About Mr. Caldwell
My name is Stephen Caldwell and this is my seventh year here at Ashford School. I grew up in Eastern Connecticut, living in Willimantic, Eastford, and Ashford. After graduating high school I attended Eastern Connecticut State University where I had a double major in history and political science. Upon graduating I began working in local schools, and shortly thereafter I began taking night classes towards a degree in teaching. I recently graduated with my M.S. in Secondary Education, also from Eastern Connecticut State University.
Outside of school I enjoy spending as much time as I can with my family. I’m an avid reader, with most of the books I read related to historical topics. I’ll often pick up a book related to a time period which I’m less familiar with, and then excitedly read everything I can find on the topic for months.
My favorite subject in school is history. I’ve always been inspired by the fact that over and over again history shows us that individuals or small groups of people with a dream and determination can change entire societies. More than anything else I want my students to leave the classroom knowing that they can make a positive change in the world.
It is my sincere belief that the purpose of a social studies class is to help students become responsible citizens capable of making a positive change in the world and giving them the tools and motivation to go forward and make their communities a better place.
I would love to hear from you or answer any questions which you might have. I can be reached by email at scaldwell@ashfordct.org or by phone at 860-429-6419 extension 335.
8th Grade - U.S. History/Social Studies
Overview
This year in social studies we will be studying American history, our system of government, and what it means to be a citizen of the United States. We will also be studying current events, and engaging in respectful discussions.
The main time period in American history we will be studying will be from Colonial America to the Gilded Age. Approximately the 1600’s to the 1890’s. New educational standards in social studies have encouraged 8th grade to cover a shorter time period, but in greater detail. This also saves a new period of American history to be learned in high school.
A special emphasis throughout the class will be on projects which the students are able to help select. This will enable them to explore topics of interest within the subject matter.
7th Grade - Geography/World Cultures
Overview
This year in social studies we will be studying the five themes of geography as well as the culture and history of Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. We will also study current events, particularly as they relate to the regions being studied.
A special emphasis throughout the class will be on projects which the students are able to help select. This will enable them to explore topics of interest within the subject matter.
Helpful Links -
http://www.cnn.com/specials/cnn-10---archive
https://www.nationalgeographic.org/bee/study
Social Studies Standards -
National Standards - https://www.socialstudies.org/sites/default/files/c3/C3-Framework-for-Social-Studies.pdf
State Standards - http://www.sde.ct.gov/sde/lib/sde/pdf/board/ssframeworks.pdf