Social Studies Department

7th grade Social Studies

The first semester course engages students in historical thinking about contemporary issues (sociopolitical, geographic, cultural, historical, and economic) faced by Hawaii and the nations and territories of the Pacific. This course examines the diversity and commonalities of the Pacific Area, the impact of contact with other nations and the issues, challenges, and decisions for the present and future. This course examines issues through the perspectives of geography, cultural anthropology, economics, and politics. Students are actively engaged in decision-making and problem posing and solving. This course provides more opportunities and time to address the Social Studies Content Standards.

The second semester course engages students in deep historical thinking about the evolution (change, continuity and causality) of the historic, economic, political and social/ cultural institutions of Hawaii rather than a chronological overview. This synoptic (comprehensive) course, focusing on the monarchy era, critically examines the people and events of that era through multiple perspectives and historical empathy.

8th grade Social Studies

This course engages students in in-depth historical inquiry focusing on the people, ideas, and events of the 18th and 19th century that has shaped and continues to shape our nation. It allows students to examine our history through multiple perspectives and to develop empathy, interpretations and self-knowledge for a deep understanding of American society. It develops an historic perspective for understanding change, causality, and continuity from first settlement to contemporary issues. This course examines in depth the principles such as justice, equality, and independence. Democracy, citizenship, and active participation in civic action are concepts and ideas that are fully developed, Contemporary events are examined in light of past issues, decisions, and controversies. History, Political Science/Civics, and Economic standards are emphasized.

UPDATED: August, 2018