Social Studies

Building on their knowledge of North American geography and peoples, students learn about the history of the colonies, the early Republic, the expansion of the United States, the growing sectional conflicts of the 19th century, and the Civil Rights Movement of the mid-20th century.

Students will practice making claims, providing evidence, and explaining one’s reasoning. Students will learn the difference between the Paleolithic and Neolithic Ages and explore how the invention of farming changed the world.  Students will learn what civilizations are, how they developed in different parts of the world, and how they were often interconnected. In the second half of the year, they will be exploring the great early civilizations of northern Africa, the Middle East and Latin America. Lastly, students will spend some time learning about the world’s major monotheistic religions: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.

The main focus of our class will be ancient civilizations and geography.  Students will review what civilizations are, how they developed in different parts of the world, and how they were often interconnected.  Included in our study will be India, China, Japan, Korea, parts of Oceania, Greece, and Rome. We will also explore how geography influenced early settlement and how it continues to influence these areas of the world even in modern times. Our enduring understanding for this course is the ancient world’s legacy today.

Students study United States and Massachusetts Government and Civic Life.  Students study the roots and foundations of U.S. democracy, how and why it has developed over time, and the role of individuals in maintaining a healthy democracy. The accelerated course moves at a faster pace and dives deeper into the Civics Engagement project.