Social Studies

Social Studies 6

Grade 6 Social Studies is based on the geography and history of the Eastern Hemisphere, including the development of cultures, civilizations, and empires; interactions between societies; and the comparison of trends in government and economics. It also incorporates some elements of other social sciences.

The course begins with an examination of the Eastern Hemisphere today, using geographic skills. This provides the foundation for making connections between the past and the present throughout the course. 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.

American History I

Beginning in seventh grade, a two-year study of American History is initiated. The American History I course is a chronological exploration of American History from the pre-Columbian era through the period of Reconstruction and aligns with the NYS Framework for Social Studies education. The units of instruction include “America Prior to 1500”, “Exploration and Colonization”, “A New Nation”, “Experiments in Government”, “Life in the New Nation”, and “Division and Reunion”. Important historical, economic, geographic and governmental features of this period are studied, and specialized social studies skills are taught.

They include the following:

A. reading maps, charts, and graph

B. interpreting political cartoons

C. reading, speaking, and listening skills

D. essay writing

E. research skills

F. computer / technology skills

G. study skills

H. analyzing primary source documents.

I. analyzing current events

J. studying a given historical period or theme through an interdisciplinary lens

The teaching of lifelong, civic skills and the application of social studies skills are important components of the social studies program. At the conclusion of the American History I course, students will take a school-developed assessment which serves as their final exam.

American History II

The exploration of history in eighth grade concludes a two-year study of American History. The course begins with the post-Civil War Era and continues to the present including the following units: “An Industrial Society”, “The United States in an Interdependent World”, “The United States Between the Wars”, “Worldwide Responsibilities”, and “World War II to the Present.” The course aligns with and covers the breadth and scope of the NYS Framework for Social Studies Instruction. Students are involved in the study of historical, social, geographic, political, and economic themes as they relate to the people and events of this time period. In June of eighth grade, students will take a school developed assessment, which serves as the final exam for American History II.

The teaching of specialized social studies skills continues in eighth grade and will include the following:

A. reading maps, charts, and graphs