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 involve examining specific “social studies laws” regarding natural resources, geography, government, religion, and war.  Focusing on a thematic study of social studies enables students to better understand the subject and the world around them.  Students will look to understand 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, and the Incas, and the feudal Japanese.

During the final third of the year, students will chronologically explore Medieval Europe and the beginnings of the European Age of Exploration.  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 serves as a transition 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 is dedicated to the study of American history.  The first half of the school year is focused on studying 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, concepts of federalism and the protection of individual liberties, as delineated in the Bill of Rights, will be discussed in detail.

The second half of the school year involves an analysis of 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 the movements designed to improve conditions of life for all Americans during this era, particularly for 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, for which concepts are 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.