Social Studies
The four year curriculum for social studies introduces students to the world through work in the classroom, the library, and class trips. Through their first course in Fifth Grade, they discover continents beyond North America by focusing on geography and its impact on cultures. Students acquire skills in reading maps and texts, thinking critically, doing research, and sharing their knowledge orally and in writing.
In Sixth Grade, students study the foundations of western culture. They use primary and secondary sources, do research for projects, and share their understanding through discussions and written work. The focus of this course is on the characteristics of culture: government, religious practices, and the arts.
In Seventh Grade, students discover archaeology as a discipline. They dig at a site on our Butler campus which simulates a Whittlesey Indian site. Students expand their understanding of the importance of archaeology during a class trip to Jamestown, Virginia. Further studies develop their understanding of cultures in non-western regions of the modern world. Through classwork, research, and field trips, students explore cultures of East and South Asia as well as Africa.
Students end their Middle School social studies experience with a study of American history. Through research on contemporary topics that vary by year, they discover the role of the United States today in the world. The class trip highlights a critical theme for this role such as energy use and trade patterns. Students continue their studies with a chronological and thematic exploration of our country's history. Students develop their critical reading skills and analytical writing skills through class assignments. Throughout the four years, courses are integrated with science, English and arts courses whenever possible.
