MS History/ Literature
MIDDLE SCHOOL HISTORY/LITERATURE
Ancient World History
Grade 6 History:
Sixth Grade History begins with an extensive study of Map Skills that will be utilized continually through Middle School grades. The class then begins a study of early civilizations of the world, including but not limited to Mesopotamia, Egypt, India, China, Greece, Rome. The year continues with a study of the Middle Ages and the Renaissance years. The concept that there is a definite connection between ancient history and current events is introduced and explored. Students learn note taking skills from lectures, and complete group and individual projects.
Skills utilized in class:
Analyzing Primary and Secondary Resources
Using Timelines
Reading Tables
Making Valid Generalizations
Drawing Conclusions
Comparing and Contrasting
Identifying Cause and Effect
Textbook Used: History of Our World - Early Ages
Publisher -Pearson/ Prentice Hall
American History Part I
Grade 7 History:
Seventh Grade History begins a two year comprehensive study of American History. The class also completes an in-depth study of the Constitution. It is the intent of this class to continue to examine the concept that there is a relationship between events of the past and the present. This curriculum is presented through class lectures, role-playing, panel discussions, debates, research projects, and individual and group projects.
The topics covered in seventh grade are:
Great Migration
Native American Cultures
Exploration and Colonization
French and Indian War
Colonial Unrest and the Revolutionary War
Forming a New Republic
Constitution and Government
War of 1812
Westward Expansion
Reform during the 19th Century
Skills studied:
Analyzing Primary and Secondary Sources
Charts, Timelines, Graphs
Fact and Opinion
Distinguishing Between Cause and Effect
Identifying Main Ideas and Supporting Details
Synthesizing Information
Summarizing and Drawing Inferences
Comparing and Contrasting
Textbook used: The American Nation - Beginning to 1877
Publisher: Pearson / Prentice Hall
American History Part II
Grade 8 History:
Eighth Grade History complete the two-year comprehensive study of American History. In addition Map Skills are continuously reviewed and Current Events are discussed and studied on a regular basis. It is important for students to identify and understand the connection between events of the past with events occurring in the world today.
Topics covered in eighth grade:
Civil War and Reconstruction
Westward Expansion
Industrialization
The Growth of American Cities
Immigration Patterns
Populist and Progressive Era
Imperialism
World War I
The Roaring Twenties
The Great Depression and New Deal
World War II
Postwar Years and Era of Prosperity
Interdependence of World Countries
Korean Conflict
Civil Rights
Vietnam War
Skills Studied:
Analyzing Primary and Secondary Sources
Timelines, Charts and Graphs
Evaluating Written Sources and Internet Sources for Validity
Recognizing Propaganda
Identifying Historical Trends
Evaluating Long-Term Effects
Predicting Consequences
Determining Relevance
Analyzing Political Cartoons
Textbook used: The American Nation - Civil War to Present
Publisher: Pearson / Prentice Hall
Middle School Literature Grades 6,7,& 8
The Middle School Literature Program continues reading skills necessary to become a successful learner. A study of the elements and skills related to the understanding of literature is included. The elements of literature in short stories are introduced, developed, and mastered. The seventh grade also completes a study of non-fiction. All grades read novels to complement their studies, applying the skills learned from the text. Monthly book reports in various genres are also required.
Skills studied:
Plot development
Characterization
Theme
Point of View
Figurative language
Critical Thinking skills
Biography, Autobiography
Narrative, Reflective, Expository, Persuasive Essays
Climax / Resolution
Conflict
Irony
Novels read in Sixth Grade:
- The Egypt Game
- The Incredible Journey
- The Door in the Wall
Novels read in Seventh Grade:
- The Pearl
- Johnny Tremain
- Lyddie
- Homecoming
Novels read in Eighth Grade:
- Across Five Aprils
- Dicey’s Song
- Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry
- The Diary of Anne Frank
- To Kill a Mockingbird
Textbooks used:
Grade 6: Literature Copper edition
Publisher: Pearson/ Prentice Hall
Grades 7-8: Literature Silver Edition
Publisher: Pearson/ Prentice Hall