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Understanding US History

Understanding U.S. History

History is presented in a uniquely understandable fashion because events are explained in the context of big ideas in history, and organized using the problem-solution-effect format. Historical events are understood as responses to either economic problems or human rights problems. Human responses are categorized as attempts to solve these problems through accommodating, dominating, moving, inventing, or tolerating (ADMIT) the problem. Presenting historical information in a carefully organized fashion results in greater student comprehension and retention. Several times in each chapter, the key content is captured in test questions that require an essay answer. Students are provided with scaffolding (graphic organizers and model answers) to help them learn the key ideas of the text and articulate their answers to the essay questions. In addition, the text includes excellent, frequent exercises for vocabulary instruction, cumulative review, and extension activities for higher-order thinking.  


Texts

Understanding U.S. History Volume I—Through 1914 by Douglas Carnine, Donald Crawford, Mark Harness & Keith Hollenbeck

Understanding U.S. History Volume II—Reconstruction to World Leadership by Douglas Carnine, Don Steely & Jerry Silbert

Teacher’s Manuals—Volumes I & II  

Program Resources

Access related documents for this program.

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What is a Peer Coach?

Peer coaches play a critical role in sustaining strong implementation of Direct Instruction (DI) at the school level. Selected during the first year of implementation, peer coaches are classroom teachers who demonstrate strong instructional practice, effective communication with colleagues, and a willingness to support others. Because they teach the same programs as their peers, they bring practical expertise and shared experience that help build trust and collaboration across the school.

As implementation progresses, peer coaches extend the impact of NIFDI consultants by providing ongoing, school-based support when consultants are not on-site. Their coaching is non-evaluative and focused on improving student outcomes. Peer coaches reinforce effective teaching practices and guide colleagues to make targeted adjustments that directly impact student performance and behavior.

Peer coaches participate in a structured, multi-year training sequence through NIFDI. Over the course of two to three years, they are trained to analyze student performance data, conduct both brief and extended classroom observations, and support data-driven problem solving. Advanced training prepares them to lead grade-level meetings and contribute to broader instructional planning with school leadership.

By developing peer coaches, schools build internal capacity to maintain and strengthen DI implementation over time—ensuring continuity, supporting new staff, and driving sustained student achievement.