Middle School History

The sixth grade Geography curriculum introduces students to the world’s physical and cultural landscapes while developing their understanding of geographic concepts and terminology. The year begins with foundational skills centered around the five themes of geography—location, place, region, movement, and human-environment interaction—which serve as the framework for exploring political and cultural geography across Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas, with special attention to Florida and the United States. Students also explore early civilizations tied to the regions studied, deepening historical and cultural context.

Instruction is active and varied, including map work, reading comprehension, current events analysis, research projects, and both written and oral presentations. Students engage in discussions, collaborative work, and independent inquiry, honing their ability to make connections between geography and real-world issues. Regular current event discussions encourage students to think critically about how geography influences local, national, and global events.

World Cultures blends historical context with contemporary issues to foster students’ appreciation, understanding, and empathy toward diverse peoples and global perspectives. Building on their sixth grade study of geography and ancient civilizations, students explore topics such as Indigenous cultures, the impact of colonization, the Middle Ages and Renaissance, human rights and the United Nations, and the cultural diversity of Africa, Asia, and South America.

Students are also encouraged to examine current global challenges and consider innovative, real-world solutions. The curriculum emphasizes project-based learning, combining collaborative work with opportunities for student-led inquiry. Authentic assessments—including curating museum exhibits, producing podcasts, and designing cultural survival guides—allow students to demonstrate their understanding while developing the 4Cs: critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and creativity.

Student voice and choice are woven throughout the course, empowering learners to take ownership of their education and build the independence essential to lifelong learning.

The eighth grade American History course explores the nation's evolution through the lens of turning points in American history. Notably, this course explores the American Revolution, the US Civil War, the emergence of the United States as a world power, and post-WWII America. 

Through a largely document-based approach, students not only gain a richer understanding of American history but also develop critical thinking, analytical writing, and civic literacy skills that will serve them well into the future.