Quarter 1

Unit 1

Geography of New York State

In our first unit students will begin the exploration of New York. They will create various maps to represent and examine the geography of New York State. 

• I can observe physical and thematic maps to explore New York State's diverse geography.

• I can interpret a political map of New York State that shows cities, capital, and boundaries.

Quarter 1

Unit 2

Native American Groups and the Environment

In our second unit students will examine the geographic factors that influenced early settlements in New York and how each Native American group developed a unique way of life. Students will also focus on the importance of the Iroquois Confederacy. 

• I can explain that geographic factors often influenced locations of early settlements and that people made use of the resources and the lands around them to meet their basic needs of food, clothing, and shelter.

• I can describe the specific patterns of organization and governance that Native Americans used to manage their societies.

• I can identify the customs, beliefs, and values of the Native American Groups.

Quarter 2 & 3

Unit 3

Colonial and Revolutionary Period in New York

In our third unit students will trace how European exploration led to the colonization of New York. Students will examine the main causes of the American Revolution and the role New York played in winning that war.

• I can learn about European Explorers and their reasons for exploration of New York's waterways.

• I can explain how Colonial New York became home to many different people.

• I can summarize the importance The English, French, and their Native American allies as they fought the French and Indian War.

• I can describe the growing conflicts between England and the 13 colonies over issues of political and economic rights led to the American Revolution. 

Quarter 3

Unit 4

Government

In our fourth unit students will identify the different levels of government within the United States and New York.

• I can examine how the United States of America established a federal government to do things that individual states could not do on their own; colonies established state governments.

• I can read and discuss the importance of The New York State Constitution.

• I can learn about government in New York State and how it is organized into counties, cities, towns, and villages.

In our fifth unit students will determine how different groups of people have been deprived of equal rights and freedom and the methods used to bring about change. They will also focus on New York's role in bringing about that change.

• I can analyze how people worked to fight against slavery and for change in New York State.

• I can compare the rights of women and men in the United States and New York State and how they sought to expand their rights and bring about change.

• I can explain how New York State supported the Union and played an important role in this war.

In our sixth unit students will identify the role New York played in developing the United States with improvements in transportation and technology.

• I can compare the different modes of transportation in New York State history. 

• I can evaluate how the Erie Canal connected New York State to the larger world.

• I can connect the rapid industrialization of New York State and how it impacted the economy through business and technology. 

• I can explain why immigrants came to New York State for a variety of reasons.