History Courses

World History (7th Grade): World History and Geography - Medieval and Early Modern Times

Core Focus:
World civilizations from the fall of the Roman Empire through the Enlightenment, including the development of religions, cultures, and governments that shaped the modern world.

1. Fall of the Roman Empire & Rise of New Powers

• Understand the causes and consequences of Rome’s decline.

• Explore how new political and religious systems emerged across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.

2. Major World Religions

• Learn the origins, beliefs, and spread of Islam, Christianity, Buddhism, Judaism, and Hinduism.

• Study how religion influenced law, culture, and conflict.

3. Civilizations in Africa, Asia, and the Americas

• Study the cultural and technological achievements of societies such as:

  • West African Kingdoms (Ghana, Mali, Songhai)

  • China under the Tang and Song Dynasties

  • Maya, Aztec, and Inca civilizations

4. Medieval Europe & Feudal Societies

• Examine feudalism, the power of the Catholic Church, and life during the Middle Ages.

• Understand the causes and effects of the Crusades and Black Death.

5. The Renaissance, Reformation, and Scientific Revolution

• Explore how ideas about art, science, and religion transformed Europe.

• Learn about figures like Leonardo da Vinci, Martin Luther, Galileo, and Newton.

6. Age of Exploration & Global Exchange

• Study the motivations, journeys, and impacts of European exploration.

• Analyze the effects of colonization, trade, and cultural encounters on indigenous peoples.

Purpose:
7th grade history helps students understand the roots of the modern world, comparing diverse civilizations and exploring how cultural, religious, and political systems evolved over time.

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US History (8th Grade): United States History and Geography – Growth and Conflict

Core Focus:
The development of the United States from the founding documents through Reconstruction, including the foundations of democracy, westward expansion, and the Civil War.

1. Founding Principles & the U.S. Constitution

• Analyze the Declaration of Independence, U.S. Constitution, and Bill of Rights.

• Understand key democratic principles such as separation of powers, checks and balances, and federalism.

2. Early Republic and Political Development

• Study the challenges of forming a new government.

• Explore key events like the creation of political parties, Washington’s presidency, and landmark Supreme Court cases.

3. Westward Expansion & Reform Movements

• Understand Manifest Destiny and its impact on Native Americans and the environment.

• Learn about 19th-century reform movements, including abolition, women’s rights, and education.

4. Sectionalism and Road to Civil War

• Examine growing tensions over slavery, states’ rights, and economic differences between North and South.

• Analyze events such as the Missouri Compromise, Dred Scott decision, and John Brown’s raid.

5. The Civil War

• Explore the causes, key battles, leaders, and turning points of the war.

• Understand the impact of Emancipation Proclamation and Gettysburg Address.

6. Reconstruction

• Learn how the U.S. attempted to rebuild after the war and integrate freed slaves into society.

• Analyze the successes and failures of Reconstruction policies, including the 13th–15th Amendments.

Purpose:
8th grade history builds students' understanding of American identity, democratic values, and the historical struggles for justice and equality—laying the foundation for civic responsibility.

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Progression Summary:

These courses not only cover historical content but also support key skills like analyzing primary sources, constructing arguments, citing evidence, and understanding cause and effect.