Clear Expectations
Welcome letter
7th Grade
Social Studies
Dear Parents and Guardians,
Welcome to grade 7 Social Studies. This year we will be studying the history of the United States, from the Age of Exploration to the Civil War of 1860.
Clear Expectation
Overview
The first unit of study will be the Age of Exploration and Colonial Development followed by the American Revolution. In this unit we will look at the events, ideas leading to the American Revolution, and also the major political figures in the War for Independence.
Following the Revolutionary War the next unit of study will be, Creating the New Government and the Constitution. This unit focus on the need for effective government and leadership, which concentrates on the historical roots of democracy and republican government, the Articles of Confederation, and the Constitutional Convention and ratification debate. The most important emphasis in this unit is on the Constitution and the Bill of Rights, followed by the challenges of the early Republic, such as the formation of political parties.
The next unit of study focuses on growth and change in the New Nation. The students will learn about the identity of a growing nation, and about the role of the U.S. in the world. We will study the West, Manifest Destiny and the changing world of Native Americans.
This unit also focuses on the North-east with its inventions "The Nation in Crisis, The Civil War and Reconstruction." This unit concentrates on the background and causes of the Civil War, the economic, political and sectional conflict in the country, and then the growth of reform movements, with an emphasis on the anti-slavery movement. This follows a unit on the progress and consequences of the Civil War and, finally, the preservation of the Union and the effects of Reconstruction.
Current Events
We will use magazines, such as the Junior scholastic. Students will be directed to specific websites to access current events and articles.
Evaluation
Homework will be based on what topic is being covered in class. Projects, journal, test and quizzes will be a major part of their grade. Points will be deducted for work handed in late.
Grading Policy
Assessments 30%
- Quizzes
- Culminating Activity / Projects
- Benchmark Exams
- Presentations
- Performance Task
- Formal Writing
- Document Based Questions (DBQ)
Homework 10%
- text book activities
- Castile learning activities
- Current event activities
- Some collected for grading
- Some will be checked for completion
Learning Activities. 60%
- Do Now
- Exit Ticket
- Group Activity
- Independent Learning Activities
- Classwork, Discussions and presentations
Unit 1 Age of exploration and Colonial development.
Learning Targets:
1.I can identify the skills of a Historian using primary and secondary sources.
2. I can examine what the world was like before 1492.
3. I can examine what are the different theories of migration and settlement in North America.
4.I can investigate the legacy and contributions of the civilizations in Mesoamerica.
5. I can examine what were the characteristics of indigenous cultures prior to European exploration.
6. I can investigate how Portugal took the lead in Early Explora
7. I can analyze the impact Christopher Columbus voyage had on the Native Americans
8. I can identify the negative and positive effects of the Columbian exchange.
9. I can analyze how different European groups tried to find a North west Passage.
10. I can evaluate compare indentured servitude and slavery in the Americas.
Mini Unit 2: Colonial America
10. I can learn how Jamestown survived and developed as a colony in the New World
11. I can research how the Middle Colonies were formed.
12. I can research the development of American democracy based on its historical influences.
13 I can examine the origins of early government in the colonies.
14.I can compare the development of the Middle, Southern and New England
Students Expectations
- Abide by the School rules
- Be respectful
- Follow procedures
- Complete all assignments
- Keep a clean environment
Take ownership of Your Learning
- Visit weebly homework page as often as necessary
- View the resources in each unit study as needed
- Take appropriate notes in class
- Come to class prepared
Communication
Communication is a vital link between student , teacher and parents to ensure productive learning. I will endeavor to keep you well informed through the use of this website. Also feel free to contact me if there is anything pertaining to your child’s progress in school.
I can be contacted at Middle School office at 718- 904 5600.
My e-mail is [email protected].
Supplies
1 note book - classwork
Loose leaf and binder for homework
Pens
Pencils
Attendance
If a student is absent work will be accepted late with no penalty . If there are circumstances that require extended absence, please inform me and I will send the work home.