rahway public schools · 9.1.8.d.5 justify the need for greater cross-cultural understanding due to...

C U R R I C U L U M

F O R

S O C I A L

S T U D I E S

G R A D E

7

This curriculum is part of the Educational Program of Studies of the Rahway Public Schools.

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

John Perillo, Supervisor of Special Projects

Tiffany Lynch, Program Supervisor of Literacy

The Board acknowledges the following who contributed to the preparation of this curriculum.

Gary Mendes

Michael Celoski

David Brighouse

Joseph Sorrentino

Subject/Course Title: Date of Board Adoptions:

Social Studies September 20, 2011

Grade 7 Revised – August 26, 2014

Revised – November 25, 2014

Revised – November 21, 2017

RAHWAY PUBLIC SCHOOLS CURRICULUM

Content Area: Social Studies

Unit Title: Introduction to Geography

Target Course/Grade Level: Social Studies - Grade 7

Unit Summary: This unit will introduce students to the study of geography in both its' physical & human characteristics. Students will understand

how geographers use tools to study the main branches of geography - human & physical. Students will examine the five themes of geography, the

six essential elements of geography, the solar system, the water cycle, land & water forms on earth, weather & climate, different climate zones,

ecosystems, natural resources, fossil fuels, world cultures, population patterns, governments, and trade in a global community.

Approximate Length of Unit: 6 - 8 weeks

Primary interdisciplinary connections: Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, History

Standards:

6.2 World History/Global Studies

All students will acquire the knowledge & skills to think analytically & systematically about how past interactions of people, cultures, and the

environment affect issues across time & cultures. Such knowledge & skills enable students to make informed decisions as socially & ethically

responsible world citizens in the 21st century.

Content Strand:

6.1.8.D.2.b- Compare & Contrast the voluntary & involuntary migratory experiences of different groups of people, and explain why

their experiences differed.

6.2.8.B.3.a - Determine how geography & the availability of natural resources influenced the development of the political, economic,

and cultural systems of each of the classical civilizations & provided motivation for expansion.

6.2.8.B.4.b - Assess how maritime & overland trade routes (i.e., African caravan & Silk Road) impacted urbanization, transportation,

communication, and the development of international trade centers.

6.2.8.B.4.a - Explain how geography influenced the development of the political, economic, and cultural centers of each empire and

well as the empires' relationships with other parts of the world.

6.2.8.C.4.a - Explain the interrelationships among improved agricultural production, population growth, urbanization, and

commercialization.

21st Century Life and Career Skills:

9.1.4.B.1 Participate in brainstorming sessions to seek information, ideas, and strategies that foster creative thinking.

9.1.8.B.1 Use multiple points of view to create alternative solutions.

9.1.8.B.2 Assess data gathered to solve a problem for which there are varying perspectives (i.e., cross-cultural,

gender-specific, generational), and determine how the data can best be used to design multiple solutions.

9.1.8.C.2 Demonstrate the use of compromise, consensus, and community building strategies for carrying out different tasks,

assignments, and projects.

9.1.8.C.3 Model leadership skills during classroom & extra-curricular activities.

9.1.4.D.3 Demonstrate an awareness of one's own culture & other cultures during interactions within & outside of the classroom.

9.1.8.D.2 Demonstrate the ability to understand inferences.

9.1.8.D.5 Justify the need for greater cross-cultural understanding due to globalization.

9.1.8.E.1 Explain how technology has strengthened the role of digital media in the global society.

9.1.12.F.6 Relate scientific advances (i.e., advances in medicine) to the creation of new ethical dilemmas.

LEARNING TARGETS

UNIT OVERVIEW

English/Language Arts:

RH.6-8.1. Cite specific textual evidence to support analysis of primary & secondary sources.

RH.6-8.2. Determine the central ideas or information of a primary or secondary source; provide an accurate summary of the source

distinct from prior knowledge or opinions.

RH.6-8.3. Identify key steps in a text's description of a process related to history/social studies (i.e., how a bill becomes law, how

interest rates are raised or lowered).

RH.6-8.4. Determine the meaning of words & phrases as they are used in a text, including vocabulary specific to domains related to

history/social studies.

RH.6-8.5. Describe how a text presents information (i.e., sequentially, comparatively, causally).

RH.6-8.7. Integrate visual information (i.e., in charts, graphs, photographs, videos, or maps) with other information in print and digital

texts.

RH.6-8.8. Distinguish among fact, opinion, and reasoned judgment in a text.

RH.6-8.10. By the end of grade 8, read & comprehend history/social studies texts in grades 6 - 8 text complexity band independently

& proficiently.

Unit Understandings:

Students will understand that…

• how ancient & modern tools aid geographers in their study.

• the importance of both human & physical characteristics to culture, people, geography and world regions.

• the relation of the five themes of geography in the study of geography.

• the six essential elements are very important in identifying ideas in the study of geography.

• green energy such as solar, hydrological, wave, geothermal & wind energy are substitutes for fossil fuels & that these new

technologies are making new strides in modern society.

• identifying the planet's water & land forms are relevant in the study of geography.

• the world's different climate zones and their impact on both human & physical are important features affecting animal, human &

plant life on earth.

• climate& human activity make the planets' ecosystems vulnerable.

• humans use natural resources for their benefit and how we replenish & conserve those resources today will affect earth tomorrow.

• changes& consequences of world population patterns, world governments & trade impact our economies, security & lives.

Unit Essential Questions:

• What types of tools are used in geography to help us view the world in new ways?

• What two different but related systems in geography are used to organize geographic studies?

• Define & explain physical & human geography?

• How does the earth's movement & the sun's energy interact to create day & night, temperature changes and the seasons?

• What characteristics define trade between peoples (e.g., trans-Saharan trade and Silk Road) and what are the consequences of such

routes for networks of communication, the development of ethnic identities, the creation of cities, and the promotion of cross-

cultural understanding?

• How does water affect life on earth?

• How do processes on earth affect and change earth's surface shape & physical features (weathering)?

• Explain how a group's shared practices & beliefs (culture), differs from group to group & changes over time.

• Why are population studies important to the study of geography?

• Compare & contrast world governments and levels of economic development.

• How has communication & travel changed global connections, cultural exchange, trade and a cooperative world community?

Knowledge and Skills:

Students will know…..

• key terms: geography, landscape, social science, region, map, globe, physical & human geography, cartography, meteorology,

• absolute & relative locations, environment, solar energy, rotation, revolution, latitude, tropics, weather, climate, prevailing winds,

• ocean currents, front, monsoons, savannas, permafrost, ecosystem, habitat, extinct, desertification, natural resource, renewable

&nonrenewable resources, fossil fuels, hydroelectric, culture, ethnic group, cultural diversity & diffusion, communism, gross

• domestic product (GDP), globalization.

• key places: earth, continents, oceans, deserts, solar system

• the different phases of the water cycle

• all of earth's climate zones & their locations

• the difference between renewable & nonrenewable resources (advantages & disadvantages)

• different types of fossil fuels and their present usages

• difference between absolute & relative location

• compare the different types of governments & economies worldwide

Students will be able to …

• give examples of each branch of geography

• identify, compare, contrast maps & globes

• elaborate on how satellite & computers help geographers improve their knowledge of the world

• explain earth's movement in relation to seasons, climate, temperature changes & day & night

• give examples of water's importance on earth

• identify the various processes of how weathering changes earth's surfaces

• explain the water cycle and it's benefits

• identify the various types of governments and levels of economic development worldwide

• give examples of cultural diversity & diffusion

• identify the various sectors of population migration, density and trends and their consequences

• identify developed countries, developing countries and non-developing countries

Assessment:

What evidence will be collected and deemed acceptable to show that students truly “understand”?

• quizzes

• tests

• word keys & definitions

• class debate & discussion

• poster project (water cycle or weathering)

• unit packet (worksheets/ skill sheets to be graded)

• NJ ASK open-ended question (2)

Learning Activities:

What differentiated learning experiences and instruction will enable all students to achieve the desired results?

• Venn Diagrams on governments & world economies

• Bar & Line graphs outlining population, migration & density patterns (census)

• Coloring maps/climate zones

• Unit packet reflecting various worksheets on water cycle, solar system, world climates

• Journal entry - suppose you were a geographer; what types of tools and branch of geography would you prefer to work in & why?

• Travel Brochure of the Trans-Saharan Trade—features of the brochure should include geographical features of the trade, ethnic

groups involved, religious differences between traders, various African kingdoms involved, introduction and continuing role of the

camel, impact of the Arab slave trade, goods traded, and everyday life of various groups of traders.

• K,W,L chart: showing 1,2,3 steps of the learning process thru Unit. What I Know, What I want to learn, and what I Learned.

• Internet research on different professions in geography (i.e., meteorologist) and their job description

• Unit/Chapter Reviews at end of units & chapters.

Teacher Resources:

Video/DVD

Various on-line pages & activities (i.e., water cycle)

Various Primary source documents

Overhead transparencies (maps, charts, graphs)

Textbook - World Geography

Maps & globes (in class)

Amistad interactive textbook, sponsored by the Amistad Commission; http://www.njamistadcurriculum.com/

RESOURCES

EVIDENCE OF LEARNING

Equipment Needed:

Computers

TV

DVD player

Overhead projector

Computer projector/ White board



Unit Title: North America


Unit Summary: This unit will introduce students to the study of geography of the North American continent and its countries, landscapes, oceans,

regions & people. Students will understand how the diverse physical features, resources & cultures have shaped the nations of the USA, Canada,

Mexico and of the Caribbean. Students will also examine the history and cultures of these countries and how they affect present-day governments,

economics & society. Examination of current events such as immigration between neighboring countries and their relationship will also be studied.

