Investigating History
Grades 5-7: ORIGINAL EDITIONS
Embedded Files
About the Original Investigating History Curriculum
About the Original Investigating History Curriculum
Investigating History was first released by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) as an open-source curriculum for Grades 5–7. Primary Source was honored to serve as the lead author of IH Grades 5-7, a groundbreaking curriculum designed to bring inquiry-driven, standards-based, inclusive history into classrooms across the Commonwealth.
In 2025, DESE revised the curriculum and changed its format. While these updated materials remain publicly available through DESE, many educators have expressed a strong preference for the original versions that Primary Source and DESE created. Teachers have consistently told us that they value the clarity, usability, and classroom-ready materials of the originals.
In response, Primary Source is making the full set of original Investigating History units and resources available here. Our goal is to ensure that teachers continue to have easy access to the materials they know, trust, and rely on.
Grade 6: Original Edition
Grade 7: Original Edition
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT FOR GRADEs 5-7
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT FOR GRADEs 5-7
As the authors of the Investigating History curriculum for Grades 5–7, Primary Source is uniquely positioned to support educators with implementation and professional learning. Our programs are designed to build both content knowledge and instructional confidence, whether you are just beginning with the curriculum or seeking to deepen your expertise.
Our professional development offerings include:
On-demand Unit Overview Modules (Grades 5–7): Each asynchronous module takes about six hours to complete and includes engaging videos from curriculum authors and scholars. These modules provide flexible, practical introductions to each unit that teachers can access anytime. Click here to purchase modules. $300 per unit per teacher. Partner districts receive discounts.
Comprehensive Online Course (Grades 5–7): A self-paced, asynchronous course that supports educators in implementing the full year of curriculum with practical strategies, historical insight, and access to scholar-led resources. Participants may earn two graduate credits upon completion. Click here to purchase the full-year online course. $1000 + optional grad credit fee ($300). Partner districts receive discounts.
Custom Workshops (virtual or in-person): Tailored sessions to meet district or school needs.
Instructional Coaching: Personalized support for teachers and school leaders.
Support for Grades 3–4: Ensuring continuity and alignment across the full Investigating History curriculum.
Primary Source developed online and in-person programming that supports deeper content knowledge.
We are honored to partner with educators to bring Investigating History to life in classrooms across Massachusetts and beyond. For more information about Investigating History professional development or in-district opportunities, please contact our program administrator, Olivia Maduro, at olivia@primarysource.org.
About Primary Source
About Primary Source
Primary Source is a nonprofit organization founded in 1989. For over 35 years, we have partnered with educators to bring global and inclusive history and civics education to schools. Our work includes authoring statewide curricula such as Investigating History, developing innovative resources like Making Freedom: African Americans in U.S. History, and providing professional learning for thousands of teachers each year. We are committed to inquiry-based, culturally responsive teaching that empowers students to understand the past and engage thoughtfully with the world today.
Page updated
Report abuse