History

Junior High history classes develop a high level of student engagement in historical investigation while instilling a base of shared knowledge among students. The scope of the curriculum integrates into the California scope and sequence for the seventh and eighth grades and builds upon the skills and capabilities students developed within their High Point K-6 experience. The intention is to create a dynamic environment dedicated to student success. Students explore challenges and build a deep curiosity about history and our place within it. A key component of adolescent development is the perception of self and the envisioning of a future self. History provides perspective on this endeavor by recognizing that cultural assumptions are subject to time and place, yet common elements remain that begin to define the human condition. By understanding biographies within the context of larger events, students begin to see how individual actions have broad effects, but only within the context of the actions of others.

7th grade World History provides students with tools to explore questions of context and identity.  This course develops such perspective by focusing on historical events between 300 BCE and 1800 CE that are foundational in creating the world we live in today. The narrative scope of the class focuses on specific histories, eras, dynasties, and events. In each of these areas, the class addresses thematic strands examining political forms, philosophical and religious traditions, cultural values, and economic trends. Students develop research skills finding and evaluating historical sources to present their own perspectives on historical events.

In 8th grade U.S. History, students develop an understanding of the United States within the perspective of building an educated and responsible citizenship to guide the future of our country.  We use United States History: Independence to 1914 and several books from the series A History of US by Joy Hakim. In addition, this material is supplemented with other resources to enrich student understanding. Students continue to build research skills in understanding history. In addition, one eighth-grade class engages in a semester-long research project through National History Day developing original projects in a variety of formats.