Middle School Social Studies

Middle School Social Studies

Welcome to Middle School Social Studies! This year, students will explore history, geography, civics, and government through engaging activities designed to build understanding and critical thinking skills. Instruction includes interactive notebooks, guided notes, projects, readings, and unit assessments. Together, these activities help students actively engage with content and develop a deeper understanding of the world around them.

6th Grade

In 6th grade, students build a strong foundation in world history and geography. The year begins with basic geographic skills, including map reading and understanding physical and human geography, and then explores prehistory and early human societies. Students study major civilizations and eras such as River Valley Civilizations, Ancient Greece, Ancient Rome, the Byzantine Empire, Classical Asia, the Middle Ages, and civilizations of Mesoamerica and Africa. Throughout the year, students examine how geography, culture, government, technology, and belief systems shaped societies and influenced the modern world.

7th Grade

In 7th grade, students focus on early modern and modern world history, exploring how ideas, technology, and power shaped societies. The year begins with the Renaissance and Reformation, followed by the Age of Exploration and the rise of absolute monarchs. Students then study the French Revolution, nationalism, the Industrial Revolution, imperialism, World War I, the Russian Revolution and interwar period, and World War II. Students analyze how historical events, ideas, and movements connect and continue to influence the modern world.

8th Grade

In 8th grade, students focus on Early American History, exploring the foundations and development of the United States. The year begins with the 13 Colonies and the American Revolution, followed by the creation of the Constitution and the formation of the new nation. Students continue with Early America, the Era of Jackson, Manifest Destiny, Sectionalism, the Civil War, Reconstruction, and the Gilded Age, examining how government, geography, economy, and society interacted to shape the United States.