Our Social Studies program puts the world in the hand of students as they explore artifacts, maps, models and cultures of the world. Each grade level studies geography and world cultures. Students discover the integration between humans and the biological, physical, economic, and social world. The Early Elementary years are devoted to community and culture. Young students learn to locate themselves in time and space. They explore the interaction of peoples and their natural biome. They examine the concepts of shelter, food, transportation, culture and clothing across time and place.
The Middle Elementary years continue to exploration of culture and geography. The curriculum begins to transform to the exploration of government and history. Social Studies activities include current events, literature study, research, note taking, presentations and study trips. Students continue to connect their studies to the world around them.
The Upper Elementary years begin to study cultures in conflict as they look at the political overlay on the natural biomes of the world. Students become adept at investigating the world locally and globally through the lens offered by history, economics, politics and sociology as they continue to explore the complexities of culture.
The Cooper School will follow National standards set by the National Curriculum Standards of Social Studies. Social Studies will implement a modified Humanities approach and integrate with Reading and Writing when possible. Social Studies will also be the Core Curricula area in which most Projects are ignited. Social Studies goals include:
- Understanding cultural concepts
- Understanding the theme of time, continuity and change
- Understanding the role of power, authority and government
- Understanding the role of geography and environment on culture
- Understanding the interconnectedness of people, groups and institutions
- The implementation of research methodology, including citations in reporting
Grade 6 students will study Ancient Civilizations and the Essential Question: Who am I and What is My Voice? Students will explore this essential questions over the course of the year, while examining the geography, history, religion, governments and culture of a variety of Ancient Civilization. Students will learn how to evaluate sources, write analytically and present in various modes.
In Seventh Grade, students will explore American History and the Essential Question: What is our American Identity and is their Justice for All? Through deep dives into relevant moments in US history, students will examine events through the lens of power, and explore how power is constructed and protected. Students will ground their exploration through America’s founding documents, and work to understand what it means to be “We the People.” Students will address these topics, and explore issues involving identity, civil liberties, and civil rights through the exploration of primary and secondary sources.
Eighth graders will explore the 20th century world and their own roles as advocates by exploring the Essential Question “How does Societal Change happen?” A study of the Industrial Revolution will set the stage for a further study of different political, social and economic shifts that are brought about through imperialism, decolonization, nationalism before World War II and the Cold War era. Through readings, discussions, simulations, research and analytical writing, students will examine how societal change creates complex impacts, and how social and political advocates seek to address resulting injustices. Either graders will use this research to compose a research based term paper.