Gina Sipple
York Suburban Middle School
SOCIAL STUDIES 7A
Contact Information: Please contact me with any questions or concerns.
(717)755-2841
gsipple@yssd.org
Important Links
7th Grade Social Studies Moodle click on Sipple/Darrah History 7. Contact me for the enrollment key. The Moodle is a great resource for copies of worksheets and assignments, notes, presentations and links to resources.
Homework/Assignment Calendar The calendar shows daily activites and homework assigned. Students are still expected to utilize their school provided agenda as the main source and use this calendar as a backup.
Core 1 Calendar
Core 2-5 Calendar
Edmodo.com This site allows certain assignments to be completed online and handed in online.
Course Information
Course Overview
Seventh grade World History will focus on the time periods from the Beginnings to the 1500s. An introductory unit on Ancient Civilizations will be explored. Units of study will include: Africa, Middle East, Asia, and Europe.
The study of Ancient Civilizations will explore life in Mesopotamia, Hebrew Kingdoms, and Egypt. Topics discussed will be cultural aspects, economic and governmental systems of each civilization and significant individuals.
The study of Africa involves key groups of people, their geographical locations and key resources utilized. Also, taking a look at the conflict and cooperation among the key groups, and the impact outside influences had. Significant individuals and historical sites will be identified.
The Middle East will involve identifying and comparing and contrasting the major religions; Islam, Judaism, and Christianity. In this unit the affect of religious beliefs on governmental structures and world conflicts will also be analyzed. Significant individuals, historical sites, and key historical documents will be identified.
The study of Asia will explore the major religions of South and East Asia; Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism, and Daoism. The economic activities and the impact/influence they had on the rest of the world. Dynasties will be identified and their impact discussed. Key cultural concepts, significant individuals, historical sites, and historical documents will be identified.
The study of Europe involves the study of various groups of people; Greek, Romans, and Germanic Tribes and their contributions. Christianity and the impact it had on Europe. The feudal system, crusades, black plague, and renaissance will be discussed. Significant individuals, historical sites, and key historical documents will be identified.
Students will be able to…..
¨ Utilize core study skills and strategies that promote student achievement. The emphasis will be on:
o Content-reading skills
o Vocabulary acquisition skills
o Content-writing skills
o Verbal communication skills through class discussion
o Organizational skills (proper notebook, use of the agenda)
¨ Utilize content reading skills to enhance comprehension of the history textbook and supplemental materials; explore primary source materials.
¨ Incorporate writing strategies to communicate their understanding of the content, to demonstrate an understanding of various points of view and world perspectives.
¨ Contribute to class discussions on a daily basis.
¨ Create, organize, and share information in either a small group format or independently.
¨ Research a topic utilizing the Big 6 research method building upon the skills learned in 6th grade.
Classroom Expectations
The classroom environment should promote learning. It is the responsibility of all in the classroom to maintain the proper learning environment.
1. Be prepared to learn each day.
a. Bring necessary materials to class.
b. Complete all homework prior to coming to class.
c. Have a good attitude.
2. Be respectful of others and their property.
a. Do not bully anyone.
b. Do not insult or make fun of someone.
c. Keep your hands and your feet to yourself.
3. Be polite.
a. Treat others as you would like to be treated.
b. Use appropriate manners.
4. Be the best you can be.
a. Stay on task in class.
b. Complete assignments to the best of your ability.
c. Ask for help when needed
d. Follow all school rules
5. Homework
a. Homework should be completed on time.
b. Late homework: 1day=50% deduction, more than 1 day=0 points
Assessment of Student Performance
A student’s grade should reflect what she or he knows and is able to do. Grades will be based on homework (15%), in-class assignments (40%), and assessments (45%). Students are required to keep an organized notebook that will serve as a resource for learning.