Middle School Social Studies
The focus of Sixth Grade Social Studies is ancient civilization. Students study the people
and events of the major Western and non-western ancient civilizations. Ancient Africa is
an example of one of the topics we study in Sixth Grade. In this lesson, students learn
how civilizations developed under important pharaohs. The Sixth Grade curriculum also
includes the Rise of Christianity, which is a good connection to a number of our religion
lessons.
The Seventh grade curriculum covers medieval and early modern times. During the
course of the year, students read about Europe, Africa, and Asia. Among other topics,
students learn about Early Mesoamerican Civilizations, such as the Olmec and Mayan
Civilizations.
In Eighth Grade, the focus is the history of the United States, which includes European
Exploration, the establishment of the thirteen colonies, the American Revolution, creating
the Constitution, the Civil War, and Reconstruction.
Each lesson begins with an essential question, which helps students focus on important
information in the lesson. The material or content of social studies is presented in six
categories or themes: geography, culture, economics, government, belief systems and
science and technology.
Various activities are an important part of the social studies curriculum, such as making
posters, pyramids and masks. Students also enjoy playing mancala, a popular ancient
African game. In the past, the eighth grade class has taken a trip to the State Capitol in
Sacramento. Students in sixth grade take a field trip the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum in
San Jose.
Middle School Religion
In Sixth Grade, students take an in-depth look at the Old Testament. Lessons covered
include the story of Abraham and Moses. For Seventh Graders, the life, teachings and
ministry of Jesus are examined. In Eighth Grade, the history of the Church is explored
with the students to give them an understanding of how our Church has developed.
Our Religion curriculum is deeply rooted in Scripture. Each lesson includes passages
from the Bible. Students read passages daily and are given the opportunity to reflect on
the meaning of passages from the Bible. Students are also encouraged to incorporate
Bible teachings into their own lives. Prayer is an integral part of our program. Each
school day begins and ends with prayer. Students, teachers, and staff gather weekly for
communal prayer, which unites us more closely. All students in middle school participate
in Community Service, which allows them to use their God-given gifts and talents to help
others.
As in all grades, we implement conflict resolution and promote social-emotional learning
skills through the implementation of the Second Step Program. We also teach personal
safety through our Safe Environment for Children Program.