The sample objectives are optional, not mandatory. Competencies indicate skills that enable fulfillment of competencies, describe competencies in further detail, or show the progression of concepts throughout the grades. School districts may adopt the objectives, modify them, and are encouraged to write their own objectives to meet the needs of students in their school district. Examine characteristics of various societies in the Western Hemisphere and trace their development. Describe ecosystems and the differences between them throughout time.
Measure distances on a variety of maps.
Analyze civic life, politics, and government. Describe the essential characteristics of democracy, socialism, and communism, as found in the countries of the Western Hemisphere. Examine the economic interactions of individuals, families, communities, businesses, and governments in the Western Hemisphere. Explain the concept of goods and services. List the products of the theme country, and select those most influential in producing a stable economy.