Students will also recognize Greenland as a North American territory by geography, but politically controlled by a European (Denmark) state.



Standards:





Content Strand:

6.1.8.A.1.a - Compare & contrast forms of governance, belief systems, and family structures among African, European, and Native

American groups.

6.1.8.B.1.a - Describe migration & settlement patterns of Native American groups, and explain how these patterns affected

interactions in different regions of the Western Hemisphere.

6.1.8.C.1.b - Explain why individuals & societies trade, how trade functions, and the role of trade during this period.

6.1.8.D.1.b - Explain how interactions among African, European, and Native American groups began a cultural transformation.

6.1.8.B.2.b - Compare & contrast how the search for natural resources resulted in conflict & cooperation among European colonists &

Native American groups in the New World.

6.1.8.C.2.c - Analyze the impact of triangular trade on multiple nations & groups.

6.1.8.B.3.b - Determine the extent to which the geography of the USA influenced the debate on representation in Congress &

federalism by examining the NJ & Virginia plans.

6.1.8.B.3.c - Use maps & other geographic tools to evaluate the impact of geography on the execution & outcome of the American

Revolutionary War.

6.1.8.B.4.b - Map territorial expansion & settlement, as well as the locations of conflicts with & removal of Native Americans.

6.1.8.D.2.b- Compare & contrast the voluntary & involuntary migratory experiences of different groups of people, and explain why



commercialization.









LEARNING TARGETS

UNIT OVERVIEW














RH.6-8.5. Describe how a text presents information (i.e., sequentially, comparatively, casually).


texts.



& proficiently.



• The USA has diverse physical features, resources, and cultures. Its history has helped shape the democratic nation it is

today.

• Canada is a country with rich resources. Its culture & history reflect native & European influences.

• Mexico has a history of great civilizations, colonialism, and struggles for independence.

• The physical beauty of the Caribbean is one of the region's richest resources. Native & colonial influences are strong in

the region.

• The region's different climate zones and their impact on both humans & its physical geography are important features

affecting animal human & plant life on this continent.

• North America exports many important natural resources and man-made products worldwide.

• Geographical factors played a role in the presence and perpetuation of the institution of slavery in

various regions of the continent and contributed to its diverse character.

• North America is home to many of the natural disasters (i.e., hurricanes, tornados, earthquakes, floods, wildfires &

drought) that plague our planet.


• What river system drains the entire Interior Plains & is the longest river in North America?

• Compare & contrast the physical geography of the Appalachians from that of the Rocky Mountains?

• Who were the pioneers?

• How do you think American culture has been able to influence people & culture around the world?

• Why were Native Americans ultimately abandoned as a form of coerced labor in favor of Africans?

• Why did Europeans bring enslaved people to the Americas and for what purpose?

• What are some examples of slave resistance and rebellion in North America as enslaved people sought to assert their

agency and independence?

• What role did culture, geography, and social roles play in determining the nature and severity of the slave system in North

America?

• Why do you think people immigrate to the USA?

• What are the 4 regions of the USA??

• What primary raw materials come from Canada

• What are the coldest & warmest regions of Canada?

• Explain the relationship between the USA & Canadian governments.

• Name the various problems Mexico faces today in resources, economics & society.

• Briefly describe the Olmec, Maya & Aztec civilizations and their contributions to Mexico today.

• Describe the various climate zones of Mexico and their impact on its people's lives.

• Describe the relationship between the USA & Mexico regarding past wars & present immigration

• In which ways did the Spanish affect Mexico during colonial times?

• What factors help classify Mexico as a developing country?

• How might the geography in the Caribbean effect communication & travel in this region?

• How has tectonic activity affected the Caribbean islands

• How do the languages & culture of the Caribbean region reflect the regions' history?

• How does tourism impact the Caribbean people & region?



• key terms: Appalachian Mountains, Great Lakes, Mississippi River, Rocky Mountains, continental divide, colony, plantation,

pioneers, megalopolis, Washington D.C, St. Lawrence River, Niagara Falls, Canadian Shield, Grand Banks, provinces, Toronto,

Ottawa, maritime, regionalism, Rio Grande, peninsula, Baja California, Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico City,

mestizos, missions, haciendas, cash crop, inflation, isthmus, Caribbean Sea, archipelago, Greater Antilles, Lesser Antilles,

ecotourism, commonwealth, dialect.

• key places: USA, Canada, Mexico, Caribbean & Greenland

• that Caribbean culture is a mix of African, European & Native cultures

• that different regions of North America reflect different levels of economic prosperity

• the different types of natural resources that North America contain.

• the USA is a large country with diverse physical features, climates & resources.

• that Canada is a very large country with a northerly location, cold climates & rich resources. that Mexico has four culture

regions that all play part in the country's government & economy.

• that the Caribbean islands have a rich history & culture influenced by European colonization.


• give examples how colonialism has affected every region of North America

• identify & compare & contrast the different regions of each North American country & region

• create a time line of important historical events in Mexico, USA & Canada

• explain the role geography played in the distinct development of slavery in the Northern and Southern United States

• give examples of how African & Native American slavery impacted trade, economics and culture in North America

• provide examples of slave resistance and rebellion

• identify the various wars in North America that shaped the continents borders and governments.

• give examples of both imports & exports of North America over the last 500 years

• explain the various natural disasters that are common to North America and the reasons they exist

• identify cities, regions and capitols of all major North American countries

• give examples of different climate zones and their vegetation in North America

• identify the various sectors of employment and their regions throughout North America

• identify developed countries, developing countries and non-developing countries in North America

• identify population densities throughout North America and why less vs. more

Assessment:


• quizzes

• tests



• poster project ( census - American population movement/migration over the last 25,000 years)


• NJ ASK open-ended question(s)



• Venn Diagrams on governments & North American economies

• Bar & Line graphs outlining population, migration & density patterns in North America (census)


• Students pick one of the famous North American slave rebellions and write a journal entry from the perspective of the

enslaved person describing what he or she experiences in the moments leading up to, during, and after the rebellion:

Stono Rebellion, Gabriel Prosser, Denmark Vesey, Nat Turner

• Poster project depicting four regions where slavery exhibited distinctive characteristics (differences may be colony-to-

colony, North vs. South, plantation vs. industrial, America vs. Mexico)

• Colored map of the Atlantic Slave Trade (Triangle Trade) depicting the route slave traders followed from Europe, to

Africa, to the Americas, and back to Europe in order to profit from the exchange of slaves and other goods in Africa and

the Americas

• Unit packet reflecting various worksheets on North American climate zones, colonialism and population densities


• Journal entry - suppose you were taking a cruise in the Caribbean, which islands and cities (ports of call) would you like

• to visit & why?

• K,W,L chart: showing 1,2,3 steps of the learning process thru Unit. What I Know, What I Want to learn, and what I

Learned

• Internet research on the commonwealth nations of the Caribbean and their struggle with independence, pirates, & slavery


Teacher Resources:

Video/DVD

Various on-line pages & activities (i.e., North American natural disasters)


Over head transparencies (maps, charts, graphs)




Equipment Needed:

Computers

TV

DVD player

Overhead projector

Computer projector

White Board

RESOURCES



Unit Title: South America


Unit Summary: This unit will introduce students to the study of geography of the South American continent and its nations, landscape, oceans,

regions & people. Students will understand how the diverse physical features, resources & cultures have shaped the nations of South America.

Students will also examine the history and cultures of these countries and how they affect present day governments, economics & society.

Examination of current events such as immigration between neighboring countries and their relationship will also be studied. Students will

understand that various islands such as the Galapagos & Falklands are hundreds of miles off coast. In addition, important physical features dot this

continent such as the Amazon River, Amazon Rain Forest and the Andes Mountains.



Standards:





Content Strand:


American groups.

6.1.8.B.1.a - Describe migration & settlement patterns of Native American groups, and explain how these patterns affected

interactions in different regions of the Western Hemisphere.



6.1.8.B.2.b - Compare & contrast how the search for natural resources resulted in conflict & cooperation among European colonists &

Native American groups in the New World.

6.1.8.C.2.c - Analyze the impact of Triangle Trade on multiple nations & groups.

6.1.8.B.4.b - Map territorial expansion & settlement, as well as the locations of conflicts with & removal of Native Americans.




commercialization.

6.1.8.D.1.c - Evaluate the impact of the Columbian Exchange on ecology, agriculture, and culture from different perspectives.

6.2.8.B.4.h - Explain how the locations, land forms, and climates of Mexico, Central America, and South America affected the

development of Mayan, Aztec and Incan societies, cultures, and economies.

6.2.8.C.4.b - Analyze how trade, technology, the availability of natural resources, and contact with other civilizations affected the

development of empires in Eurasia & the Americas.




9.1.8.B.2 Assess data gathered to solve a problem for which there are varying perspectives (i.e., cross-cultural, gender-specific,

generational), and determine how the data can best be used to design multiple solutions.

LEARNING TARGETS

UNIT OVERVIEW



















texts.



& proficiently.



• South America has diverse physical features, resources, and cultures. Its history has helped shape the countries in Central

America and mainland South America. Spanish is the primary language in most South American and Central American nations.

Exceptions are Portuguese in Brazil, English in Belize and Guyana, Dutch in Suriname and French in French Guiana.

• South American nations have a history of great civilizations, colonialism, and struggles for independence.

• The physical beauty of the South America is one of the region's richest resources. Native & colonial influences are strong

on this continent.

• South America is extensively rich in natural resources. Gem stones, oil, gas, copper, silver, tropical fruits, corn, soybeans,

aluminum, metals, coal, chocolate, coffee, fish & cattle are just some of South America's exports.

