Seventh Grade Social Studies Syllabus 2010-2011 - Lake Harriet ...

Seventh Grade Social Studies Syllabus 2010-2011
Teacher: Debra Krawetz Subject: World Studies Room: 205
Textbooks: World Geography Today, History Alive: Ancient World & Medieval World
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever
has.” --Margaret Mead
COMMUNICATION: E-mail is the “best” way to reach me. I check phone messages once a day, and I’m also
available by appointment before or after school.
E-mail debra.krawetz@mpls.k12.mn.us
Voice Mail 612-668-9990
Office 612-668-3310
Website http://lakeharriet.mpls.k12.mn.us/Debra_Krawetz.html
WORLD STUDIES COURSE DESCRIPTION
W
ELCOME to Seventh Grade social studies! The focus this year is a study of the geography, history, and
culture of the different regions of the world. We will learn critical and historical thinking skills as we
explore geography’s role in shaping both ancient and modern civilizations. Through an ongoing study of global
news, we will examine how world events impact people’s daily lives across the world.
First Quarter, the students will participate in Global Classrooms, an international program designed to engage
students in simulations related to human rights, peacekeeping and sustainable development. We will also debate
issues related to the Minnesota gubernatorial race and mid-term election in November. Second and Third Quarter
there will be an emphasis on National History Day; students will receive information packets in mid November.
This year’s theme is, “Debate and Diplomacy in History: Successes, Failures & Consequences.” Fourth Quarter we will
delve into a unit on the First Amendment and read the novel by Avi titled, “Nothing But the Truth.” Class
assignments and homework this year involve map-work, reflective writing, research projects, primary source
analysis, presentations, historical simulations, Paideia seminars and current events discussions.
I look forward to a rich year of learning with you. –Ms. Krawetz
SEVENTH GRADE SOCIAL STUDIES CURRICULUM MAP
Quarter I:
Introduction to Human Geography
Mesoamerica: The Incas, Aztecs & Mayans
Civics Unit -- The Mid-term election
Global Classrooms
Current Events
Quarter III:
Asia Today
Ancient China
History Day projects due late February
History Day Parent Night – Early March
Current Events
SEMESTER I
SEMESTER II
Quarter II:
Africa Today & Ancient African Civilizations
History Day begins in mid November
Civics Unit -- The Mid-term election
Global Classrooms
Current Events
Quarter IV:
Europe Today
Ancient Greece and Rome
First Amendment Unit
Novel: Nothing But the Truth, by Avi
Current Events

SEVENTH GRADE SOCIAL STUDIES SYLLABUS
SUPPLIES
• 3-ring binder and (5) dividers
• 1 Spiral notebooks
• A Package colored pencils for map work
• A pencil case and manual pencil sharpener
• A highlighter for note taking
• USB flash drive *Optional but highly recommended
GRADING INFORMATION
Middle School Schedule
Per. 1: 9:40-10:35
Advisory: 10:35-10:50
Per. 2: 10:50-11:45
Per. 3: 11:45-12:40
Per. 4: 12:40-2:15
Per. 5: 2:15-3:10
Per. 6: 3:10-4:07
Dismissal: 4:10
Seventh Grade Lunch – 12:40 pm
LH Grading Scale
92-100 A
90-91 A-
88-89 B+
82-87 B
80-81 B-
78-79 C+
72-77 C
70-71 C-
68-69 D+
62-67 D
60-61 D-
0-59 NP
Social Studies Grading Categories
Tests, Quizzes and Projects 25%
Notebook and Daily Work 25%
Homework Assignments 25%
Active Daily Participation and Preparedness 25%
Total 100%
LATE WORK DEDUCTIONS POLICY
Twenty percent (20%) from the earned grade will be
deducted if a homework assignment is 1 day late; thirty
(30%) if 2 days late; and forty percent (40%) if 3 days
late. After 3 days, late work will not be accepted. No
“late work” is accepted on major class projects.
HOMEWORK GUIDELINES
1. Assignment due dates will be written
in agenda books.
2. One extra day per absence will be given to
complete homework if you are sick or away
for a family emergency.
3. Work will be printed neatly on lined paper or
typed in size 12-14 font; please skip lines or
double space your typing.
4. Proof spelling and grammar.
5. All work must be in your “own words.” No
credit will be given for work copied from
another student or plagiarized from a book or
website. No “Google-Patching.”
6. E-mail submissions of homework will not be
accepted; you must bring a paper copy of
homework to class.
NOTE: Only under extenuating circumstances will exceptions to the late
work policy be made; please speak with Ms. Krawetz.
NOTEBOOK GUIDELINES
A notebook is a reflection of effort put forth toward daily
class work. Do your best to follow these guidelines:
1. Bring your notebook to class daily.
2. Date each page at the top right.
3. Write legibly in “pencil.”
4. Use consecutive pages; do
not skip around.
5. Write on “both” sides of
paper.
6. Never rip out pages