Course InfoRmation

Seventh Grade Social Studies

The seventh-grade social studies curriculum is divided into two distinct parts.  The first two-thirds of the year focuses on specific “social studies laws” related to natural resources, geography, government, religion, and war.  A thematic study of social studies helps students better understand the subject and the world around them.  Students will explore these themes by surveying different historical societies, including the Bantu of Africa, the Byzantine Empire and the Islamic world, the Chinese, the Maya, the Aztecs, the Incas, and feudal Japan.

During the final third of the year, students will explore Medieval Europe and the beginnings of the European Age of Exploration in chronological order.  Particular emphasis will be placed on European cultural development and the personal, economic, political, and religious motivations for exploration.  Overall, the final third of the year transitions into the study of American history in eighth grade.

In addition, students will use newspapers and relevant media as resources to develop the skills necessary to criticize and evaluate current national and international affairs.

Eighth Grade Social Studies

The eighth-grade social studies curriculum focuses on American history.  The first half of the school year focuses on the driving forces behind America’s desire for independence from Great Britain, the resulting American Revolution, and the implementation of a new system of government under the Constitution.  Students will examine the roles and responsibilities of the three branches of the United States government.  Additionally, students will discuss federalism and the protection of individual liberties, as delineated in the Bill of Rights, in detail.

The second half of the school year analyzes American expansionism as exemplified by the development and strengthening of the federal government, including the presidency, the westward movement of the American people, and the acquisition of territory through peaceful agreement and military action.  Students will examine movements designed to improve the lives of all Americans during this era, particularly women and African Americans.  Through research, students will investigate the importance of each reform movement.  The year will conclude with an introduction and overview of the Civil War and Reconstruction period.

Students will understand and appreciate the cultural heritage of the people of the United States and the necessity and importance of civic participation, with these concepts infused into each unit of study.  Using newspapers and relevant media as resources, they will develop an ability to criticize and evaluate current national and international affairs.