Social Studies 7

Beginning in seventh grade, a two-year study of American History is initiated. The Social Studies 7 course is a chronological exploration of American History from the pre-Columbian era through the period of Reconstruction. 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. As part of this program, specialized social studies skills are taught. They include the following:

• reading maps, charts, and graphs F. computer / technology skills

• interpreting political cartoons G. study skills

• reading, speaking, and listening skills H. analyzing primary source documents

• essay writing I. analyzing current events

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

The teaching of lifelong skills is an important part of the social studies program.

Social Studies 8

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 Interdependent World,” The United Between the Wars,” Worldwide Responsibilities,” and “World War II to the Present.” Students are involved in the historical, social, geographic, political, and economic themes as they relate to the people and events of this time period. Also, in the spring of eighth grade, students will take the NYS Social Studies Assessment. The teaching of specialized social studies skills continues in eighth grade and will include the following:

• reading maps, charts, and graphs F. computer / technology skills

• interpreting political cartoons G. study skills

• reading, speaking, and listening skills H. analyzing primary source documents

• essay writing I. analyzing current events

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