Social Studies

Mr. Aronberg

daronberg@ladueschools.net - email address

 

SOCIAL STUDIES COURSE OVERVIEW

Sixth grade social studies students study the Classical Ancient civilizations of the Eastern Hemisphere (Mesopotamia, Egypt, India, China, Greece and Rome). Students will start with a study of Culture and Stone Age moving on with a thematic approach of understanding the six major themes that make up a civilization (Geography, religion, achievements, politics, economics and social structures).  Various techniques will be used to enhance the curriculum. Simulations, hands-on activities, Differentiated Instruction and Thoughtful Education learning strategies will be used to complement student learning styles. Interdisciplinary lessons will allow social studies content to be combined with other disciplines’ skills and content in order to reflect a more holistic and realistic framework for learning.

 

COURSE OBJECTIVES / ENDURING UNDERSTANDINGS

• Students will understand geography is the most influential factor in how a civilization develops.    

• Students will understand that religions are more alike than different.

• Students will understand a civilization’s lasting legacy is based on its achievements. 

• Students will understand people develop systems to manage conflict and create order.

• Students will understand that societies make distinctions between the things that they need and the things that they want. 

• Students will understand that social structure heavily influences aspects of one’s life.

 

MATERIALS AND INSTRUCTIONAL ACTIVITIES

•   World History: Ancient Civilizations, Holt, Rinehart, Winston (textbook)

• My World Interactive: World History, Pearson (textbook)

•   History Alive!  The Ancient World, TCI (textbook)

•   History Alive materials 

•   Variety of History Channel videos, educational videos, and educational movies

 

ACADEMIC AND CITIZENSHIP EXPECTATIONS

Students are expected to come to class on time each day with the appropriate materials (charged iPad, pencils, planner).  Homework and class work should be on time. Students are expected to participate in class discussions, complete all assigned work, study for tests, and work cooperatively with one another. This follows the Middle School Expectations of being Prompt and Prepared, Positive, Polite, and Productive. Citizenship grades will be given at least bi-weekly. 

 

STUDENT OUTCOMES / ASSESSMENT

Student achievement is assessed by written work, participation in discussions, group work, oral presentations, performance on tests, and completion of projects. Grades will be weighted with 60% of the total grade based on summative assessments and 40% based on formative assessments. Students will be given a study guide for all unit tests.  Retake procedures will follow the handbook guidelines. Students will have opportunities for extra assistance during middle school skills and before or after school with prior notification. 

 

HOMEWORK AND LATE WORK POLICY

Homework will be assigned several times per week to reinforce classroom instruction and check for understanding of daily lessons. Students are expected to complete all assignments on time. However, if a student fails to complete an assignment, privileges will be affected.  Late homework needs to be submitted within a reasonable amount of time after the due date and before the end of the unit. Some work requires timely submission for learning to occur and is subject to exception. Extenuating circumstances will be dealt with on an individual basis.

 

I look forward to working with your child this year.  Please feel free to contact me at daronberg@ladueschools.net with any questions or concerns.