The 7^th Grade Social Studies course is a survey of American history beginning with the colonization of the Americas and ending in the 1865 with the Civil War. It is designed to help students understand how and why particular events and patterns of events occurred in our society. The course will enable students to understand the geographic, political and economic developments that affect currents events.

Course Expectations: Students are expected to develop their writing skills, to complete all reading assignments, and to begin the process of historical analysis critical to understanding and interpreting the past. Students are expected to come to class prepared and to complete assignments on time.

Curriculum:

•     Exploring the Americas
•     Colonial America
•     Growth of the Thirteen Colonies
•    The Spirit of Independence
•    The American Revolution
•     A More Perfect Union
•    The Federalist Era
•    The Jefferson Era
•     Growth and Expansion
•    The Jackson Era
•     Manifest Destiny
•     North and South
•     The Age of Reform
•     Toward the Civil War

Textbook: The American Journey published by Glencoe. We will also use a variety of other resources including slides, videos, games, simulations, guest speakers, plays, novels and songs.

The following list represents some of the skills that will be incorporated into the study of American History this year:

1.     Reading political cartoons
2.     Using eyewitness accounts
3.     Reading and interpreting maps
4.     Constructing and interpreting a timeline
5.     Identifying immediate and long-range causes
6.     Making generalizations based on facts
7.     Understanding cause and effect
8.     Identifying a point of view
9.     Recognizing and interpreting propaganda
10. Organizing and presenting an oral report

Homework is assigned every night and is due the next day. Students will earn full credit for assignments that are complete and on time. The grade on an assignment handed in in the next class period will be lowered by 50%.  Any homework handed in after that time will earn no credit.

Extra Help: By appointment (After School)

My grading policy is:  40% for Tests/Projects

                                   20% for Quizzes

                                   20% for Homework

                                   15% for Classwork

                                     5% for Participation/Preparedness                                  

I look forward to the many challenges and learning experiences that lay ahead of us as we journey through a fun filled school year. Students should come to this class with a positive attitude along with a hunger for learning. I will challenge them to do their best and be there to help when they need guidance. I’m the type of teacher that will always welcome questions from my students, so students should never be afraid to ask for help, and or to get clarification on something that they may not fully understand. Remember I’m here to gladly assist and help!

Sincerely,

Mr. Mayo