As we move into our 2nd Unit on Early Humans and the development of Civilization, students will explore the Paleolithic and Neolithic ages. We will also be exploring the definition of civilization by investigating Mesoamerican and  Mesopotamian city-states.  Students will also be introduced to GRAPES, which stands for Geography, Religion, Achievements, Political, Economical, and Social Structures. As explore various civilizations throughout the year we will use this acronym to identify key features. 

This month, our 7th grade students paused their regular US History curriculum to observe Patriots Day, honoring the memory of 9/11. As part of their learning, they explored The Atlantic magazine covers to analyze how perspectives on the tragedy have evolved over the years. Students also took a virtual tour of the 9/11 Memorial Sites in New York City, Shanksville, and the Pentagon, deepening their understanding of the events and their lasting impact. To conclude, each student created a visual representation of one of the memorial sites, a few of which are featured above. 

In 8th Grade Social Studies, we have finished our Lesson 18 “Rise of Industry” where we learned about the Industrial Revolution & and the rise of big business. We also finished Lesson 19 “Great Wave of Immigration” where we learned about the large number of immigrants from around the world moving to the United States, Ellis Island, why they moved and how they were treated once they got here. Students took their Lesson 18&19 Summative Test and have now begun Lesson 20 “Progressive Era” where students will be learning about  the widespread social activism and political reform across the country and specific individuals who were considered “progressive”.