Mission
The history/social studies curriculum is designed to help students acquire the knowledge, judgment, and skills to participate intelligently and responsibly in civic life and continue to learn for themselves. Essential skills of writing expository papers, using library resources and technology, reading maps, interpreting authentic documents and data, preparing research papers, and participating in discussions are taught and reinforced in all courses.
Click here to read the Fall 2018 Grade 6-12 History and Social Studies Newsletter
Curriculum
Course M360/M361 GRADE 6 SOCIAL STUDIES Full Year
This course will introduce all students to the general field of social studies. The first three quarters of the year will be organized around defining and understanding the basics of history, geography, economics, and government. Much emphasis will be placed on skill development in writing, using technology, conducting research, interpreting graphic organizers, and reading maps. Students will spend the fourth quarter studying archaeology and the prehistoric world.
Course M370/M371 GRADE 7 HISTORY OF ANCIENT CIVILIZATIONS Full Year
This course will investigate the major components of civilizations in the ancient world. Some examples of cultural areas which will be explored are: government, law, religion, social structure, literature, art, geography, and architecture. This investigation will begin with the early civilization of Sumer. Other units to follow will include the Middle East, India, China, Greece, and the Roman Empire. Throughout the year, emphasis will be placed on refining students‘ basic skills in research, oral expression, and critical writing.
Course M380/M381 GRADE 8 UNITED STATES HISTORY Full Year
This course will expose students to a variety of materials and experiences designed to reinforce their understanding of history in general, and American history in particular. Besides a chronological survey of political and social events, much emphasis will be placed on the roots of our country‘s ideals, traditions, and institutions. The annual eighth grade trip to Washington, D.C., will provide the opportunity to make our nation‘s capital a key component of the course and allow students to see themselves as active participants in the process of government. Within the chronological survey, special emphasis will be given to the period prior to the Civil War. Throughout the year, students will continue to work on skill development; in particular, writing expository essays. Current events will also be integrated to help students connect the past to the present.
