In this document the social studies knowledge and skills deemed necessary for preparing Maine students for work, higher education, citizenship, and personal fulfillment are identified. The document serves as a guideline for teachers and parents regarding what students should know and be able to do at various checkpoints during their social studies education. Introductory materials include "Guiding Principles" and "Structural Processes for Shaping and Implementing Education Reform." Social studies content is organized by discipline area and is further differentiated by content focus. "Civics and Government" is divided into content areas (1) "Rights, Responsibilities, and Participation"; (2) "Purposes and Types of Government"; (3) "Fundamental Principles of Government and Constitutions"; and (4) "International Relations." History includes content areas (1) "Chronology"; (2) "Historical Knowledge, Concepts, and Patterns"; and (3) "Historical Inquiry, Analysis and Interpretation." Geography contents are: (1) "Skills and Tools"; and (2) "Human Interactions with Environments." Economics knowledge and skills include (1) "Personal and Consumer Economics"; (2) "Economic Systems of the United States"; (3) "Comparative Systems"; and (4) "International Trade and Global Interdependence." Lists of knowledge and skill expectations are given in each content area for students in four age groups: (1) elementary grades: pre-K - 2; (2) elementary grades: 3-4; (3) middle grades: 5-8; and (4) secondary grades: 9-12. (MM)