February Update!

SOCIAL STUDIES

7th Graders: The seventh graders have finished their study of the Transcontinental Railroad and the events that transpired as the Western Frontier was settled. In addition, the key ideas of how the railroad changed the United States forever as well as the lives of the Native Americans in the country were discussed and the ideas challenged by the students. Now the students will begin the Unit on the Industrial Revolution. Within this unit we will cover the success of Andrew Carnegie and John D. Rockefeller. Furthermore, we will look at the key ideas of how the country changed from agriculture to manufacturing and how industry was born. Finally, we will cover the concept of a monopoly, how they are created, and why they are now illegal in this country. This Unit should enlighten the students on how we have arrived at the type of country we are now and how important the role of tariffs are in the import and export of countries around the world.

8th Graders: The eighth graders finally finished all the components of the American Revolution, including the major battles of the War, and the important people who were key players in the United Sates gaining our independence. As a class we are beginning our Unit on the Constitution of The United States. So, a shift to government as we look at how our founding fathers came up with the principles like Federalism, Democracy, and the separation of powers in government. The study of the Constitution will allow the students to gain perspective on why the Constitution is known as the Supreme Law of Our Land. When we finish with this Unit we will take a look at the rise of Totalitarianism in Europe. I am sure the students will enjoy the coverage of our new studies. Good Luck to all!