• That most South Americans can trace their heritage back to African, Spanish & Native American people.

• The region's different climate zones and their impact on both humans & its physical geography are important features

effecting animal, human & plant life on this continent.

• South America is home to a number of famous physical features that are teaming with unique fauna & animals.

• South America is home to many natural disasters such as floods, earthquakes and wildfires.

• South America is home to the Amazon Rain Forest (the largest in the world), the Amazon River basin, the Andes

Mountains, Lake Titicaca Angel Falls, Orinoco River, Patagonia, Galapagos Islands, Falkland Islands, the Panama Canal,

volcanoes, deserts, and tropical rain forests.

• The Inca civilization prospered and stretched from Peru to Ecuador, Chile & Columbia.

• Many South American nations are developing quickly today in job growth and GDP (gross domestic product)

• South America stretches from deserts to rain forests to glaciers (an extensive coverage of climate zones)

• Central America is a region in the continent of South America.


• What languages do most South & Central Americans speak?

• Compare & contrast the physical geography of South America with Central America?

• Why is the Panama Canal an important water route to trade?

• How did Spain, Britain & Portugal lose their South American colonies to independence?

• Why do many South American countries have an immigration problem today?

• How did the Spanish influence South America?

• What forms did slave resistance and rebellion take in various South American countries?

• How did Spain and Portugal’s longer association with the people of Africa (compared to the British and the Dutch)

impact their attitudes toward slavery and affect the nature of slavery in Spanish and Portuguees colonies in South America?

• What primary raw materials come from South America today?

• What are the coldest & warmest regions of South America?

• Explain the relationship between the USA & South American countries today.

• Name the various problems South American countries faces today in resources, economics & society.

• Briefly describe the Inca civilization and its contributions to Peru and the region today.

• Describe the various climate zones of South America and their impact on it's people's lives.

• Describe the types of employment that exist in South America today in relation to its raw materials

• In which ways did the Spanish affect South America during colonial times?

• What factors help classify Brazil, Argentina & Peru as developing countries?

• How might the geography in the Andes mountains effect communication & travel in this region?

• What are some important factors that contribute to economic development in the Amazon region?

• How do the languages & culture of the South American region reflect the regions' history?

• How have large populations of people of African descent in various South American countries, especially in places such

as Brazil, impacted culture, politics and societal norms (e.g., acceptance of interracial marriage)?

• How does the Andes Mountain region impact the 'ring of fire' and what are its effects?

• How does the combination of rain & warmth impact the fragile ecosystem in the Amazon?

• Bolivia & Paraguay are landlocked nations in South America. How do these countries trade without ocean/sea access?



• key terms: Andes, Orinoco River, Bogota, guerillas, strike, referendum, Simon Bolivar, Amazon River, estuary,

deforestation, soil exhaustion, Sao Paulo, megacity, Rio de Janeiro, favelas, Brasilia, gauchos, landlocked, informal

economy, altiplano, strait, El Nino, Atacama desert, viceroy, creole, Quito, coup, Lima.

• key places: Central America, South America, Pacific Ocean, Caribbean Sea, South Atlantic Ocean

• that South American culture is a mix of African, (Spanish)European & Native cultures

• that different regions of South America reflect different levels of economic prosperity

• the different types of natural resources that South America contain and their usage.

• South America is a large continent with diverse physical features, climates & resources.

• that Brazil is a very large country with a southernly location, hot climates & rich resources.

• that many South American nations are quickly developing into 1st world countries due to their resources and increase in

technology

• that South American nations have a rich history & culture influenced by European colonization.

• most South American nations relied heavily on African slavery to work their sugar, coffee, tobacco & chocolate

plantations.

• that Brazil imported more African slaves than any other country in the Americas.

• that Brazil & Argentina were large refuges for World War II victims.

• that the 'ring of fire' traverses a large portion of the Andes Mountains.

• that the Andes Mountains are the longest chain of mountains in the world.

• that the Amazon River (volume) & Forest are the largest in the world.

• that Angel Falls in Venezuela are the tallest in the world.


• give examples how colonialism has effected every region of South America

• identify & compare & contrast the different regions of each Southern American country & region

• create a time line of important historical events in South America.

• give examples of how African & Native American slavery impacted trade, economics and culture in South America

• identify the various wars of independence in South America that shaped the continents borders, cultures and governments.

• give examples of both imports & exports of South America over the last 500 years.

• explain the various natural disasters that are common to South America and the reasons they exist.

• identify cities, regions and capitols of all major South American countries

• give examples of different climate zones and their vegetation in South America.

• identify the different levels of climate zones in the Andes Mountains.

• identify the various sectors of employment and their regions throughout South America

• identify developed countries, developing countries and non-developing countries in South America

• identify population densities throughout South America and why less vs. more

• how African slavery contributed to economic success in Brazil, Columbia, Venezuela, Suriname & the Guianas.

• identify Zumbi dos Palmares, who lead the Quilombo dos Palmares, a fugitive slave settlement in Brazil.

• understand the significance of Simon Bolivar, & Che Guevara to many South Americans today and in the past

Assessment:


• quizzes

• tests




• poster project (the Inca Empire or the Spanish Conquest of South America)


• NJ open-ended question(s)



• Venn Diagrams on governments & North American economies

• Bar & Line graphs outlining population, migration & density patterns in South America (census statistics)


• Unit packet reflecting various worksheets on South American climate zones, colonialism and population densities

• Journal entry - suppose you were taking a cruise in the Caribbean, which islands and cities (ports of call) would you like

to visit &why?

• K,W,L chart: showing 1,2,3 steps of the learning process thru Unit. What I Know, What I Want to learn, and What I Learned.

• Poster project comparing slave rebellions in various South American countries such as Ecuador, Peru, Suriname, Brazil.

• Internet research on how African slavery, Spanish Imperialism and Native Civilizations meshed to create 21st century South

America.


• the use of an Alternative Assessment Handbook, Rubric 13: Graphic Organizers

Teacher Resources:

Video/DVD

Various on-line pages & activities (i.e., Amazon ecosystem)






Equipment Needed:

Computers

TV

DVD player

Overhead projector

Computer projector

White Board

RESOURCES



Unit Title: Africa


Unit Summary: This unit will introduce students to the study of geography of the African continent and its nations, landscapes, oceans, regions &

people. Students will understand how the diverse physical features, resources & cultures have shaped the nations of Africa. Students will also

examine the history and cultures of these African countries and how they affect present day governments, economics & society in Africa.

Examination of current events such as immigration between neighboring countries and their relationship will also be studied. Students will

recognize the importance of many physical features such as the Sahara Desert, Congo Rain Forest and the Nile River and their ecosystems.



Standards:





Content Strand:


American groups.

6.2.8.D.1.c - Explain how archaeological discoveries are used to develop & enhance understanding of life prior to written records.

6.2.8.B.2.a - Determine the role of slavery in the economic & social structures of ancient river valley civilizations.

6.2.8.B.2.b - Compare & contrast physical & political maps of ancient river valley civilizations & their modern counterparts (Ancient

& Modern Egypt)

6.2.8.D.2.c - Analyze the factors that led to the rise & fall of various ancient river valley civilizations & determine whether there was a

common pattern of growth & decline.

6.2.8.B.4.c - Determine how Africa's physical geography & natural resources posed challenges & opportunities for trade &

development.



6.1.8.C.2.c - Analyze the impact of triangular trade on multiple nations & groups.

6.1.8.D.2.b -Compare & contrast the voluntary & involuntary migratory experiences of different groups of people, and explain why



commercialization.


6.2.8.C.4.d -Analyze the relationship between trade routes & the development of powerful city-states and kingdoms in Africa.

6.2.8.D.4.i - Explain how & why Islam spread in Africa, the significance of Timbuktu to the development & spread of learning, and

the impact Islam continues to have on African society.

6.2.8.A.2.c - Determine the role of slavery in the economic & social structures of ancient river valley civilizations.

6.2.8.B.4.d - Explain why the Arabian Peninsula's physical features & location made it the epicenter of Afro-Eurasian trade & fostered

the spread of Islam into Africa, Europe & Asia.

6.2.8.C.4.d - Analyze the relationship between trade routes and the development of powerful city-states and kingdoms in Africa.

LEARNING TARGETS

UNIT OVERVIEW























RH.6-8.7. Integrate visual information (i.e., in charts, graphs, photographs, videos, or maps) with other information in print and digital texts.



& proficiently.



Africa has diverse physical features, resources, and cultures. Its history has helped shape the countries in both Saharan &

Sub-Saharan Africa.

Arabic is the primary language in North African & most Central African nations. Many other European languages are

spoken throughout Africa due to its colonial history, but thousands of tribal and cultural dialects still exist throughout the

continent.

African nations have a history of great civilizations, colonialism, and struggles for independence.

The physical beauty of Africa is one of the continent's richest resources. Native & colonial influences are still strong on

this continent

Africa is extensively rich in natural resources. Gem stones, tourism, oil, gas, copper, silver, tropical fruits, corn, soybeans,

aluminum, metals, coal, chocolate, coffee, fish & cattle are just some of Africa's exports.

Africans have immense ethnic diversity. North Africans attribute their heritage back to Asia & Southern Africans

attribute their heritage to the origins of humanity in the 'Horn of Africa'.

the continent's different climate zones and their impact on both humans & its physical geography are important features

affecting animal, human & plant life on this continent.

Africa is home to a number of famous physical features that are teaming with unique fauna & animals.

Africa is home to many 3rd world nations that experience extreme poverty, government instability, corruption, wars,

disease and economic stagnation.

