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
This “We Can Teach Hard Things—And We Should” webinar will focus on immigration. Learn from educators across political and socioeconomic divides who are navigating the same challenges and questions, and leave with the tools and confidence to teach your way.
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
Stay tuned for information on upcoming We Can Teach Hard Things webinars!
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 Immigration
Explore ways to teach immigration through inquiry, primary sources, and structured discussion while fostering civic dialogue in your classroom.
Use Our Resources
Teach students about the history of immigration in the United States, and dig into the path to citizenship, immigration reform, and let students try their hand at part of the naturalization test.
Immigration & Citizenship
In this WebQuest, students explore “coming to America.” They peek at the history of immigration, learn some reasons why people migrate and what attracts them to America, and look at the naturalization process.
Immigration: Pathway to Citizenship - HS
In this lesson, students learn about the U.S. process of immigration, including requirements for legal permanent residence, the path to citizenship, and how some are pushing for immigration reform.