Ever play golf? You know, the game where you have to get the little white ball into the little hole in the ground? Well, if you are like me, it takes more than a few shots to accomplish that goal. But, no matter if my ball is in the bushes or under a tree, I always know where to aim because I look for the little white flag.

Here are your “little white flags” for Social Studies. They should always keep you on track and help you know what to aim for.

1. History: I can describe the historical accomplishments ancient civilizations are known for.
• I will accomplish this goal by using primary and secondary sources to form interpretations of important historical events.

Examples of evidence for this goal: Document-Based Question, primary source analysis, Inspiration diagrams, timelines, huaka’i research and podcasts just to name a few

2. Culture: I can describe how knowing a people’s values and beliefs helps to understand them better.
• I will accomplish this goal by describing cultural change over time.
• I will accomplish this goal by explaining the past on its own terms; not judging it by modern-day values and norms.
• I will accomplish this goal by explaining how all cultures have specific traits that impact the behavior and practices of the people within that culture.

Examples of evidence for this goal: Document-Based Question, primary source analysis, Inspiration diagrams, podcasts, textbook review, and huaka’i research

3. Geography: I can demonstrate how the physical geography of an area affects the growth and development of societies around the world.
• I will accomplish this goal by locating and identifying countries that make up major world regions and describe the characteristics of that particular region.

Examples of evidence for this goal: sheppard software, region reviews, geography quizzes and tests, textbook review

Always keep the “flag” out ahead of you and you’ll know where to aim.

 

Topics of Study:  Primarily, students will be studying modern geography of the world and the ancient civilizations of Mesopotamia, Egypt, India, China, Greece and Rome.

Daily Agenda:  A class blog is a very helpful tool for students and parents.  It will feature a day-to-day outline of the content and activities addressed in Social Studies.  The blog can be used as a way to keep up with daily classwork and homework assignments.  It is updated daily by the teacher and can be accessed from the middle school homepage (http://hawaii.ksbe.edu/middle/) or http://blogs.ksbe.edu/amkaawal/ . 

Evaluation:
A student’s grade will be determined by:

1. Classwork (25%)
2. Homework (25%)  Given daily and expected to be turned in on the due date.  Failure to do so will result in parent notification via the student agenda planner.
3. Participation (10%)  Students will be given many opportunities to contribute positively in class.  These contributions will not go unnoticed.
4. Exams (20%)  These will consist of periodic quizzes and tests.
5.  Projects /Document-Based Questions (20%) Students can expect technology-based projects at least once a trimester.  Students will also be actively engaged in the writing process.  Specifically, students will use expository writing to explain process, cause and effect and/or solutions to a problem.

 Required Texts and Supplies: 

            World Studies-The Ancient World    ($30.00 replacement fee if lost or damaged beyond repair)

            World Studies-The Ancient World Reading and Vocabulary Study Guide (consumable)

            Geography:  The World and Its People    ($55.00 replacement fee if lost or damaged beyond repair)

• Except for the reading and vocabulary guide, each student will be issued one text of each title specifically for home use.  These texts will be used for homework and will need to be returned at the end of the year.  Please keep your textbook covered, clean, dry and free from any other damage.  

Each student is expected to bring a pencil, pen (blue or black) and folder paper to class everyday.           

Each student will also be expected to use the student agenda planner to record assignments daily.

 Use of Technology:

Students will be using Apple laptops and Apple related software throughout their 6^th grade experience.  It would be helpful to have Internet access at home.  If none can be provided, please make arrangements to use the computer before, during or after school.

Procedures when absent:

If students are absent, it is their responsibility to check the class blog ( http://blogs.ksbe.edu/amkaawal ) for the agenda and assignments for day(s) absent. The front of the classroom has a shelf with handouts or worksheets missed. 

 

Need Help?

I am available every morning recess for individual tutoring. On most days, I am also available after school as well.  You may email me at amkaawal@ksbe.edu or call my classroom at 982-0439.