Africa is home to the Sahara desert (the largest & hottest in the world), the Nile River (the longest in the world), the

Congo River, the Suez Canal, the Atlas Mountains, Lake Victoria, Victoria Falls, Congo Rain Forest, Niger River, Rift

Valley, Madagascar, South Atlantic Ocean, Indian Ocean, Mediterranean Sea and the Red Sea.

Africa contains many island nations and archipelagos.

Most African nations are classified as 3rd world nations, but most in North Africa are developing today in job growth and

GDP (gross domestic product).

African landscapes stretch from deserts to rain forests.

Mount Kilamanjaro, located in Kenya, is the highest mountain on the continent. Most of the summit is frozen year round.


What languages & dialects are mostly spoken in Africa?

Compare & contrast the physical geography of North Africa with Sub-Saharan Africa?

Why is the Suez Canal an important water route to trade for Africa, Europe & Asia?

How did many European nations lose their African colonies to independence and why?

Why do many African countries have an immigration problem today?

How Europeans impact Africa and vice-versa?

What primary raw materials come from Africa today?

What are the coldest & warmest regions of Africa?

Explain the relationship between African resources and Asian, American & European markets.

Name the various problems African countries faces today in resources, economics & society.

What current events have recently occurred that have transformed many North African governments and why?

Briefly describe the Arabic civilization and its contributions to North Africa and the other regions.

How did Islam evolve over the last 1,300 years throughout Africa?

What other religions impact African cultures & people today?

Describe the various climate zones of Africa and their impact on its people's lives.

Describe the types of employment that exist in Africa today in relation to its raw materials.

In which ways did Europe affect Africa during colonial times?

What factors help classify South Africa, Tunisia & Egypt as developing countries?

How might the geography of the Atlas Mountains effect communication & travel in this region?

What are some important factors that contribute to the lack of economic development & population growth in the Sahara

region?

How do the languages & culture of the African region reflect the regions' history?

How does life in the desert differ from life in the rain forest of Africa?

What type of tourism does Africa's wildlife attract to its plains and savannas?

How does the combination of rain & warmth impact the fragile ecosystem in the Congo?

Many nations in Africa are landlocked. How do these countries trade without ocean/sea access?

How has corruption and government instability affected the countries and people of Africa?

What is the legacy of Nelson Mandela? In what ways do his actions and struggles explain the history of South Africa,

the continent of Africa in general, and the struggle for freedom around the world?

How has oil transformed Nigeria into an oil rich player in world markets?



key terms: Berbers, Islam, Muslims, oasis, silt, dictator, souks, free ports, savanna, desertification, animism, European

Slave Trade, famine, droughts, imperialism, safari, geothermal energy, genocide, periodic market, copper belt, dialects,

malaria, malnutrition, escarpment, Afrikaners, apartheid, Boers, Nelson Mandela

key places: Atlas Mountains, Sahara desert, Suez Canal, Congo Rain Forest, Congo River, Timbuktu, Nile River,

Alexandria, Cairo, Egypt, Sahel, Niger River, Mt. Kilimanjaro, Serengeti Plain, Lake Victoria, Darfur, Namib desert,

Cape of Good Hope

that Africa has many cultures and religions spread all over the continent.

that different regions of Africa reflect different levels of economic prosperity

the different types of natural resources that Africa contains and their usage.

Africa is a large continent with diverse physical features, climates & resources.

that the Sudan is the largest country in Africa and Seychelles is the smallest.

that most African nations are 3rd world nations and that only a few are developing into 4th world countries due to their

resources and increase in technology.

that African nations have a rich history & culture.

most African nations have been affected by European imperialism and are still recovering from colonialism today.

most western African were victimized by the slave trade to the Americas.

nations in America and Asia relied heavily on African slavery to work their sugar, coffee, tobacco & chocolate

plantations

many Africans have migrated to Europe and the Americas in order to find better lives.

the equator runs from Western Africa to Eastern Africa traversing the entire continent.

that the Atlas Mountains encompasses northwestern Africa and has very cold temperatures in winter.

that the Nile River is the longest river in the world and the reason for so many civilizations to have risen on its banks over

the years.

that Victoria Falls are the largest in Africa and so is Lake Victoria.


give examples how colonialism has effected every region of Africa over the centuries.

identify& compare & contrast the different regions of each North Africa and sub-Saharan Africa.

create a time line of important historical events in Africa.

give examples of how African slavery impacted trade, economics and culture in the Americas & Asia.

identify the various wars of independence in Africa that shaped the continents borders, policies, cultures and governments.

give examples of both imports & exports of Africa over the last 500 years.

explain the various catastrophes of famine, war, disease & drought that are common to Africa and the reasons they exist.

identify cities, regions and capitols of all major African countries • give examples of different climate zones and their vegetation

in Africa.

identify the different levels of climate zones on the African continent.

identify the various sectors of employment and their regions throughout Africa.

identify developed countries, developing countries and non-developing countries in Africa.

identify population densities throughout Africa and why less vs. more

how African slavery contributed to economic success in the Americas, Europe & Asia.

the significance of Nelson Mandela & Mohammed to many Africans today and in the past.

Assessment:


quizzes

tests

word keys & definitions

class debate & discussion

poster project (the Triangle Slave Trade)

unit packet (worksheets/ skill sheets to be graded)

NJ ASK open-ended question(s)



Venn Diagrams on governments & African economies

Bar & Line graphs outlining population, migration & density patterns in Africa

Coloring maps/climate zones

Unit packet reflecting various worksheets on African climate zones, colonialism and population densities

Students will compare and contrast the histories and geographies of various ancient African civilizations: Kemet (Egypt),

Kush (Nubia), Ghana, Mali, Songhay. Class may choose to complete this activity either visually or in writing (e.g.,

poster, essay, oral presentation, PowerPoint, journal entry, etc.)

Journal entry - suppose you were to travel to the slave coast of Western Africa to visit the various slave forts. What would

you see and how would you describe these places?

K,W,L chart: showing 1,2,3 steps of the learning process thru Unit. What I Know, What I Want to learn, and what I

Learned.

Internet research on how African slavery, European Imperialism and how natural resources from Africa impact our 21st

century needs.

Unit/Chapter Reviews at end of units & chapters.

the use of an Alternative Assessment Handbook, Rubric 13: Graphic Organizers

Teacher Resources:

Video/DVD

Various on-line pages & activities (i.e., Life in the Sahara - the Berbers)






Equipment Needed:

Computers

TV

DVD player

Overhead projector

Computer projector

White Board

RESOURCES




Unit Title: Europe


Unit Summary: This unit will introduce students to the study of geography of the European continent and its nations, landscapes, oceans, regions

& people. Students will understand how the diverse physical features, resources & cultures have shaped the nations of Europe. Students will also

examine the history and cultures of these European countries and how they affect present-day governments, economics & society in Europe.

Examination of current events such as immigration from neighboring countries and their relationship will also be studied. Students will recognize

the importance of many physical features such as the Alps Mountains, Rhine River, Mediterranean Sea, North Sea, Baltic Sea, Adriatic Sea, Volga

River and their relevance to its people and geography.



Standards:





Content Strand:


American groups.

6.2.8.D.1.c - Explain how archaeological discoveries are used to develop & enhance understanding of life prior to written records.



6.1.8.C.2.c - Analyze the impact of Triangle Trade on multiple nations & groups.




commercialization.


6.2.8.B.3.a - Determine how geography and the availability of natural resources influenced the development of the political,

economic, and cultural systems of each of the classical civilizations & provided motivation for expansion.

6.2.8.B.3.b - Explain how geography & the availability of natural resources led both the development of Greek city-states & to their

demise.

6.2.8.D.4.d - Analyze the causes & outcomes of the Crusades from different perspectives, including the perspectives of European

political & religious leaders, the crusaders, Jews, Muslims, and traders.

6.2.8.D.4.e - Assess the demographic, economic, and religious impact of the plague on Europe.

6.2.8.B.4.a - Explain how geography influenced the development of the political, economic, and cultural centers of each empire and

well as the empires' relationship with other parts of the world.






LEARNING TARGETS

UNIT OVERVIEW



















texts.



& proficiently.



• Europe has diverse physical features, resources, and cultures. Its history has helped shape the countries in Northern

Europe, Southern Europe & Central Europe.

• Europe is home to most of the primary world languages such as English, Spanish & French. Many other popular

languages such as Dutch, Portuguese &Italian are spoken widely worldwide as well as European foods, traditions,

culture& government.

• European nations have a history of great civilizations, imperialism and conquest.

• The physical beauty of Europe and its cities is one of the continent's richest resources. People travel from all over the

world to see the culture and traditions of Paris, London & Rome, just to name a few of the major European cities

throughout the continent.

• Europe is not rich in natural resources. Many raw materials are imported from other parts of the world in order to satisfy

its large population and production of exports.

• Of the few natural resources Europe has, oil reserves are plentiful in the North Sea as well as fishing in the same region,

lumber in its northern woods and coal in its central plains.

• Europeans have immense ethnic diversity. Europeans trace their heritage back to numerous tribes such as the Germanics,

Franks, Anglo-Saxons, Celts, Iberians, Visigoths and Suevi, to name a few. These tribes once ruled large portions of the

European continent.

• the continent's different climate zones and their impact on both humans & its physical geography are important features


• Europe is home to a number of famous physical features that have their own ecosystems, although large human

population have driven many indigenous animals to extinction.

• Europe is home to many 1st world nations that experience government stability, growing employment, high standards of

living and high literacy rates.

• Europe is home to the Atlantic Ocean, Mediterranean Sea, Adriatic Sea, North Sea, Baltic Sea, the Alps Mountains,

Pyrenees Mountains, Balkan states, Northern European Plain, Volga River and the Danube River.

