Program of Studies
Social Studies Program of Studies
School Year 2013-2014
Overview of Programs
The three-year program in social studies focuses on ancient history in grade 6; world geography in grade 7; and U.S. history in grade 8. Our program is guided by the belief in personal and civic responsibility, devotion to human dignity, and respect for diversity. It is designed to help students to acquire a broad base of content knowledge; to develop fundamental skills; and to build problem solving and critical thinking techniques. The goal of the program is to produce independent learners who will explore their talents and interests; appreciate and value cultural diversity through global awareness; and become active participants in their community and civic life.
Grade Six: Ancient World History
Course Theme and Essential Question
Ancient history is the study of the human origins and historical development of ancient and classical civilizations. Students examine the people, places, ideas, and patterns of life that have shaped the course of history. By examining and comparing the geography; religions; governments; economies; philosophies; and cultural and scientific contributions of these ancient civilizations students gain an appreciation for and an understanding of how these civilizations have contributed to our lives. The study of ancient history allows students to answer the question, “How has the development of early civilization shaped our history and impacted our lives?”
Program/Text
A Message of Ancient Days, Houghton Mifflin Co., 1997.
Units of Study:
Unit 1: Archaeology and Its Importance in Studying Human Origins
Unit 2: Human Origins and the Rise of Settled Communities
Unit 3: The Ancient River Civilizations of Mesopotamia and Ancient Egypt
Unit 4: Early Western Civilization of Israel and Phoenicia
Unit 5: The Classical Civilization of Greece
Unit 6: The Classical Civilization of Rome
Grade Seven: World Geography
Course Theme and Essential Question:
Students study modern world geography to gain a better perspective and understanding of their responsibility in the world as individuals and as global neighbors. Students go beyond the study of physical geography to explore the diversity of our global community. Using the tools of the geographer, students learn to think logically and to critically examine the connections, conflicts, and problems that exist around the world. Studying geography helps students answer the question, “How can geography help us gain the knowledge we need to solve problems and effect change in an interconnected world?”
Program/Text:
World Cultures: A Global Mosaic, Prentice Hall, 2001.
myWorld Geography, Pearson Publishing Co., 2010 (desk sets only)
Units of Study:
Unit 1: The Tools of the Geographer
Unit 2: Europe
Unit 3: Africa
Unit 4: The Middle East
Unit 5: Central and South Asia
Unit 6: Southeast Asia and Oceania
Unit 7: North and East Asia
Unit 8: South America
Grade Eight: The Formative Years of the Republic from Colonization through Revolution
Course Theme and Essential Question:
Grade 8 American history is a companion curriculum for Grade 10. Students study the people, places, events, and ideas that characterize the United States during the formative years of the Republic from its settlement through our nation’s independence. Particular emphasis will be given to the basic concepts, principles, and framework of American democracy. Students enhance their commitment to our democratic ideals by expanding their course of study to include the program, Facing History and Ourselves. As a result of this program, students will begin to develop a deep and lasting loyalty to the principles of life, liberty, and equality that defines us as a nation. This program allows students to begin formulating an answer to the lifelong question, “What makes a good leader and how can I be a good leader in my own life?”
Program/Text:
American Nation, Prentice Hall, 1994.
Units of Study:
Unit 1: Facing History and Ourselves: Understanding Intolerance
Unit 2: Colonization in Americas
Unit 3: The Road to Revolution
Unit 4: The American Revolution
Unit 5: The Origins of American Democracy and the Founding Documents
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