7

th
Grade Social Studies
Cardinal Shehan School 2014-2015

Teacher: Mr. Kevin Coons Contact: kcoons@cardinalshehanschool.org
410-433-2775 ext. 237
Class Resources in Information: http://www.csshistoryclass.weebly.com

Hebrews 6:18-19 God did this so that, by two unchangeable things in which it is impossible for
God to lie, we who have fled to take hold of the hope set before us may be greatly encouraged.

We
have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure.

Area of Study
When many people think of Geography, they think of memorizing continents,
countries, and capitols. They may even think of labeling and coloring various
locations on blank maps. In short, Geography is sometimes seen as a series of
memorized facts that we store as knowledge that is somehow supposed to mean something to us.

As we study Geography in 7
th
grade, we will look at those maps and all their lines. We will study
physical landforms and regions of the world. These things shape the culture of the people who live
there. We will memorize places (the important ones). We will color and label maps. However, we
will spend a significant chunk of time becoming familiar with the world
around us. We will learn to see ourselves as part of the worldnot just
the center of it.

The primary goal of this course is to teach students how to analyze
information from geographic representation, tools, and
technology to define location, place, and region. Students will also learn
to analyze the relationships among the natural environment, the
movement of peoples, and the development of societies.

Skills
During our studies various skills will be sharpened or introduced, such as reading, writing, public
speaking, the ability to interpret documents and maps, various geography skills, how to analyze
problems and determine solutions, study skills, time management skills, and test-taking strategies.

Students will participate in a variety of activities designed to enhance their understanding of
material being covered. Some will be individual and others will require group or partner
participation in order to develop strong teamwork, communication and
collaborative skills

Required Materials
Separate binder with 4 dividers and blank notebook paper
Pens (blue or black ink only for assignments, tests and quizzes)
Flash drive (does not need to be separate from school issued one)

Class Expectations
1. All students must be prepared for class with the following items after entering class daily:
A. A pen or pencil and your textbook
B. An open binder full of paper and ready for note taking and class work
C. Their homework assignment from the previous day
2. All students participate openly in the discussion of the material presented to them
3. All students follow procedures and directions for various individual and group tasks
4. All students give their best effort in all of the work assigned
5. All written assignments must be completed in pen and written in cursive
6. Textbooks must be covered and remain covered

Classroom Discipline Plan
The classroom is a place where information is learned and ideas are shared. The success of this
class depends largely upon whether the classroom environment is safe and caring. This simple list
of expectations will guide every student in making responsible choices
about his or her behavior. They are:
1. Follow the procedures of the class 2. Be Productive
3. Be Attentive 4. Be Respectful
5. Be Cooperative

The expectations will be discussed with the students at the beginning of
the class year and will be reinforced throughout the year. Students who are
having difficulty in these areas will be warned and repeat offenses may result in loss of recess time,
writing assignments reinforcing procedures not being followed, demerits being issued, guardian
contact/conference, and/or administrative conference.

Current Events
All students will complete one Current Events assignment every two weeks, to be handed in on the
last day of the week (usually Friday). The dates for each assignment will be posted on the
classroom calendar, assignment board, and online at csshistoryclass.weebly.com. For each
assignment the student must find a news article (in-print or online) to read and analyze. The
student must also complete the Current Event template and attach the article to the template. This
assignment is worth 25 points.

Grading
Grades will be based on the following percentages:
Tests/Quizzes/Projects/Paper 60% Classwork 20% Homework 20%

Homework
Homework will be given, when necessary to review concepts or to prepare for the next class on
Monday-Thursday. Occasionally a weekend assignment may be required or this time will be used
to work on projects. Students are required to record their homework assignments in their
planners each day. The teacher will initial the recorded homework assignment. It is the
responsibility of the student to have the assignment recorded when the teacher is ready to
initial. Homework assignments that are not turned in will be completed during recess time.

It is imperative that students stay organized, remain on task, meet deadlines, seek extra help, and
pay attention!!! It is essential to keep up with what is happening in class, as falling behind will make
it difficult for one to catch up and succeed.

Country Research Project: DUE: Week of November 16
th
A separate handout with project description and requirements will be given.