• Europe contains many island nations and archipelagos in the Atlantic Ocean and Adriatic Sea.

• Most European nations are classified as 1st world nations, but most in Eastern Europe are still developing today in job

growth and GDP (gross domestic product).

• Most of Eastern Europe is still recovering from the effects of World War I & II.

• Europe stretches from the Atlantic Ocean to western Asia.

• Most of Western Europe is part of the economic European Union (EU) since the 1980's. This single unit currency (euro)

zone has brought economic stability, unity and prosperity to most of Europe in the last few years.

• Most of Western Europe belongs to N.A.T.O. (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) that unifies western Europe & North

America in case one nation of either region is attacked, the others will defend it.

• Many castles, palaces & forts dot Europe's geography due to its long history of battles, monarchies and territorial bouts.


• What languages & religions are common to Europe?

• Compare & contrast the physical geography of North, Central & Southern Europe?

• Why is the Mediterranean Sea an important sea way for trade, fishing & travel?

• How have the numerous wars & battles shaped the face of European cultures and geography over the years?

• How is Europe managing its migration problems with Eastern Europe & Africa today?

• What are the different roles that various European nations played in the origins of the European Slave Trade?

• What are some examples of early contact between North Africa and the Iberian Peninsula?

• How would you characterize the earliest presence of Africans in various European countries?

• What role did Spain and Portugal’s longer association with people of Africa (compared to other European nations) play in

their attitudes toward Africans and their relationship to the slave trade?

• How would you characterize Europe’s relationship with Africa over time?

• How does European innovation, culture and exports impact the world today?

• What products are produced for world markets today?

• What are the coldest & warmest regions of Europe, and describe their differences?

• Explain the relationship between European products and Asian, American & African markets.

• Name the various problems European countries face today in resources, economics & society.

• What current events have recently occurred that have effected European society & safety today?

• What impact does the EU have on the world today?

• How have the various world religions impacted European society over the centuries?

• What other religions impact European cultures & people today?

• Describe the various climate zones of Europe and their impact on its people's lives.

• Describe the types of employment that exist in Europe today in relation to its raw materials & products.

• In which ways has Europe affected its own borders & geography with its past wars?

• How might the geography of the Alps Mountains affect communication & travel in this region?

• What are some important factors that contribute to the economic development & population growth in Europe?

• How has an aging European population impacted future growth in Europe?

• How does life in Northern Europe differ from life in Southern Europe?

• What type of tourism does Europe experience?

• What types of natural disasters occur in Europe and why?

• Many nations in Europe are landlocked. How do these countries trade without ocean/sea access?

• How has the EU helped European nations prosper economically?

• How have Europeans such as Adolf Hitler, Alexander the Great, Napoleon, Julius Caesar, David Beckham and Queen

Elizabeth impacted European society?

• How has oil transformed Norway and Britain into oil rich players in world markets?



• key terms: Mediterranean climate, pope, Vatican City, parliamentary monarchy, navigable river, cosmopolitan, EU,

NATO, chancellor, cantons, fjords, geothermal energy, North Atlantic drift, constitutional monarchy, Magna Carta,

disarm, Vikings, neutral, uninhabitable, geysers, Chernobyl, infrastructure, ethnic cleansing, czar, gulags, Trans-Siberian

Railroad

• key places: Alps Mountains, Volga River, North Sea, Mediterranean Sea, Atlantic Ocean, Paris, London, Rome, Iberian

Peninsula, Pyrenees Mountains, Baltics, Black Sea, Prague, Dublin, Madrid, Scandinavia, British Isles, Brussels,

Amsterdam, Venice

• that Brussels, Belgium is the European capitol of the EU.

• that winter sports such as hockey are very popular in Northern & Central Europe and soccer is its most popular sport.

• that different regions of Europe reflect different levels of economic prosperity

• the different types of natural resources that Europe contains and their usage.

• Europe is a small continent with diverse physical features, climates & resources.

• that the Russia is the largest country in Europe and Vatican City is the smallest.

• that most European nations are 1st world nations and that only a few in Eastern Europe are developing into 4th world

countries due to their resources and increase in technology.

• that European nations have a rich history & culture.

• most European nations have effected most of the world through forced imperialism.

• Europe has prospered due to usage of foreign resources & workforce.

• Most countries in Europe today use the euro as the single currency.

• Many migrants from Africa, South America & Asia have moved to Europe pursuing better lives and jobs.

• Most of Europe lies in the temperate climate zones of the northern hemisphere.

• that the Alps Mountains encompasses central Europe and has very cold temperatures in winter.

• that the Volga River is the longest river in Europe and there are many large & long rivers in Europe that contribute to

easy travel &trade throughout the continent.

• that Iceland is a European island nation and is located north west of the European continent.


• give examples how imperialism has effected every region of Europe over the centuries.

• identify& compare & contrast the different regions of each region of Europe.

• create a time line of important historical events in European history..

• give examples of how European imperialism has impacted trade, economics and culture throughout the world.

• identify the various wars in Europe that have shaped the continents borders, policies, cultures and governments.

• give examples of both imports & exports of Europe over the last 500 years.

• explain the various catastrophes of war, floods, earthquakes, wildfires, drought and volcanic eruptions that have inflicted

Europe over time.

• identify cities, regions and capitols of all major European countries • give examples of different climate zones and their

vegetation in Europe.

• identify the different levels of climate zones on the European continent.

• identify the various sectors of employment and their regions throughout Europe.

• identify developed countries, developing countries in Europe.

• identify population densities throughout Europe and why less vs. more.

• how European Imperialism contributed to economic success on the continent even today.

• the significance of N.A.T.O and the EU to European prosperity, stability and security.

Assessment:


• quizzes

• tests



• poster project (European Imperialism throughout the globe & its consequences)





• Venn Diagrams on governments & European economies

• Bar & Line graphs outlining population, migration & density patterns in Europe


• Unit packet reflecting various worksheets on European climate zones, colonialism and population densities

• Journal entry - (suppose you were a wealthy European moving to Africa or the Americas in the 18th century, write about

your experience at sea as you sail towards your new home and your plans/expectations.

• Students will research the history of the Moors in the Iberian Peninsula (Spain and Portugal) and present their findings to

the class in the form of a visual or oral presentation or both.

• Students will create a chart summarizing the role played by the following European powers in the slave trade: Portugal,

Spain, the Netherlands, Great Britain, France.

• K,W,L chart: showing 1,2,3 steps of the learning process thru Unit. What I Know, What I Want to learn, and What I Learned.

• Internet research on how European Imperialism has led to EU economic dominance in the world.


• the use of an Alternative Assessment Handbook, Rubric 13: Graphic Organizers

Teacher Resources:

Video/DVD

Various on-line pages & activities (i.e., Europe's declining population - Why is it a problem?)


Overhead transparencies (maps, charts, graphs)




RESOURCES


Equipment Needed:

Computers

TV

DVD player

Overhead projector

Computer projector

White Board



Unit Title: Asia


Unit Summary: This unit will introduce students to the study of geography of Asia and its physical and human geography, nations, borders,

oceans, regions, people and culture. Students will understand how the diverse physical features, resources and cultures have shaped the nations of

Asia. Students will also examine the history and cultures of these Asian countries and how they affect present day governments, economics and

society in Asia. Examination of current events such as immigration between neighboring countries and their relationship will also be studied as well

as social conflicts in past and present. Students will recognize the importance and location of many physical features such as the Himalayas, Gobi

Desert, Arabian Peninsula, Dead Sea, and the social aspects of Islam, Judaism, Buddhism, Hinduism and terrorism that inflict this region and the

rich history of India, China and the Middle East.



Standards:


All students will acquire the knowledge and skills to think analytically & systematically about how past interactions of people, cultures, and the

environment affect issues across time and cultures. Such knowledge and skills enable students to make informed decisions as socially and ethically


Content Strand:

6.2.8.D.1.c - Explain how archaeological discoveries are used to develop and enhance understanding of life prior to written records.

6.2.8.B.2.b - Compare & contrast physical & political maps of ancient river valley civilizations and their modern counterparts (Ancient

and Modern Egypt/Pakistan/India/Ancient and Modern China) and determine the geopolitical impact of these civilizations, then and

now.

6.2.8.D.2.c - Analyze the factors that led to the rise and fall of various ancient river valley civilizations and determine whether there was a

common pattern of growth and decline.

6.1.8.C.1.b - Explain why individuals and societies trade, how trade functions, and the role of trade during this period.

6.1.8.D.2.b- Compare & contrast the voluntary and involuntary migratory experiences of different groups of people, and explain why


6.2.8.C.4.a - Explain the interrelationships among improved agricultural production, population growth, urbanization, and commercialization.

6.2.8.A.2.c - Determine the role of slavery in the economic and social structures of ancient river valley civilizations.

6.2.8.B.4.d - Explain why the Arabian Peninsula's physical features and location made it the epicenter of Afro-Eurasian trade and fostered

the spread of Islam into Africa, Europe & Asia.

6.2.8.C.3.a - Analyze the impact of expanding land and sea trade routes through the Mediterranean Basin, India, and China.

6.2.8.D.3.b - Relate the Chinese dynastic system to the longevity of authoritarian rule in China.

6.2.8.D.3.c - Determine common factors that contributed to the decline and fall of the Roman Empire, Gupta India, and Han China.

6.2.8.D.3.d - Compare the golden ages of Greece, Rome, India, Africa, and China, and justify major achievements that represent world

legacies.

6.2.8.D.3.e - Compare and contrast the tenets of various world religions that developed in or around this time (i.e., Buddhism,

Christianity, Confucianism, Islam, Judaism, Sikhism, and Taoism), their patterns of expansion, and their responses to

the current challenges of globalization.

