AP Gov't & Politics

Course Essential Question: What factors led to the downfall and enlightenment of human societies?

Purpose: The Westfield Social Studies seventh grade curriculum aims to develop students into self-directed learners, who attain skills necessary to succeed beyond their school career. All students acquire the knowledge and skills to think analytically and systematically about how past interactions of people, cultures, and the environment affect issues across time and cultures.

Aim: The goal of the Westfield Social Studies Program is to prepare students to think critically, solve problems, creatively innovate, effectively communicate, and collaborate with their peers. This goal includes facilitating students’ development into civic-minded, reflective, globally aware, and socially and ethically responsible world citizens in the 21st century.

Rationale: The seventh-grade curriculum is inquiry-driven, with students formulating their own questions in addition to the essential questions provided for each unit. Throughout the year, students analyze social studies from multiple perspectives by consulting numerous primary and secondary sources, while assessing their validity and contextualization. As a result of their thorough research, students are encouraged to draw informed conclusions and provide evidence to support their discoveries.

Content Scope:

Unit 1: The Middle Ages

Essential Question: What basic necessities does a society need to establish order?

Unit 2: The Renaissance & Reformation

Essential Question: When is it appropriate to challenge the beliefs or values of a society ruling body?

Unit 3: European Exploration and Colonization of North America

Essential Question: What role do geography and cultural interactions have in the success or failure of a newly-established civilization?

Unit 4: The Founding of the American Colonies

Essential Question: How can societies develop differently, despite their geographic proximity to one another?

Grading:

  • 60% Assessments

    • Projects

    • Tests/Quizzes

    • DBQs

    • Debate Participation

  • 40% Homework/Classwork

    • Writing Tasks

    • Study Skills

    • Reading Comprehension

    • Thesis Practice