There are six social studies standards, each of which has a number of lettered strands. Strands are subtopics that help teachers and curriculum developers identify the chronology of the standards as well as specific content and skills. Each strand is further subdivided into cumulative progress indicators (CPIs) that provide the level of specificity necessary to develop local curriculum objectives within specific grade level clusters (e.g., K-2, 3-4, 5-8, 9-12). The CPIs are cumulative; that is, teachers should not reteach concepts and skills in previous grade levels. However, some students may require review and reinforcement in order to achieve the higher grade-level CPIs.

The CPIs include the essential core of social studies. Topics that are listed following the word “including” must be addressed in the local curriculum and taught. Many CPIs provide examples of topics that could be covered in the curriculum preceded by “e.g.” These examples illustrate what is meant by the indicator. They are not meant to be a complete list of topics to be covered and should be further explored and expanded in local curriculum.