Here are some updates from our 8-12 Social Studies teachers:
Mr. Banks
The 2022-2023 school year has been a success for the grades 10-12 Social Studies classes! Through a range of college and career readiness activities, Mr. Banks has made learning relevant and rigorous for all students. Over the past month, Government students have been deeply studying the Constitution and its Amendments, with students showcasing their knowledge through an engaging Amendment project. We have also been utilizing the new Teachers Curriculum Institute (TCI) online program, which offers numerous interactive lessons aligned with the Iowa Core Content Standards.
In addition to exploring historical events, such as the Iraq War and its impact on the current world, American History students have also been excited to dive into more current events that are relevant to their lives. Through engaging discussions, students have made connections between the past and the present, and have gained a deeper understanding of how history can shape our future.
Mr. Hayes
Mr. Hayes’ classroom has been bustling with activity throughout the school year, as students have engaged with a range of interesting and thought-provoking topics.
During the 2nd semester, 9th grade students took American History I. In this class, students study units on a wide range of historical events, from the Civil War to westward migration, the rise of industry, and to the Progressive Era. As the year comes to a close, students are excited to participate in a fun cooperative learning project that will give them a sneak peek at what's to come in future American History courses here at Central Lee.
In Sociology, students have studied the basics of sociology and how individuals impact others by their actions and decisions within society. One particularly interesting unit focused on personal biases and stereotypes, encouraging students to reflect on their own lives and experiences. Throughout the semester, students have tackled a range of complex sociological concepts and are currently observing educational environments within the Central Lee Community School District. They are also interviewing staff members on how they build positive relationships with their students.
In Iowa History, students have been immersed in the rich history and landscapes of our state. From politics to conservation, famous Iowans, to the history of Native Americans in Iowa, students have gained a deep understanding of what makes our home state unique. As the year draws to a close, students will have the opportunity to research a topic of their choice related to Iowa or Lee County conservation. They will then write a letter to a representative at either the state or local level, sharing their personal stance on the issue at hand.
Mr. Bryant
The 7th grade social studies class has been busy analyzing current events and comparing them to similar historical events. Throughout the second semester, students have been engaging with a range of current events and historical topics, exploring issues related to pollution and climate change, human health, and economics.
During the Pollution unit, students examined the causes and effects of pollution at the state, national, and global levels. They also investigated alternative energy sources to alleviate the impact of pollution.
In the Human Health Unit, students developed and debated arguments related to the death penalty in the United States. They also explored different factors that contribute to quality of life, and ways to improve it at the individual, school, and community levels. They also gained insight into the challenges faced by the World Health Organization in controlling global health crises and how countries must cooperate with one another in order to prevent and mitigate these crises. To finish the unit, they analyzed strategies employed by restaurants to promote themselves as “healthy,” despite contributing to the obesity epidemic in the United States.
Currently, 7th grade is in the Economics unit, where students are learning about minimum wage, supply and demand, and economic decision-making. As the year comes to an end, students will tackle a range of issues related to conflict and peace, international diplomacy, inequality and civil rights, and the dangers of nuclear energy in the Nuclear Era.
Miss McCoy
In 8th grade history class, students explore the history of the United States and the development of democratic principles. Students examine the rights and civic responsibilities of citizens and analyze the origins, functions, and structure of the U.S. government.
This year, we have adopted a new program called Teachers Curriculum Institute (TCI). TCI includes a convenient online textbook, and students have enjoyed the engaging writing style and interesting activities. One of the highlights of the year was a lively debate reenacting the Constitutional Convention, in which students impressed me with their ability to take on the roles of our founding fathers. It was a valuable learning experience that helped students understand the challenges that political leaders faced when creating our Constitution.
As the end of the school year approaches, we are wrapping up our study of the Industrial Revolution and exploring the differences between the North and South prior to the Civil War. The final exam on May 19 will cover all of the essential topics we have covered throughout the year. We are excited to see how well our students do and look forward to celebrating their accomplishments.