As the C3 Framework for the social studies rolls out, it is hoped that its influence will grow, offering a vision and guidance for the development of a new generation of state social studies standards that promote deeper student learning and the acquisition of essentials skills for college, career, and civic life. In the interim, it can be an inspiring and useful tool for social studies teachers who dedicate their lives to preparing each new generation of students for informed, skilled, and engaged participation in the workings of the constitutional republic. Agreeing that inquiry and the pursuit of knowledge through questioning is a central focus of the four core social studies disciplines--Civics, Economics, Geography, and History--the developers organized the Framework around a so-called Inquiry Arc, composed of four dimensions. The first Dimension focuses on developing compelling and supporting questions that can frame and advance an inquiry. Dimension 2 emphasizes applying concepts and tools from the four disciplines to help address the inquiry and answer questions. Dimension 3 centers on students' evaluating sources and using evidence when addressing questions. And finally, Dimension 4 presents the learner with opportunities to communicate conclusions and take informed action on issues and problems identified through the process. The final dimension can and often does lead to more inquiry.