Biography

Social Sciences 7

The course emphasizes critical reading, writing, speaking, and study skills. Students practice the application of academic skills across the curriculum as they learn critical thinking and writing through discussions, debates, and simulations; active reading and note-taking; and library research. Students are encouraged to examine beneath the surface and develop their analytical thinking skills through collaborative activities, interactive simulations, active reading, written work, and class discussions. In addition, this course actively contributes to the seventh grade interdisciplinary goals of developing study skills, honing organization and time management, resilience, and practicing mutual respect and tolerance through collaborative learning.

Throughout the course of the school year, the seventh-grade Social Sciences class will focus on world history and social justice. Students will learn about social, cultural, and technological change throughout world history. We will also read and examine A Different Mirror (for Young People) by Ronald Takaki. Current events are covered throughout the year as well. Lastly, the seventh-grade culminating project, the MOVE project, integrates problem-solving, research, and presentation skills across the core classes. MOVE is an acronym that stands for, “Motivate, Overcome, Voice, and, Empower.” Students are asked to research a modern national problem and create an oral presentation of their findings. 

Students examine the impact of geography on civilization, discuss the interaction between people and the environment, and learn to make connections between history and the world today. Essays and a research paper enhance writing skills, and students work with books, primary sources, maps, political cartoons, and periodicals that broaden their reading comprehension. Technology skills are learned and applied throughout the year.