Social Studies (SST) Grades 8-10

The Social Studies (SST) curriculum for Grades 8-10 is designed to provide students with a broad understanding of history, geography, economics, and civics. It encourages critical thinking and helps students understand the world around them by analyzing past events, geographical factors, societal structures, and economic systems. The curriculum is structured to develop a deeper appreciation for the complex relationships between human societies and their environments, both historically and in the modern world.

In Grade 8, the curriculum focuses on History and Geography. The history portion covers significant historical events and movements, often focusing on national and global contexts. Topics include the study of ancient civilizations, the impact of colonialism, and the development of modern nation-states. Students learn about the French Revolution, the Industrial Revolution, and the fight for independence in various parts of the world.

The Geography segment introduces students to the study of the Earth’s physical features and how humans interact with the environment. Topics include landforms, climate, and resources, along with human geography, which examines population, migration, and urbanization. The curriculum encourages students to analyze maps and geographical data to understand global and local issues.

In Grade 9, the curriculum delves deeper into World History and Political Science. Students study the development of early civilizations, ancient cultures, and the significant events that shaped the modern world, such as the Renaissance, the Age of Exploration, and the World Wars. They analyze the causes and consequences of these events and their impact on today’s society.

In Geography, students focus on Physical Geography, learning about climate change, ecosystems, natural resources, and human impact on the environment. Students study different regions of the world, analyzing their geographical features and how they influence human activity, such as agriculture, trade, and migration.

In Political Science, students explore the basics of governance, political systems, and the role of citizenship. They study the functioning of different political institutions and understand the concepts of democracy, human rights, and justice.

In Grade 10, the curriculum further develops the study of History, Geography, and Civics. The History component may include a study of modern history, focusing on the 20th century and events like the Cold War, decolonization, and major global conflicts. Students examine the implications of these events for contemporary societies, exploring issues like nationalism, globalization, and human rights.

Geography continues with a deeper focus on environmental issues and sustainable development. Students explore topics like natural disasters, environmental degradation, and conservation. They examine how humans interact with the environment and the consequences of industrialization and urbanization.

Civics and Political Science deepen the understanding of political systems, law, and governance. Students explore issues such as the role of the state, public policy, the justice system, and the rights and duties of citizens. They also look at global issues such as conflict, poverty, and inequality, and how international organizations like the UN work towards resolving these problems.

1. History: From ancient civilizations to modern events like the World Wars and the rise of nationalism, students learn how historical events shape the present.
2. Geography: Students study the Earth’s physical features, the effects of climate, natural resources, and human-environment interaction.
3. Civics/Political Science: Focuses on understanding political systems, governance, democracy, human rights, and the role of citizens in society.
4. Economics: Basic economic principles, including resources, production, trade, and the relationship between economics and society.

Throughout these grades, students engage in discussions, projects, and debates that encourage critical thinking, helping them develop a global perspective on social, economic, and environmental issues. The curriculum also encourages students to use maps, data, and case studies to understand the relationships between geography, politics, and society.

By the end of Grade 10, students are expected to have a well-rounded understanding of how human societies and systems work, enabling them to think critically about historical events, geographical factors, and contemporary global challenges.