6.2.8.B.4.b - Assess how maritime and overland trade routes (i.e., the African caravan and Silk Road) impacted urbanization,

transportation, communication, and the development of international trade centers.

6.2.8.B.4.d - Explain why the Arabian Peninsula's physical features & location made it the epicenter of Afro-Eurasian trade & fostered

the spread of Islam into Africa, Europe, and Asia

6.2.8.B.4.f - Explain how the geographies of China and Japan influenced their development & their relationship with one another.

6.2.8.D.2.a - Analyze the impact of religion on daily life, government, and culture in various ancient river valley civilizations.

LEARNING TARGETS

UNIT OVERVIEW

6.2.8.C.4.e - Determine the extent to which interaction between the Islamic world and medieval Europe increased trade, enhanced

technology innovation, and impacted scientific thought and the arts.

6.2.8.D.4.h - Determine the extent to which the Byzantine Empire influenced the Islamic world and western Europe.








9.1.8.C.3 Model leadership skills during classroom and extra-curricular activities.

9.1.4.D.3 Demonstrate an awareness of one's own culture and other cultures during interactions within & outside of the classroom.






RH.6-8.1. Cite specific textual evidence to support analysis of primary and secondary sources.





RH.6-8.4. Determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text, including vocabulary specific to domains related to




texts.


RH.6-8.10. By the end of grade 8, read and comprehend history/social studies texts in grades 6 - 8 text complexity band independently

and proficiently.



Asia has diverse physical features, resources, and cultures. Its history has helped shape the countries in the Middle East,

Southwest Asia, Central Asia, South Asia, East Asia & the Pacific.

Arabic is the primary language in the Middle East but many other languages are spoken throughout mainland Asia.

Thousands of tribal and cultural dialects still exist throughout the continent.

Asian nations have a history of great civilizations, colonialism, and struggles for independence.

Terrorism and religious friction continues amongst Jews & Palestinians in the Middle East as well as many other regions

and nations such as Pakistan & Iraq.

The physical beauty of Asia is one of the continent's richest resources. Native & colonial influences are still strong on this

continent such as in India.

Religion is a primary focus amongst most Asians and is what motivates much of its law, tradition, culture & government.

Asia is extensively rich in natural resources. Tourism, oil, gas, copper, tea, silver, tropical fruits, corn, soybeans,

aluminum, metals, rubber, coal, fish & cattle are just some of Asia's exports.

Enormous economical gains have been achieved in China, Taiwan, India, Japan & South Korea & that many of our

electronics &cars now are imported from there.

Asians have immense ethnic diversity. From Russians, Hindi, Jews, Arabs, Japanese, Chinese, Indonesians, Asians are as

diverse as any continent comes.

Russia lies primarily in the continent of Asia.

Asia is by far the largest continent in the world.

the continent's different climate zones and their impact on both humans & its physical geography are important features


Asia is home to a number of famous physical features that are teaming with unique fauna & animals.

Asia is home to many 3rd world nations that experience extreme poverty, government instability, corruption, wars,

disease and economic stagnation.

Asia contains some of the most spectacular physical features in the world. The tallest mountain range in the world, the

Himalayas, Gobi Desert, Pacific & Indian Oceans, Ganges River, Indonesian Rain Forest, Yangzi River, Mt. Fuji,

Arabian Desert, Euphrates & Tigris Rivers.

Asia also contains some of the most impressive man made structures in the world such as the Great Wall of China, the Taj

Mahal, Angkor Wat, Jerusalem & Istanbul.

• Asia contains many island nations and archipelagos, especially in the South Pacific.

• Oil is the most abundant & common natural resource in the Middle East and often rules government policy in this region.

• Most Asian nations are classified as 3rd world nations, but most in the East are developing today in job growth and GDP

(gross domestic product), such as China & India.

• Japan is the richest nation in Asia, second by China.

• Asia stretches from Europe to North America.

• Mount Everest, located in Nepal/China, is the highest mountain on the continent (approx. 30,000 ft). The summit is

frozen year round.

• China has the largest population in Asia & in the world approx. 2 billion people, second by India at approx. 1.8 billion

• 2 out 3 humans live in Asia

• Many countries in the Middle East are ruled by stringent rulers such absolute monarchies & dictators.

• North Korea & China are communist regimes.

• Islam is the most popular religion in the Middle East, Indonesia & Central Asia.

• Indonesia contains the most Muslims in all the world.

• the Silk Road was a main artery of commerce, trade & communication between Europe, Africa & Asia for thousands of

years.


• What languages & dialects are mostly spoken in Asia?

• Compare & contrast the physical & human geography of the Middle East, Central, South, Southwest & Pacific Asia.

• Why is the Black Sea & the Mediterranean Sea important water ways to western Asia?

• Why are the Euphrates & Tigris Rivers the most important rivers in the Middle East? How do these rivers affect the lives

of the people who live nearby?

• How does migration, both voluntary and involuntary account for the African presence in Asian nations today?

• How might we compare the Indian Ocean Slave Trade to the Atlantic Slave Trade in the same period?

• Why does Pakistan have the largest population of people of African descent in South Asia?

• What accounts for the large number of people of African descent in India?

• How did many European nations impact India, the Koreas & Japan and why?

• Why does the USA maintain a strong military presence in South Korea?

• Why do many Asian countries have an immigration problem today?

• How Asians impact the world and vice-versa?

• What part does Asia have in globalization?

• What primary raw materials come from Asia today?

• What secondary (man-made) products does Asia export?

• What are the coldest & warmest regions of Asia?

• Explain the relationship between Asian resources and American & European markets.

• Name the various problems Asian countries face today in stability, resources, economics & society.

• What current events have recently occurred that have transformed many Asian nations' governments and why?

• Briefly describe the Arabic civilization and its contributions to the Middle East and the other regions.

• How did Islam's birth & development expand over the last 1,300 years throughout the Middle East?

• What other religions impact Asian cultures & people today?

• Describe the various climate zones of Asia and their impact on it's people's lives.

• Describe the types of employment that exist in Asia today in relation to its raw materials.

• What factors help classify India, China & Dubai as developing countries?

• Why have the Saudi Emirate countries become some of the richest & dramatically growing economies in the world?

• How might the geography of the Himalaya Mountains effect communication & travel in this region?

• What are some important factors that contribute to the lack of economic development & population growth in the Central

& Southwest regions of Asia?

• How do the languages & culture of Asia reflect the regions' history & traditions?

• How does life in the desert differ from life in the rain forest of Indonesia?

• What type of tourism does Asia's wildlife attract to its rain forests & islands?

• How does the combination of rain & warmth impact the fragile ecosystem in Indonesia?

• Many nations in Asia are landlocked. How do these countries trade without ocean/sea access?

• How has corruption and government instability affected the countries and people of Asia?

• How have the wars in Iraq & Afghanistan effected the people in these regions?

• How has oil transformed the Middle East & Russia into a oil rich players in world markets?

• Floods, tsunamis & monsoons torment southwest Asian populations yearly.

• Mohandas Gandhi is a hero to all Indians who recognize him as the peaceful freedom fighter for his nation of India.

• Both Hong Kong & Macau were returned to China from European nations in the 1980's after 500 years of European

Imperialism.



• key terms: secular, zionism, kosher, oasis, fossil water, sunni, shia, OPEC, embargo, shah, revolution, theocracy,

landlocked, nomads, yurt, Taliban, arable, monsoons, delta, colony, partition, Hinduism, Buddhism, caste system,

urbanization, Mumbai, Mohandas Gandhi, green revolution, sherpas, dynasty, dialect, Daoism, Confucianism, pagodas,

command economy, tsunami, fishery, samurai, tariff, demilitarized zone, archipelago, domino theory, wats, human rights,

sultan

• key places: Himalayas Mts. Ganges River, Euphrates River, Tigris River, Yangtze River, Pacific & Indian Oceans, Dead

Sea, Arabian Desert, Mediterranean Sea, Black Sea, Syrian Desert, Istanbul, Gaza, Jerusalem, Persian Gulf, Baghdad, Mt.

Everest, Indus River, North China Plain, Hong Kong, Tibet, Mt. Fuji, Tokyo, Indochina Peninsula, Java, Manila

• that Asia has many cultures and religions spread all over the continent.

• that different regions of Asia reflect different levels of economic prosperity

• the different types of natural resources that Asia contains and their usage.

• Asia is a large continent with diverse physical features, climates & resources.

• that China is the largest country in Asia and the Maldives is the smallest.

• that most Asian nations are 3rd world countries and that a few are developing into 4th world countries due to their

resources and increase in technology. But a number of them such as Japan, Singapore & South Korea are 1st world

nations.

• that Asian nations have a rich history & culture.

• many Asian nations have been affected by European imperialism and are still recovering from colonialism today.

• Nations in the Middle East relied heavily in African slavery from Africa's east coast to work as slaves on large farms of

wheat, barley & rice.

• Many Asians have migrated to Europe and the Americas in order to find better lives.

• the equator runs through the Pacific Asian nations creating hot & humid conditions especially in the Indonesian rain

forest.

• that the Himalayas are a large mountain range that runs along the Nepal/China border in Central Asia.

• that the Yangzi River is the longest river in Asia and is the reason for so many civilizations to have risen on its banks over

the years.

• that the Dead Sea is the saltiest sea in the world.

• that the Gobi Desert is the coldest desert in the world.

• that the 'ring of fire' traverses all of eastern Asia and creates an active series of volcanos & earthquakes along the Pacific

Rim that impacts millions of lives daily.


• give examples how colonialism has effected many regions of Asia over the centuries.

