Developing & Using Critical Comprehension

A new approach to K-5 digital literacy: teaching kids how to think, not what to think.

About DUCC

DUCC teaches K-5 students digital literacy through a combination of critical thinking skills and social-emotional learning. It includes a 24-lesson curriculum with four lesson plans per grade, four animated videos, and two online games.

Evidence-based. DUCC is non-partisan and was developed by leading experts in education, digital literacy, child psychology, critical thinking, and social studies to address the needs of kids growing up in a hyper-online world.

Comprehensive. It contains everything a teacher needs to implement the lessons in their classroom, from content to visuals to standards alignment with Common Core, ISTE, CASEL, and IB’s PYP as well as the AAP’s 5 C’s of Media Use.

Promotes Critical Thinking. Underlying the DUCC approach is a focus on critical thinking and logical reasoning, helping build skills in kids to be able to evaluate complex topics like algorithms and AI.

Appealing. The cast of characters and high-quality videos and games in the DUCC curriculum allow kids to immerse into the lessons, identifying with the characters and their situations.

  • Kindergarten

    Talking About Tech

  • 1st Grade

    Beliefs and Belonging

  • 2nd Grade

    Reliable Information

  • 3rd Grade

    Fact vs Opinion

  • 4th Grade

    Logic and Persuasion

  • 5th Grade

    Bursting the Filter Bubble

Meet Daniel & Friends

Over the course of kindergarten to fifth grade, Daniel the Duck and his friends will help students develop critical thinking skills. Join our feathered & furry pals on their mission to quack down on false information using DUCC’s lesson plans, videos, and online games. 

Daniel and Friends on the Playground

  • Daniel

    Daniel is DUCC’s eager-to-learn main character. He is intelligent, brave, and thoughtful. 

  • Penny

    Penny is one chill pig. She’s funny, deliberate, unique and peaceful. 

  • Ollie

    Ollie is the playful class clown. He is excited, energetic, and eager.

  • Bennie

    Bennie is a heartwarming character working on gaining more courage. She is careful, warm, and intelligent.

  • Darcy

    Darcy is Daniel’s older sister. She is protective, confident, and outspoken.

  • Frankie

    Frankie is Darcy’s best friend. Frankie is extroverted and thoughtful.

  • Miss Lisa

    Miss Lisa is the school librarian who is always there to help Daniel and his friends learn!