Grade 6

The sixth grade program examines human development from the Prehistoric Period through the Middle Ages. The year starts off with an in depth study of geography followed by a comparative study of the ancient civilizations of Mesopotamia, Egypt, China, Greece, Rome and Medieval Europe that helps students understand the influence of ancient people on our modern culture. Many of the units are interdisciplinary and cross-curricular in nature and are supported with numerous ‘hands-on’ activities and field trips.

In order to gain maximum benefit from the study of ancient civilizations, certain skills are focused upon within each unit. Identifying main ideas in a paragraph, outlining, note taking, map reading, cause and effect relations and fact/opinion differentiation are some of the skills that are introduced during the sixth grade to promote students’ reading and thinking skills.

Grade 7

The seventh grade program presents a chronological approach to the history of the United States through the Civil War. Topics of study include colonization, the American Revolution, the Constitution and the early presidents. Historical concepts are also applied to the current American experience. Individual research, group discussions, role-playing and cooperative learning are some of the experiences provided. Skills such as map reading, interpreting documents, the use and analysis of charts and graphs, and fact/opinion differentiation are reinforced in this course.

Grade 8

The eighth grade program is a continuation of the study of American history begun in seventh grade. The program is arranged chronologically, beginning with Reconstruction and ending at the present, and incorporates geography as well as economic, social, and political trends. The course content is divided into nine Key Ideas; the first seven trace the human experience in the United States from Reconstruction to the end of World War II. The last two Key Ideas examine different themes in United States and New York State history from the post-War period up to the present day, which provides the opportunity to explore contemporary issues.

The eighth grade program provides a variety of learning experiences including: individual and group research, literature, dramatic presentation, field trips, artwork, class discussions, cooperative learning, and the use of technology.

Many skills are focused on throughout the year. Students learn and practice identifying and expressing main ideas, supporting details, and cause and effect. Additional skills students work on are: outlining, notetaking, map and graph reading and interpretation, and distinguishing between fact and opinion. There is an extensive use of primary sources to develop students’ abilities to read, analyze, and evaluate.

Students will become more aware of their responsibilities as citizens in a participatory democracy.