• identify, compare & contrast the different regions of each Asia.

• create a time line of important historical events in Asia.

• give examples of how African slavery impacted trade, economics and culture in Asia.

• identify the various wars in Asia that have shaped the continents borders, policies, cultures and governments.

• give examples of both imports & exports of Asia.

• explain the various catastrophes of floods, drought, war, monsoons, tsunamis that are common to Asia and the reasons

they exist.

• identify cities, regions and capitols of all major Asian countries

• give examples of different climate zones and their vegetation in Asia.

• identify the different levels of climate zones on the Asian continent and their impact on life there.

• identify the various sectors of employment and their regions throughout Asia.

• identify developed countries, developing countries and non-developing countries in Asia.

• identify population densities throughout Asia and why less vs. more

• how enslavement contributed to economic success in western Asia.

• show the significance of Genghis Khan, Mohandas Gandhi & Mohammed to many Asians today and in the past.

• explain the importance of technology to Japanese, Korean & Chinese products being exported worldwide.

Assessment:


• quizzes

• tests



• poster project (the Silk Road)






Venn Diagrams on Asian governments & economies.

Bar and Line graphs outlining population, migration and density patterns in Asia


Unit packet reflecting various worksheets on Asian climate zones, colonialism and population densities

Journal entry - suppose you were to travel on the Silk Road 600 years ago. What would you see and describe these places? Mention

the dangers and rewards of traveling years through Asia

K,W,L chart: showing 1,2,3 steps of the learning process thru Unit. What I Know, What I Want to Learn, and what I Learned.

African Diaspora in the Indian Ocean Project: students will conduct research on the presence and history of Africans in India

through an exploration of India’s various regions and the particular characteristics and status of those living in each area. Regions

to be considered are the following: Gujarat, Bengal, Deccan, Goa, and Hyderabad. Students should additionally research the

contemporary status of Siddis, African Indians. Students should summarize research in a brief report or in a poster project.

Internet research on how China, Japan and South Korea command the car and electronics market today and their part in

globalization

Unit/Chapter Reviews at end of units and chapters.


Teacher Resources:

Video/DVD

Various on-line pages & activities (i.e., Tsunamis & Earthquakes - Japan's Fears!)






Equipment Needed:

Computers

TV

DVD player

Overhead projector

Computer projector

White Board

RESOURCES



Unit Title: Australia, Antarctica and the Pacific World


Unit Summary: This unit will introduce students to the study of geography of Australia, Antarctica and the Pacific World. The physical and human

geography of these continents and regions include close study of its nations, borders, oceans, regions, people, history and culture. Students will

understand how the diverse physical features, resources and cultures have shaped the nations of Australia, Antarctica and the Pacific World.

Students will also examine the history and cultures of these countries and how they affect present day governments, economics and society in

Australia, Antarctica and the Pacific World. Examination of current events such as immigration between neighboring countries and their

relationship will also be studied as well as the usage of Antarctica as a scientific research base for many countries. Students will recognize the

importance and location of many physical features such as the Australian Outback, Great Barrier Reef, Ayers Rock, Uluru landforms, Easter Island,

Pacific Isles, the hot springs of New Zealand, Pacific atolls, Antarctica's polar desert, ice shelves, glaciers & icebergs. Human geography will

encompass the Asian and European migration to this region and its impact till this day.



Standards:


All students will acquire the knowledge and skills to think analytically and systematically about how past interactions of people, cultures, and the

environment affect issues across time and cultures. Such knowledge and skills enable students to make informed decisions as socially and ethically


Content Strand:

6.2.8.D.1.c - Explain how archaeological discoveries are used to develop and enhance understanding of life prior to written records.

6.1.8.C.1.b - Explain why individuals and societies trade, how trade functions, and the role of trade during this period.

6.1.8.D.2.b- Compare and contrast the voluntary and involuntary migratory experiences of different groups of people, and explain why



commercialization.

6.2.8.B.4.b - Assess how maritime and overland trade routes (i.e., the African caravan and Silk Road) impacted urbanization,

transportation, communication, and the development of international trade centers.

6.1.8.C.1.a - Evaluate the impact of science, religion, and technology innovations on European exploration.

6.2.8.B.1.a - Explain the various migratory patterns of hunters and gatherers who moved from Africa to Eurasia, Australia, and the

Americas, and describe the impact of migration on their lives and on the shaping of societies.


Content Strand (CPI):







9.1.8.C.3 Model leadership skills during classroom and extra-curricular activities.

9.1.4.D.3 Demonstrate an awareness of one's own culture and other cultures during interactions within & outside of the classroom.



LEARNING TARGETS

UNIT OVERVIEW









RH.6-8.4. Determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text, including vocabulary specific to domains related to




texts.



and proficiently.



Australia, New Zealand and the rest of the Pacific World have diverse physical features, resources, and cultures. Its

history has helped shape these countries into a unique region.

English is the primary language in both Australia and New Zealand and many other small Pacific islands. Other

languages and dialects such as Melanesian and Polynesian are spoken widely in the Pacific island nations. Antarctica has

no official language since it is not an official independent nation.

Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific world nations share a common history of early Asian migration as well as

European colonization.

Aborigines are an example of nomadic people who settled in Australia and other islands in the South Pacific early on,

All early settlers to this region from Asia arrived by archaic boat/raft. Their method of navigational accomplishment is

still be studied today.

Most English speaking countries in this region practice Christianity, many other island cultures practice animism,

Buddhism and Confucianism imported from Eastern and Central Asia.

The physical beauty of Australia, New Zealand and Polynesia is one of the greatest attractions to tourists and visitors.

Native and colonial influences are still strong in Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific Islands. Antarctica attracts

scientists and researchers from all over the world to study environment and wildlife in the region. A growing number of

tourists are beginning to come to Antarctica for its wildlife and unique beauty.

Both Australia and Antarctica are the only island continents in the world

Australia, Antarctica and the Pacific Islands are not rich in natural resources. Wool, meat and dairy products are the

largest exports from Australia and New Zealand, while banking and tourism are important industries here. The Pacific

Islands produce some agriculture, coffee, oil, gold, copper and tourism is also an important staple of this region.

There is on-going research in this region of the world to locate oil, gas, gold and other precious metals.

Both Australia and New Zealand are rich economically and considered 1st world nations with stable and democratic

governments.

Most of the Pacific Islands are growing slowly economically and considered 4th world nations.

Most Australians and New Zealanders trace their heritage to British immigrants while the Pacific Islanders trace their

heritages to China, Indonesia, Japan and India.

This entire region lies in the planet's southern hemisphere and for the exception of Antarctica and New Zealand, has

warm climates.

This entire region has reverse seasons from the northern continents.

Australia is the smallest continent in the world.

Many of the Pacific islands and New Zealand lie within the 'ring of fire' in the Pacific Ocean with many active and

dormant volcanoes with frequent earthquakes.

Australia, Antarctica and the Pacific Islands contain many different climate zones. This impacts greatly both its humans

and physical geography. A very wide variety of animal, human and plant life exist on these continents & region.

Australia, New Zealand, Antarctica and the Pacific Islands contain fauna and animals that exist nowhere else in the world.

Australia, Antarctica and the Pacific Islands contain very small populations in comparison to their enormous territorial

size.

Australia, Antarctica and the Pacific Islands contain some very interesting and unique physical features such as the

Australian Outback, Great Barrier Reef, Ayers Rock, Uluru land forms, Easter Island, Pacific Isles, the hot springs of

New Zealand, Pacific atolls, Antarctica's polar desert, ice shelves, glaciers & icebergs.

Australia also contains some very impressive cities such as Melbourne, Sydney and Canberra. New Zealand contains

Auckland and Wellington.

The Pacific Islands contain many island nations, atolls and archipelagos,

Most Pacific nations are classified as 4th world nations, but most seem to have stagnated in this position.

Australia is the richest nation in this region.

This region stretches from the mid-South Pacific Ocean to the mid-Indian Ocean.

The Australian Outback encompasses most of northwestern Australia and is a very harsh and hot region.

Rainfall is very rare in Australia and thus droughts are frequent.

British explorers arrived in this area in the 18th century and began colonizing these vast islands.

Soccer, cricket & rugby are popular sports in Australia and New Zealand.

Concerns recently of melting ice sheets & glaciers in Antarctica concern people in this area since most populations live

near the shoreline and at sea level.

Several countries such as the USA, Britain, Chile & Australia have claimed territory in Antarctica for scientific research.

Easter Island contains large mysterious statues that baffle scientists today. There origins are unknown and attract

thousands of tourists yearly.

Tasmania is a large Australian island located to the continent's south.

Many animals are indigenous to Australia such as the kangaroo, koala bear, dingo and the Tasmanian devil.

People from New Zealand are called 'kiwi's'.


What languages and dialects are mostly spoken in Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific Islands?

Compare and contrast the physical and human geography of Australia, New Zealand, Antarctica and the Pacific Islands.

How does life on these islands make it difficult for governments and their people to travel, trade and communicate?

How has British colonialism affected Australia and New Zealand today?

How have Asian migration affected the Pacific islands region?

What type of government relations do Australia, New Zealand and the rest of the Pacific World have with other nations

outside of this region?

Why do so many Asian citizens try to immigrate to both Australia & New Zealand? What type of work do they look for?

Why is global warming important to not only the people in this region but to the entire earth's population?

What part does Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific Islands have in globalization?

What primary raw materials come from Australia, Antarctica and the Pacific Islands today?

What secondary (man-made) products does Australia, New Zealand & the Pacific Islands produce & export?

What are the coldest and warmest regions of this region?

Explain the relationship between Australian, New Zealand and Pacific Island resources and American and European

markets.

