Grade 6 Social Studies is based on the 5 pillars of a successful civilization. These 5 pillars include: geography, government, religion, economy and culture. Studies will be primarily based upon the history of the Eastern Hemisphere, including the development of these cultures, civilizations, and empires; interactions between societies; and the comparison of trends in government and economics. The course begins with an examination of basic geographic skills and making connections between the past and present. The remainder of the course is divided into seven Key Ideas that cover a time span from pre-history into the 1300s. Students are provided the opportunity to explore belief systems across time and to examine the foundations of democracy. New York State K-8 Social Studies Framework
THE FIRST HUMANS THROUGH THE NEOLITHIC REVOLUTION IN THE EASTERN HEMISPHERE:
September-October
I can examine how the first humans modified their physical environment as well as adapted to their environment.
INTERACTIONS ACROSS THE EASTERN HEMISPHERE:
I can describe how the trade networks promoted the diffusion of language, belief systems, tools, intellectual ideas, and diseases.
I can investigate the 4 theories leading to the death of Otzi the Iceman while considering the beliefs, culture, tools, diseases of his time period, and scientific research, including modern technology and preservation.
PRESENT-DAY EASTERN HEMISPHERE GEOGRAPHY:
January
I can examine the diverse geography of the Eastern Hemisphere and determine how it has influenced human culture and settlement patterns.
I can present claims and findings, sequence ideas logically and use pertinent descriptions, facts, and details to accentuate main ideas or themes in a 5 paragraph informative essay.
I can use appropriate eye contact, adequate volume, and clear pronunciation when sharing verbally.
I can use/include multimedia components (e.g., graphics, images, music, sound) and visual displays in presentations to clarify information.
EARLY RIVER VALLEY CIVILIZATIONS IN THE EASTERN HEMISPHERE:
March-April
I can examine how complex societies and civilizations developed in the Eastern Hemisphere.
COMPARATIVE CLASSICAL CIVILIZATIONS IN THE EASTERN HEMISPHERE:
I can analyze how complex societies and civilizations have changed and evolved over time.
COMPARATIVE WORLD RELIGIONS:
April-May
I can compare and contrast belief systems and explore the influence beliefs have on cultures and events.
COMPARATIVE CLASSICAL CIVILIZATIONS IN THE EASTERN HEMISPHERE:
I can analyze how complex societies and civilizations have changed and evolved over time.
WWII AND THE HOLOCAUST:
I can understand the connections between World War II and the Holocaust as historical phenomena. Parent Resource: The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
READING, WRITING, SPEAKING & LISTENING STANDARDS (Integrated Throughout)
I can cite specific textual evidence to support analysis of primary and secondary sources, attending to such features as the date and origin of the information.
I can determine the central ideas or information of a primary or secondary source; provide an accurate summary of how key events or ideas develop over the course of the text.
I can compare the point of view of two or more authors for how they treat the same or similar topics, including which details they include and emphasize in their respective accounts.
I can integrate quantitative or technical analysis (e.g., charts research data) with qualitative analysis in print or digital text.
I can write arguments focused on discipline-specific content.
I can write informative/explanatory texts, including the narration of historical events or technical processes.
I can conduct short as well as more sustained research projects to answer a question or solve a problem.
I can gather relevant information from multiple authoritative print and digital sources, using advanced searches effectively.
I can initiate and participate effectively in a range of collaborative discussions (one-on-one, in groups, and teacher-led) with diverse partners on historical topics, texts, and issues building on others' ideas and expressing their own clearly and persuasively.
I can present information, findings, and supporting evidence clearly, concisely, and logically such that listeners can follow the line of reasoning and the organization, development, substance, and style are appropriate to purpose, audience, and task.
With a student-friendly core, this Social Studies curriculum is organized thematically to the strands of civics and government, geography, economics, and history.
This program is laid out in a student-friendly periodical format which also includes a robust online learning platform. Teachers, students, and parents will find that it is:
Hands-on and Interactive
Spiraled and Scaffolded
Integrated with ELA
Standards-aligned
Research-based
Integrated with SEL (Social Emotional Learning) Components
Bringing a collection of Atlas into each child's classroom allows them to explore places near and far. These are full of powerful information about world geography. They cover all 7 continents and engage students with their stunning use of color. This atlas has found the right balance between simplicity and information density, making it an excellent classroom atlas for late elementary, middle and high school students. Some contents included are:
Guidance for using the atlas and a foundation for understanding the geographic themes repeated throughout
Regional studies of the seven continents that include political, land cover, and thematic maps and illuminating photos, infographics, and sidebar texts
Sculptural-relief (elevation) maps of the world and United States