Social Studies Curriculum Summary
“It is by a thorough knowledge of the whole subject that [people] are enabled to judge correctly of the past and to give a proper direction to the future.” James Monroe
Teacher: Ted Mohrbacher
Text:
7th Grade: History Alive! The Unites States Through Industrialism (TCI)
8th Grade: History Alive! The United States Through Modern Times (TCI)
The Washington Journey (Gibbs Smith Education)
The seventh and eighth grade social studies curriculum covers U.S. history, Current Events, Washington State History, and World Geography. This course will cover United States history from its pre-colonial period (circa 1492) to the present. In addition, the course deals extensively with learning how to read, understand, analyze and interpret a wide variety of both primary and secondary texts together with maps, graphs and pictorial materials associated with them. The course also aims to help students put the knowledge and understanding they are gaining into practice through sharpening their oral and written communication skills. The following is a general outline of the junior high social studies curriculum.
Course Objectives
The student will demonstrate:
- Knowledge of a basic narrative of American history; political, economic, social, and cultural, including knowledge of unity and diversity in American society.
- Knowledge of common institutions in American society and how they have affected different groups.
- Understanding of America’s evolving relationship with the rest of the world.
- Knowledge of the major events, ideas, trends, and problems in American history.
- An ability to explain how the past has shaped the present.
- An ability to think critically by analyzing and evaluating historical events and ideas in American history.
- An ability to question and rethink his/her preconceived notions regarding American history.
- An ability to evaluate historical research.
Washington State History– Washington State History requirements are integrated into the US history curriculum and are covered in both 7th and 8th grade. Standards not covered in class are included in a Washington State History Project during the 8th grade year.
Geography – Students will periodically work on maps or assignments to increase our awareness of the world around us.
Current Events – Students will work with newspapers and other media sources to stay informed and develop opinions on current issues in our world.
United States History Units
| Seventh Grade | Eighth Grade |
| – The Age of Exploration | – The Civil War |
| – Colonization | – Imperialism and Progressivism |
| – The American Revolution | – World War I |
| – The Constitution | – The Twenties &The Great Depression |
| – The New Nation | – World War II |
| – Industrial Revolution & Expansion | – The Cold War |
Class Expectations:
- Be respectful of your classmates.
- Always be prepared.
- Always pay attention.
- Participate.
Homework – You can expect one or occasionally two assignments a week that will often be assigned Monday or Tuesday and due Thursday or Friday. Many of your assignments will be assigned and handed in through Google Classroom.
Tests – Unit tests are given about every five weeks. You will receive a study guide at the beginning of every unit to map out the major concepts and terms. All homework, readings, class activities, projects, discussions… will cover material for the test. Don’t wait until the 4th week of the unit to start to study and make meaning of the material. I will always set the test date at least a week prior. It will be on the homework board and marked on your calendar in Google Classroom. Come see me for help if you have quaestions.
Your job is to show up prepared (reading completed, ready to participate in discussions/activities and take notes), prepared to analyze primary sources, to listen attentively, to respond thoughtfully to your peers, and to pose as many questions as you like.
I am often available during recess, study hall, or after school if you have questions or need help.