Elementary Social Studies Curriculum
Inquiry Journeys brings joy and rigor to elementary social studies, engaging students and supporting teachers in inquiry-based classrooms.
Download the Scope and Sequence to explore.
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Build Knowledge. Sharpen Skills. Hit the Standards.
Inquiry Journeys, inquirED’s K–5 curriculum, builds deeper social studies content knowledge through inquiry.
Inquiry Journeys: Elementary Social Studies Built on Inquiry
In every Inquiry Journeys unit, students read, write, discuss, and analyze primary and secondary sources — then apply their learning through hands-on investigations. These practices deepen learning, strengthen literacy, and connect social studies to students’ lives and communities.
- Builds Deep Knowledge: Students make sense of content through sustained inquiry.
- Supports Critical Thinking: Lessons focus on analysis, evidence, and reflection.
- Boosts Literacy Skills: Reading, writing, speaking, and listening are integrated into every unit.
Download the Scope and Sequence to see how it all comes together.
Benefits of being an early adopter
Early adopter districts gain customized onboarding and professional learning that set teachers up for success, continuous support and troubleshooting to ensure smooth implementation, priority access to preview and shape new content before release, and direct input into Inkwell’s design through ongoing feedback with our product team.


Ideal district partners
Participating districts commit to implementing in at least one grade level for a full year. We are looking for partner districts that are innovative, value continuous improvement, and prioritize research-driven decision-making.
As part of the program, districts will receive:
- Implementation Support: Hands-on guidance to implement Inkwell in selected classrooms or schools and help refine the program.
- Collaborative Feedback : Regular opportunities to share constructive input that shapes curriculum content and digital platform enhancements.
- Research Opportunities: Partnerships on case studies and research projects that highlight your district as a national leader in integrated instruction.
Better Together: A First Look at Integrated ELA and Social Studies
For decades, students have learned them in isolation; Inkwell doesn't just bring them together - it fully integrates them. In this early preview of our in-development program, you’ll see how weaving ELA and social studies together nurtures stronger readers, deeper thinkers, and richer learning experiences. Explore the vision, preview early materials, and join the conversation as we build Inkwell with pioneering districts.
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About inquirED
inquirED supports teachers with high-quality instructional materials that make joyful, rigorous, and transferable learning possible for every student. Our social studies curricula – Inquiry Journeys (K-5) and Middle School World History – are used across the country to help students build deep content knowledge and develop inquiry skills essential for a thriving democracy.