Classroom Information
8th Grade Social Studies Description:
This subject is an exploration into the birth and development of America with special focus on the geography, economy, government, military, foreign affairs and the people who helped to shape the new nation. The class will begin with a look at Colonial America and the events that lead to revolution and independence from England. Students will examine the United States Constitution and the major debates that helped to shape the young Republic. Students will study Westward Expansion and the effects it had on Native Americans, the land and other nations. We will look at the causes and main events that lead to the American Civil War.
8th GradeReligion Description:
This year’s religion course focuses on the chronological growth of the Church from before Christ up to His birth and into modern times.
7th Grade Social Studies Description:
The 7th grade year is a study of world history and geography during the medieval and early modern eras. Students study the development and changes of complex civilizations. They identify and explore the similarities and patterns of these civilizations. Emphasis is placed on the fact that many of the civilizations developed concurrently and impacted each other. All units include an examination of the impact of religion, economics, politics, and social history on the medieval and early modern eras. The Five Themes of Geography (location, movement, region, place, and human-environmental interaction) are woven into all the units, with emphasis on how geography affected the development of these civilizations.
7th GradeReligion Description:
This year’s religion course focuses on Jesus and his times, learning more about Jesus’ life and the New Testament. We will begin the course by going in depth on what Catholics believe and parts of the Bible. We will then focus on Jesus’ times and ministry, analyzing each of the four Gospels, as well as various parables. We will learn about the true meaning of prayer and worship, focusing on the Sacraments and living out Jesus’ teachings. We will also celebrate and learn about various Catholic feast days and the many saints/holy people who have contributed greatly to the Church.
6th Grade Social Studies Description:
The 6th grade year is a study of ancient world history and geography. Students study the development of world civilizations in the Eastern Hemisphere, beginning with Early Humankind and the Neolithic Revolution through the development of the first major civilizations. All units include an examination of the impact of economics, politics, and social history on the developing world. The five themes of geography (location, movement, region, place, and human-environmental interaction) are woven into all the units, with emphasis on how geography affected the development of these civilizations.
6th Grade Religion Description:
This year’s religion course focuses on developing our faith through a spiral curriculum based on four pillars: What Catholics believe; How Catholics Worship, How Catholics Live; How Catholics Pray.
Junior High Family Life:
Family Life will begin during the Second Trimester. With permission from the parent(s)/guardians(s), this course will discuss human sexuality through a Catholic perspective. Students will develop the skills and knowledge they need to live a healthy and holy life within their family and community for now and in the future.
Writing in Social Studies and Religion:
In preparation for high school, ALL major essays are required to follow MLA format. This means that the paper must have a proper heading and be typed (double spaced, 12pt. Times New Roman font). All students will save their work using Google docs. It is the student’s responsibility to type, print, and/or email papers prior to the assigned due date.
Art Description:
The students will create art for the purpose of developing and expressing ideas, exploring imaginative and symbolic ideas. Students will use historical/professional examples of art to produce, discuss, and write about their own art and/or that of other artists.
Homework/Homework Policy:Students are expected to study their Social Studies and Religion notes on a daily basis. Occasionally, students will be assigned projects and /or other activities related to the topics discussed in either Social Studies or Religion. These assignments are for enrichment, exercise, practice, and review. Other assignments may include work that was not completed in class. I will allow time during each class period to have students’ to review the directions and expectations.
Late Work Policy:
Late work will be accepted if it is turned in within the trimester it was assigned. Please ensure that you do not let late work build up as it will eventually affect your grade and study habits. It is very important that students turn in assignments as close to the assigned date.
Plagiarism/Academic Integrity
Academic integrity is expected on all assignments. Plagiarism is defined as presenting the work of another as one’s own. Cheating on an assignment or assessment is another activity that violates ethics and school rules. Any work that exhibits cheating/plagiarism will result in a zero, parental notification, and disciplinary action may be taken.
Grading Policy:
All grades will be percentage based and calculated per trimester.
Graded assignments are broken into three categories:
Exams 50%
Projects/ Class Presentations 30%
Homework/Classwork/Participation 20%