Social studies education is vital at the middle school grade levels for students to learn and hone the skills needed to become critical thinkers.  Utilizing an interdisciplinary approach, the social studies curriculum educates students on how to view issues from different perspectives of society and reflects a consciousness of current world events.  By adopting this global perspective, the courses will promote an understanding of human interaction, cultural diversity, cultural heritage.  The three-year curriculum equips students with the knowledge and understanding of the past, essential for explaining the present and planning for the future.

Commencing in the sixth grade and continuing through the seventh grade, students acquire the historical, cultural, and political understanding of the foundation and growth of Western, African, and Eastern civilizations.  Through research and writing assignments, interactive learning exercises, debates, and presentations, students gain a solid grasp of these societies so that they may better interpret and analyze the underpinnings of our current global environment.

During the eighth grade year, students apply their analytical skills to studying the formative history of the United States.  Students study the concepts of freedom, liberty, citizenship, and democracy in order to understand the people and principles that have contributed to United States history.  The course includes an in-depth study of the American Revolution and the development of the United States under the Constitution.  The course also addresses the study of American civics, including the rights and responsibilities of citizenship, participation, and representation.  Note taking, essay writing, research, and debate skills are honed in this course in order to provide students with the skills necessary for a successful transition to high school.

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