Social Studies

Teachers:

Ms. Mazur   (6th Grade)
Mr. Paliotta  (7th Grade)
Ms. Padilla  (8th Grade) 

At Mott Hall III, we follow the New York State Social Studies Core Curriculum.  Students deepen their knowledge within five standards of social studies instruction: history, geography, economics, government, and civics.  Through these standards, they learn about the people and events throughout history and from all parts of the globe that have shaped our world today.

In sixth grade Social Studies, students will learn about world geography, history, and cultures, with a focus on ancient Greece, Rome, Egypt, and China, and African, Indian, European, and Middle Eastern cultures.  An interdisciplinary unit on Ancient Egypt will allow students to bring that era to life though dramatic performances of character monologues.

In seventh and eighth grade Social Studies, students will learn about the history of the North America and the United States, from prehistoric civilizations to the modern day. Students will examine historic decisions with a critical eye, exploring essential questions such as What responsibilities does the government have to its citizens? and When should a country participate in a war?

In each grade, students will show their knowledge through projects that assess their critical thinking, content knowledge, and literacy skills.  These common assessments include document-based question (DBQs) responses, compare and contrast essays, political cartoons, as well as maps and timelines.  We expect everyone to give 110% effort on homework, classwork, tests, and projects. All students are expected to come to class prepared and ready to learn and participate in group and whole class discussions.