Course Syllabus

Social Studies 2010-2011

Instructors:            M. DiMartino, J. Hinman, M. Stapleton, D. Wilbur

Course:             Seventh Grade Cultural Studies 

The Class:            

The Cultural Studies class is designed to provide you with an opportunity to understand how culture in other parts of the world has evolved. Before beginning our case studies, we will discuss the concepts of culture and the connection between culture and geography.  We will also explore the different types of governments in the world.  Two cultural areas of the world will be explored; these are Latin America and Africa.  Over the course of the year you will stretch your imagination to try to understand how people of these areas view the world and the events that have occurred and are occurring today.  It is the primary goal to expand your understanding of another’s point of view.  As members of a global society, it is important that we are careful not to project our values on people of other cultures.  Our differences should become a barrier to open interaction.

Cultural conflicts and issues of human rights will be investigated throughout the year in each of the cultural units.  A strong reliance on history will provide you with the context for these investigations.  Every attempt will be made to provide you with varied points of view so that you may draw your conclusions through a critical analysis of varying opinions.  You will work to sharpen your abilities to think critically and make educated choices.  You will learn to resolve conflicts and to create peaceful solutions to difficult situations.  You will expand your view of the world and develop a better understanding of where you fit in it.

The Units:           

1.    Introduction

1. What is culture and how does it change?
2. Geography
3. Forms of governments around the world

1. Latin America
   1. Early Civilizations:  Maya, Aztec, and Inca
   2. European Colonization and Cultural Clash
   3. Rise of Independent Latin American Nations
   4. Modern Problems and Migration
   5. Case studies

1. Africa
   1. Early Cultures and History
   2. The age of European Imperialism
   3. Independence and South African Apartheid
   4. Post Apartheid Africa
   5. Modern day Genocide
   6. Case studies

The Books:

• The Americas: by Holt
• Africa: by Holt

Other possible readings may include the following:

• Waiting for the Rain: by Sheila Gordon
• Out War of War: by Sara Cameron
• The Forty-Third War: by Louise Moeri
• The Crossing: by Gary Paulsen
• Tonight by Sea: by Frances Temple
• Grab Hands and Run: by Frances Temple
• Taste of Salt: by Frances Temple
• Red Midnight: by Ben Mikaelsen
• Before We Were Free: by Julia Alvarez

 Grading Policy:

Homework 20%

Assessments  35%

Projects 35%

In class participatory activities 10%

Total 100%