6th Grade

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Sixth graders study World Culture and the development of civilizations throughout the ancient and Medieval periods in Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia, and the Americas. Students experience history through a wide variety of methods including investigations, simulations, and excavations. By employing hands-on, minds-on activities, students will be able to compare different cultures and, in turn, make meaningful connections to their own lives. Themes covered include civics, economics, and ethics.

 

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7th Grade

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Seventh graders engage in World Geography Studies, where students examine the relationships among people, places, and environments that result in patterns on the Earth’s surface. Students use the tools and methods of geography to study the principal regions in the world – the Americas; Europe and Eurasia; North Africa and the Middle East; Sub-Saharan Africa; South, East, and Southeast Asia. Students describe the influence of geography on events of the past and present and analyze how location affects economic activities in different economic systems throughout the world. Students compare how components of culture shape the characteristics of regions and analyze the impact of technology and human modifications on the physical environment. Students use problem-solving and decision-making skills to ask and answer geographic questions-- then, during the latter half of the school year, shift to an introduction to ancient civilizations.

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8th Grade

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Eighth graders focus on conflict and change in American society and political structures. This course examines American history through a cultural and social justice lens, examining the Constitution and human rights, migration, immigration, Native American cultures, slavery, and civil rights. Students learn how to investigate controversial issues with reason and objectivity with respect for their peers at the forefront of class discussions. Students bring history alive as they explore the origins of the United States, including its history, geography, culture, government, economics, and politics. Students learn the skills of a historian as they investigate historical questions by employing strategies such as sourcing, contextualizing, corroborating, and close reading. They will also explore the structure of the American government and learn the importance of citizenship and how citizens participate in the government.