCivics invites educators to engage in a thoughtful, practical discussion about teaching civil rights across U.S. history. This session examines how civil rights have been addressed through the Constitution, landmark amendments, court cases, legislation, and ongoing civic debates. We’ll explore how questions of rights, liberty, and plurality have evolved, and why those conversations still matter in classrooms today.
Through this webinar series, the perspectives of teachers across the country contribute to the public conversation about civic education in the United States. Each contributor represents their own opinion. We welcome this plurality of perspectives.
Upcoming Webinars
We Can Teach Hard Things Like Immigration
Hear from educators from across the country— in red, blue, and purple communities—about how they teach immigration, and walk away with ideas about how to tackle tough topics with your students.
Watch a Video
Chief Education Officer Emma Humphries shares instructional guidance, curated materials, and real-world examples of responsibly and effectively teaching civics topics in this moment.
Dive into a Deeper Explanation
Looking to learn more about We Can Teach Hard Things and the purpose behind it? Check out these blog posts, which go more in-depth with the research behind the suggestions made in Emma’s videos.
We Can Teach Hard Things, Like Foreign Policy
Learn how to incorporate foreign policy into social studies classes, and get a head start with iCivics teaching resources.
We Can Teach Hard Things, Like Redistricting
Unpack the content knowledge that students need to understand redistricting, and discover resources that can help.
We Can Teach Hard Things, Like Due Process
Craft a due process lesson plan with Emma, featuring state standards, historical headlines, and educational media.
Use Our Resources
Introduce students to foreign policy with an immersive game and interactive lesson plans. Your class will learn the foundations of foreign policy and how the government navigates relationships with other nations.
Convene the Council
In Convene the Council, your students will take on the role of president of the United States and discover why foreign policy matters.
Foreign Policy: War & Peace and Everything In Between
Students will learn the distinction between foreign and domestic policy and discover what role the executive branch plays. In addition, students learn how foreign policy power is shared with the legislative branch.
Diplomacy
Students are are called to decide which diplomacy tools work best in different situations, developing an understanding of negotiation, sanctions, and other elements used in diplomatic relationships.