Students who understand history, geography, current events, and the other social studies will have a greater ability to make decisions, to participate in democracy, and to be better citizens of their communities, nation, and the world. Social studies is naturally interesting and vitally important!
All middle school students work to develop strong study, research, and presentation skills, demonstrated through several projects through the school year. Regular quizzes and written tests are utilized to assess learning. Students gain an appreciation (and even a love!) of history and build important life skills like writing, critical thinking, reading for meaning, and civic responsibility.
Sixth graders study the ancient world, focusing on the civilizations of Egypt, Ancient India, Ancient China, Greece, and Rome.
Sixth grade social studies projects include:
Seventh graders focus their studies on world history from approximately 500 A.D. through 1600 A.D. The civilizations of Africa, China, Byzantine Empire, Islamic Empires, and pre-Colombian America are the focus of the first trimester.
In the second trimester, focus shifts to Europe as students investigate the Middle Ages. The third trimester covers the Renaissance through the early modern Age of Discovery. There is an emphasis throughout on asking critical thinking questions, making comparisons between the past and modern day events, and encouraging students to become engaged with the “story” part of history.
Seventh grade social studies projects include:
Eighth graders focus their studies on American history beginning with the colonial era and moving chronologically through to the Civil War.
Eighth grade social studies projects include:
Eighth graders also have a special focus on the U.S. Constitution and ongoing reading and discussions about current events.
