In 7th grade, the primary focus of social studies is the non-western world. However, I feel that a straight area-study approach is not desirable for several reasons. We lack a textbook that can handle this approach adequately - they simply don t write them. Also, while it is important that you begin to develop an interest and understanding of on-going world events, what you learn this year as seventh graders will soon become outdated. Finally, at this stage of your development, process is far more important than substance.
Science studies the physical aspects of the world, the geological, biological, and astronomical.
Social studies focuses on the human aspect. Who we are, where we came from, where we are going, and how we use the earth and others to get there. To not understand social studies aspects of the world is to overlook its most important component - its people. This year we shall cover numerous topics which will be explained in detail as we begin each mini-course . Each topic will cover approximately six weeks, and each will have as its focus the people of the world.