Eliot Middle School

Social Studies is the integrated study of history and social sciences that provides students with a foundation for understanding:

• Political institutions and systems

• Social and cultural perspectives

• Geography and spatial relationships

• Economic principles and systems

• Civic engagement and global citizenship

• Historical context and contemporary issues

Our Social Studies program aims to develop:

• Critical thinking: Analyzing information, evaluating evidence, and forming informed judgments.

• Problem-solving skills: Identifying issues, exploring solutions, and implementing strategies.

• Effective communication: Expressing ideas clearly and persuasively, both orally and in writing.

• Global awareness: Understanding diverse cultures, perspectives, and challenges.

• Civic responsibility: Participating actively in democratic processes and contributing to society.

Core Beliefs

• Social Studies examines the human condition, focusing on interactions between individuals and their environments.

• The program promotes integrity, responsibility, and ethical behavior.

• Students engage in authentic learning experiences, developing essential literacy skills.

• Meaningful and purposeful activities, both inside and outside the classroom, enhance learning.

• Students learn to effectively gather, process, and communicate information using a variety of technologies.

• Understanding diverse cultures fosters tolerance and acceptance.

• Community involvement enriches the learning experience.

Social Studies Learning Goals

By the end of their K-12 education, students will be able to:

1. Historical Understanding: Analyze historical events, trends, and figures to develop a comprehensive understanding of the past.

2. Global Awareness: Explore global issues, cultures, and perspectives to become informed citizens of the world.

3. Geographic Literacy: Understand spatial relationships, human-environment interactions, and the distribution of resources.

4. Civic Engagement: Participate actively in civic life and contribute to the betterment of society.

5. Economic Understanding: Analyze economic systems, decision-making, and the impact of economic choices.

6. Cultural Diversity: Appreciate and respect diverse cultures and perspectives.

Grade-Level Focus

Grade 5

• Early Exploration and Native American Cultures: Students will explore the voyages of early explorers and the diverse cultures of Native American tribes.

• Geographic Understanding: Students will develop a basic understanding of geographic concepts, such as location, place, human-environment interaction, movement, and region.

• Economic Concepts: Students will learn about basic economic principles, such as scarcity, choice, and opportunity cost.

Grade 6

• Early American History: Students will study the colonial period, the American Revolution, and the formation of the United States.

• Historical Inquiry: Students will develop historical thinking skills, such as chronological thinking, historical causation, and historical context.

• Civic Engagement: Students will explore the principles of American democracy and the role of citizens in a democratic society.

Grade 7

• World Cultures: Students will study the history, geography, and cultures of various world civilizations, including ancient civilizations, medieval Europe, and Islamic civilizations.

• Global Issues: Students will analyze global issues, such as poverty, inequality, and environmental challenges.

• Cultural Diversity: Students will appreciate the diversity of human cultures and the importance of cultural understanding.

Grade 8

• American History: Students will study the 19th and early 20th centuries, including westward expansion, the Civil War, industrialization, and reform movements.

• Historical Analysis: Students will analyze primary and secondary sources to develop critical thinking skills.

• Civic Engagement: Students will explore the role of citizens in a democratic society and the importance of civic participation.