Request for Proposals: Create a Lesson Plan for “Rights and Responsibilities in History”

Post updated on 9/9/24 to reflect deadline extension

Request for Proposals: History/Social Studies Lesson Plan Development

Theme: “Rights and Responsibilities in History”

Issued by: Alaska Historical Society
Date: July 29th, 2024

Proposal Submission Deadline: September 10th, 2024 Extended Through October 15th!


Introduction

Alaska Historical Society, the affiliate sponsor for National History Day® in Alaska, is seeking proposals from 6th-12th grade history/social studies teachers and librarians to create comprehensive and engaging lesson plans on the theme “Rights and Responsibilities in History.” This initiative aims to enhance students’ understanding of historical events, figures, and movements through the exploration of rights and responsibilities as key components of societal development. These lesson plans will be made freely available to educators online via the Alaska History Day website, with credit given to the submitting teacher.  Successful applicants will be awarded a $250 honorarium for their work. This opportunity has been made possible through a grant from the Atwood Foundation.

If selected, applicants will be notified by email. Lesson plans should be submitted by October 10, 2024.

Proposal Requirements

  1. Lesson Plan Summary:
    The lesson plan should revolve around the theme “Rights and Responsibilities in History.” Educators are encouraged to explore various historical events, figures, and movements that highlight the interplay of rights and responsibilities.  

2. Focus Areas:

  • Alaska History: Preference will be given to lesson plans that focus on Alaska’s unique historical context. This includes indigenous history, statehood, natural resource management, and notable historical figures and events specific to Alaska.
  • National History Day (NHD) Framework: Lesson plans that align with the National History Day project framework will be prioritized. This includes fostering historical research, critical thinking, and project-based learning in accordance with NHD guidelines.

3. Grade Levels:
The lesson plans should be tailored to the appropriate cognitive and developmental levels of 6th-12th grade students.

4. Deliverable Materials

  • Detailed Lesson Plan: A comprehensive lesson plan that includes:
    • Objectives/Expected Outcomes: Clear learning objectives aligned with the theme including a clear statement of what the students will have learned or completed.
    • Materials: A list of materials and resources needed for the lesson.
    • Activities: Step-by-step instructions for classroom activities, discussions, and assessments.
    • Assessment: Methods for evaluating student understanding and engagement.
    • Alignment with Standards: How the lesson aligns with state and/or national history/social studies standards.
  • Supplementary Materials: Any additional resources such as handouts, multimedia, primary sources, or project guidelines should be submitted with the lesson plan.

5. Implementation and Adaptability:

  • The lesson plan should be practical and feasible for implementation within a typical classroom setting.
  • Include suggestions for adapting the lesson to diverse learning environments and student needs, such as small class sizes or multi-age classrooms.

Evaluation Criteria

Proposals will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

  • Relevance and Depth: Alignment with the theme “Rights and Responsibilities in History” and depth of historical content.
  • Focus on Alaska History and NHD Framework: Preference will be given to lesson plans that emphasize Alaska history and/or align with the National History Day framework.
  • Engagement and Creativity: The ability to engage students through interactive and creative activities.
  • Clarity and Organization: Clear, well-organized, and detailed lesson plans.

Submission Guidelines:

Proposals should include:

  • The applicant’s name; contact information including mailing address, email, and phone number
  • A brief summary of the applicant’s professional experience and education. (Resumé or CV may be substituted).
  • A concise title and a brief overview of the lesson plan, including the historical topic, grade level, key objectives, and expected learning outcomes.

Submission Deadline: All proposals must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. Alaska time September 10th, 2024 October 15th.

Submission Method: Proposals should be submitted electronically to alaskahistoryday@gmail.com

Contact Information: For any questions or further information, please contact Leanna Williams, Alaska History Day coordinator, at alaskahistoryday@gmail.com.


We look forward to receiving innovative and impactful lesson plans that will help Alaska teachers and their students with their study of the state’s rich and diverse history. Thank you for your commitment to excellence in history and social studies education.

Sincerely,
Leanna Williams

Alaska Historical Society Board Member

Coordinator, Alaska History Dayalaskahistoryday@gmail.com