DEVELOP - Curriculum Development - National 4-H Curriculum

Core Guiding Principles for 4-H Curriculum Development

Support and advance Mission Mandates through foundational, critical, and emerging issues
4-H Positive Youth Development (PYD) content is framed around the Essential Elements, inclusivity, and life skills.
Learning experiences are developmentally appropriate.
Content has a scope and sequence; has objectives and standards; and is research-based.
Curriculum is high-quality with a comprehensive development process
Individual and group learning are valued; youth and adults are both learners.
Click here to download the 4-H Curriculum Core Guiding Principles. (PDF)

Curriculum Development Standards, by Mission Mandate and Content Area

Science, Engineering, and Technology (SET)

The United States is falling behind other nations in developing its future workforce of scientists, engineers, and technology experts. To ensure global competitiveness, we must act now to prepare the next generation of science, engineering, and technology leaders.

The 4-H Youth Development Program - with its direct connection to the research and resources of the Cooperative Extension System’s 106 land-grant universities and colleges - is strategically positioned to strengthen United States global competitiveness and leadership.

4-H will address our nation's critical challenge by preparing 1 million new young people to excel in science, engineering, and technology by 2013. Currently, 4-H Science, Engineering and Technology programs reach more than 5 million youth with hands-on learning experiences to encourage young minds and fill the pipeline of young leaders proficient in science.

The following documents outline key components and criteria that SET curricula must adhere to in order to meet quality review standards.

SET Definition
Characteristics and Elements of SET Curriculum
National Science Education Standards
SET Curriculum Rubric
SET Curriculum Design Worksheet

The 4-H SET Logic Model is a useful tool for 4-H SET programs. Align your activities with desired SET outcomes and end goals: SET Logic Model

Healthy Living Content Standards

A core belief of 4-H is Health, as evidenced by the four H's in the 4-H clover: Head, Heart, Hands, and Health. 4-H is committed to the physical, mental and emotional health of our nation's youth so they may lead healthy and productive lives into adulthood. 4-H has become a national leader in health-related educational issues including chemical health, mental and emotional health, foods and nutrition, physical health and safety. Healthy Living curriculum development resources are under development.

Citizenship Content Standards

Since its inception, 4-H has placed emphasis on the importance of young people being engaged, well-informed citizens. By connecting to their communities and leaders, youth understand their role in civic affairs and are able to expand their role in decision-making processes. It's clear that civic engagement provides the foundation that helps youth understand the big picture of life and learn the skill sets that will allow them to become wise leaders for the 21st century. Citizenship curriculum development resources are under development.