Name the various problems this region faces today in stability, resources, economics & society.

What current events have recently occurred that have impacted this region?

Briefly describe British Imperialism & colonialism in relation to Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific Islands.

What other religions impact this region today?

Describe the various climate zones of Australia, Antarctica and the Pacific Islands and their impact on its people's and

animals’ lives.

Describe the types of employment that exist in this region today in relation to its raw materials.

What is the South African National Antarctic Programme?

What accounts for the phenomenon of recent migration of Africans to countries such as Australia and New Zealand?

What is the social, political, economic, and cultural status of those small populations of Africans residing in Australia and

New Zealand?

What factors help classify the Pacific Islands as developing countries (4th world)?

Why has Australia prospered greatly in comparison to its neighboring countries?

What are some important factors that contribute to the lack of economic development & population growth in the Pacific

Islands?

How do the languages and culture of Australia, New Zealand & the Pacific Islands reflect the regions' history and

traditions?

How does life in the Outback differ from life in the cities and near the coast in Australia?

What type of tourism does Australia's wildlife attract to its Outback & islands?

How does the combination of hot weather and droughts effect the people, fauna & animals of Australia?

How has the risk of earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and tsunamis effected the lives and geography of this region?

What type of people live in Antarctica?

What is the Great Barrier Reef and why is it unique?

How are the governments of New Zealand & Australia similar and how do they differ from the government in the USA?

Why is Ayers Rock considered a scared place to native peoples?



key terms: coral reef, aborigines, atoll, territory, ice shelf, icebergs, ozone layer, polar desert, colonialism

key places: Australia, New Zealand, Antarctica, Pacific Ocean, Tasmania, Great Barrier Reef, Outback, Micronesia,

Melanesia, Polynesia, Antarctic Peninsula, Easter Island

that the Pacific Islands region has many cultures and religions spread all over the continent.

that different regions of the Pacific Island world reflect different levels of economic prosperity

the different types of natural resources that the Pacific Islands region contain are limited.

Australia is a large island continent with diverse physical features, climates and resources.

that Australia is the only island continent nation in the world.

that Australia and New Zealand are 1st world countries with many 4th world nation islands surrounding them.

that the Pacific region has a rich history and culture.

that many Pacific island nations have been effected by European imperialism and colonialism and are still recovering

from it today.

Nations in this region rely heavily from imports from Asia and the Americas.

Many Asians have migrated to Australia and New Zealand in order to find better lives.

the Pacific Islands are mostly hot and humid year round.

that the terrain in New Zealand is much more mountainous then anywhere else in this region.

that there are 2 major river systems in Australia - the Darling and Murray Rivers in the southeast Australian region.

that the Outback is a desert in Australia.

that New Zealand is broken into 2 main islands.

that the 'ring of fire' traverses all of western Pacific and creates an active series of volcanoes and earthquakes along the

Pacific Rim

that impacts millions of lives daily in this region.


give examples how colonialism and imperialism has effected many regions of the Pacific Islands over the centuries.

identify, compare and contrast the different regions of each the Pacific World.

create a time line of important historical events in the Pacific region..

give examples of how island living impacts trade, economics and cultures in the Pacific region.

identify the various migration patterns from Asia to the Pacific Islands that have shaped the nation's borders, policies,

cultures and governments.

give examples of both imports and exports of the Pacific region.

explain the various catastrophes of draught, volcanic eruptions, earthquakes and tsunamis that are common to the Pacific

world and the reasons they exist.

identify cities, regions and capitols of all major Pacific world countries

give examples of different climate zones and their vegetation in the Pacific region.

identify the different levels of climate zones in Australia and their impact on life there.

identify the various sectors of employment and their regions throughout the Pacific region.

identify developed countries, developing countries and non-developing countries in the Pacific region.

identify population densities throughout the Pacific world and why less vs. more

show how Asian migration contributed to economic success in the Pacific Islands region.

locate places such as the South Pole in Antarctica, the Outback, atolls, Tasmania, Easter Island , the Pacific and Indian

Oceans.

Assessment:


quizzes

tests

word keys and definitions

class debate and discussion

poster project (Ecosystem in the Outback)

unit packet (worksheets/ skill sheets to be graded)

NJ ASK open-ended question(s)




Venn Diagrams on Australian and New Zealand governments & economies.

Bar and Line graphs outlining population, migration & density patterns in Australia and New Zealand.


Unit packet reflecting various worksheets on Australian and New Zealand climate zones, colonialism and population

densities

Journal entry - What theory do you have on the strange statues on Easter Island? Give 2 or 3 theories on this

phenomenon.

Immigration Project: Students imagine themselves as recent African immigrants to Australia or New Zealand. Research

some typical countries from which immigrants come and some of the particular cities and regions to which they migrate.

Write and in-depth letter back home to family or friends explaining the particular challenges of being an immigrant and

part of a particularly small minority group. What are the challenges you face? What are the advantages you enjoy?

How does Australia or New Zealand compare to home?

K,W,L chart: showing 1,2,3 steps of the learning process thru Unit. What I Know, What I Want to learn, and what I

Learned

Internet research on how indigenous animals have evolved in Australia separated from other species on other continents

and islands.

Unit/Chapter Reviews at end of units and chapters.


Teacher Resources:

Video/DVD

Various on-line pages & activities (i.e., Australian immigration/Volcanic & earthquake activity in New Zealand)






Equipment Needed:

Computers

TV

DVD player

Overhead projector

Computer projector

White Board

RESOURCES



Unit Title: Research Paper

Target Course/Grade Level: Social Studies- Grade 7

Unit Summary: The purpose of this unit is to reinforce research and writing skills as well as citation format. Students will understand the

importance of choosing a topic and reliable sources in order to develop a thesis statement and investigation. The format in which a research paper

is written will be reviewed and the students’ end product will be a detailed and substantiated paper that is well- written and developed.

Approximate Length of Unit: 2 - 3weeks

Primary interdisciplinary connections: Language Arts, Writing, Media

Standards:

English Language Arts Standards

Reading Informational Text

Content Strand:

Key Ideas and Details

RI.7.1. Cite several pieces of textual evidence to support analysis of what the text says explicitly as well as inferences drawn from the text.

RI.7.2. Determine two or more central ideas in a text and analyze their development over the course of the text; provide an objective summary

of the text.

RI.7.3. Analyze the interactions between individuals, events, and ideas in a text (e.g., how ideas influence individuals or events, or how

individuals influence ideas or events).

Craft and Structure RI.7.4. Determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text, including figurative, connotative, and technical meanings;

analyze the impact of a specific word choice on meaning and tone.

RI.7.5. Analyze the structure an author uses to organize a text, including how the major sections contribute to the whole and to the

development of the ideas.

RI.7.6.Determine an author’s point of view or purpose in a text and analyze how the author distinguishes his or her position from that of

others.

Integration of Knowledge and Ideas

RI.7.7. Compare and contrast a text to an audio, video, or multimedia version of the text, analyzing each medium’s portrayal of the subject

(e.g., how the delivery of a speech affects the impact of the words).

RI.7.8. Trace and evaluate the argument and specific claims in a text, assessing whether the reasoning is sound and the evidence is relevant

and sufficient to support the claims.

RI.7.9. Analyze how two or more authors writing about the same topic shape their presentations of key information by emphasizing different

evidence or advancing different interpretations of facts.

Range of Reading and Level of Text Complexity

RI.7.10. By the end of the year, read and comprehend literary nonfiction in the grades 6–8 text complexity band proficiently, with scaffolding

as needed at the high end of the range.

LEARNING TARGETS

UNIT OVERVIEW

Unit Understandings


Certain research criteria is used to categorize nations

Criteria is supported by international organizations like the United Nations & the World Health Organization.

Information needs to be synthesized.

Information must be analyzed.

Topics – First, Second, Third & Fourth World countries, such as: EUROPE: Czech Republic, Germany, Italy, Portugal, Russia,

Poland, Luxembourg, Denmark, Ireland, Ukraine

ASIA: Afghanistan, China, India, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Japan, Kuwait, Nepal, Oman, Saudi Arabia

AFRICA: Algeria, Egypt, Ethiopia, Kenya, Liberia, Nigeria, Somalia, South Africa, Madagascar, Sudan AMERICAS:

Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Columbia, Cuba, Haiti, Mexico, Panama, Costa Rica, Bermuda

Unit Essential Questions

What criteria is used to determine the category of a country?

What determines a 1st, 2nd, 3rd& 4th world country?

How can I prove my conclusion?

How can a nation change from one category to another?

What are the differences between all four worlds?

What is the importance of proper citation usage?

What is plagiarism?

Knowledge and Skills

Students will know…

Key terms: economy, GDP, religion, quality of life, government, education, undeveloped, developed, democracy, communist,

dictatorship

The difference of all political worlds

That governments’ have a huge impact in a countries’ progress or stagnation.

That the global community has great influence in a countries development.

How to cite information correctly.

How to use Turitin.com and avoid plagiarism.

Students will be able to…

To analyze information.

To interpret information.

To compare and contrast information.

To demonstrate cause and effect.

To take a stand on an issue.

Assessment


Research paper requirements met via the rubric provided by the department.

Learning Activities


The teacher will model how to use note cards to help enhance their paper.

Students will learn correct documentation style.

Students will learn how to citing evidence correctly.

The teacher will model how to format a bibliography correctly.

Students will follow a guide sheet.


Teacher Resources:

Various online pages and activities

Various Primary Source documents


Equipment Needed:

Computers

Research Books

RESOURCES

rahway public schools · 9.1.8.d.5 justify the need for greater cross-cultural understanding due to...

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