BJHS Social Studies Courses

Language Arts	Mathematics	Science	Social Studies	Visual Arts
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Social Studies

Sixth Grade

The sixth grade curriculum for social studies follows the Essential Learner Outcomes adopted by the school district. Teachers and students use grade level text, maps, videos, and other published material in order to achieve these ELO’s. Students are instructed in Law and Justice in Illinois, using a curriculum developed cooperatively by teachers and the Honorable Judge Charles Witte. Teachers incorporate field trips when appropriate, and make every effort to integrate the curriculum. A balanced curriculum is achieved by the judicious use of text, projects, community resources, and teacher creativity. Students will leave the sixth grade having received a well-rounded social science experience.

Geography (7th Grade)

Geography is the study of the location and distribution of natural and cultural environments on the surface of the earth. Skills for geography students are taught through the use of video tapes, films, maps, and grade-level textbooks. Minimum skills to be mastered include: orientation to maps and noting directions; locating places on maps; using scale and computing distance; interpreting map symbols; and comparing maps and making inferences.

Geography goals include student literacy, organization, and responsibility.

American History (8th Grade)

Eighth grade students study the history of our country beginning with European exploration. They gain an understanding and appreciation of the past and the present which helps them become better informed citizens. Students study and must pass an examination concerning the history and display of the flag, the Declaration of Independence, the U.S. Constitution, and the Illinois Constitution.