Many of the resources from this page were found on the CDE's Resources to Support Civic Engagement page.
Even the youngest students can become civically engaged! The following resources can help K–8 students get excited about civics.
Ben Franklin’s Guide to the U.S. Government
Apprentice-level learning adventures geared at teaching kids ages four through eight about the U.S. government.
Power of Democracy Civic Learning Initiative
Elementary schools are encouraged to apply for Civic Learning Awards and participate in the Judges in the Classroom Program. Lesson resources are also available for elementary students on the Digital Chalkboard.
A wide range of short articles on various topics in world history, American history, and government. Also includes a series of biographies on dozens of influential individuals.
Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate Program Offerings
In-person and virtual field trips designed for kindergarten through grade 5 students focusing on fundamental principles of democracy.
Students can choose from a variety of games ranging in length from 0–30+ minutes on topics such as voting, arguing Supreme Court cases, and international diplomacy.
Learning for Justice—Classroom Civil Discourse
Lesson plans focused on teaching the skills of civil discourse when discussing social justice issues, designed for a kindergarten through grade two audience.
Rendell Center for Civics and Civic Engagement Literature-Based Mock Trials
Lesson framework to implement literature-based mock trials in K–8. They also feature a series of read-alouds and other literature-based lessons focused on exercising First Amendment rights.
These resources are appropriate for students primarily in high school, although many can be adapted for grades six through eight.
California Secretary of State (SOS) High School and Youth Initiatives
Information about SOS initiatives to educate and engage young Californian’s in the democratic process, including programs to pre-register to vote at age 16, High School Voter Education Weeks, California Student Mock Elections, and guidance for school administrators and teachers.
This collection of resources includes five civics modules that draw on research conducted by the MacArthur Research Network on Youth and Participatory Politics. Each module includes a conversation starter, activities, and closing reflection, as well as teacher background information.
Educating for Democracy in the Digital Age
Curriculum for high school teachers, including an action project, research and blogging, democracy in action, and infographics.
Picture Yourself in Local Government (PYLG)
The Institute for Local Government’s PYLG units focus on roles, responsibilities, and processes of local government.
Sacramento County Office of Education (SCOE) Action Civics
The Action Civics initiative worked to civic awareness and engagement in 14 middle and high schools in the Sacramento region. This site includes resources to support professional development provided through the program and other tools to support civic learning. The initiative also developed resources for middle school students.
Power of Democracy Civic Learning Initiative Lessons on Demand
Free resource library, textbooks, and other resources to support rule of law education and curriculum.
Service-learning opportunities provide ways for students and the community to come together to develop habits of community engagement. These resources can help educators facilitate projects, while also tying them back to the classroom.