In social studies the students in 7th and 8th grade will
explore the United States and New York State beginning with the settlement of
North America by Native Americans and ending with an examination of the United
States in the 21st century. This is a
two year course where students will also build skills and content from
geography, politics, economy, and culture into the study of history.
Grade 8 social studies:
The students will explore the early 20th century and end at present
day. The students will study nine key
ideas which also incorporate geography as well as economic, social and
political trends. Below are the key
ideas, description of topic, and some activities. More details will be given on each topic and
project throughout the school year.
Changing Society and Progressive Era- causes of urbanization of America and
reforms
Expansion and Imperialism- westward expansion and more
aggressive United States foreign policy
- * Geography of Pacific islands and nations
World War I and Roaring Twenties- causes and effects of the
war. * Trench warfare model
Great Depression- Economic and environmental disasters in
the 1930s.
World War II- aggression of the Axis powers threatened US
security and led to war.
Foreign Policy – communism, Cold War, Middle East
conflicts.
Demographic changes – changing population after WW II
Civil Rights Movement- equality for all
After the Cold War era to present day- causes and effects of
the Cold War, Conflicts in the Middle East
Grade 7 social studies:
The content will be divided into eight key ideas tracing the human
experience in the United States from pre-Columbian times until the Civil
War. Below are the key ideas and some
activities. More details will be given
on each topic and project throughout the school year.
Native Americans – environment influenced the development of
the first human settlements and the culture of Native American (Dwelling
project)
Colonial Developments -
European exploration resulted in interactions and colonization of Native
Americans
American Independence- explore the causes and effects of the
American Revolution
Historical Development of the Constitution- United States
struggled to create a powerful but fair government
The Constitution in Practice- how the government works and
responds to political and social change
Westward Expansion- the United States expanded its
boundaries to the Pacific Ocean.
Reform Movements – study social, political, and economic
inequalities sparked reform movements
A Nation Divided- causes and effects of the Civil War
*Reviewing
for finals