Social Studies

Deborah Feigenson

Deborah Feigenson

Middle School English Language Arts and Social Studies Chair

In our Social Studies department, we are committed to shaping informed and engaged citizens, through study of world geography in 7th grade and American government in 8th grade. We guide students to analyze historical events, connect them to contemporary issues, and think critically about both their own communities and the larger world. We foster an environment where students learn to appreciate multiple perspectives, collaborate effectively, and actively participate in their communities. Our vision is to prepare students to conduct themselves thoughtfully in academic settings and in society, embracing diverse viewpoints and applying their knowledge authentically.

Core Skills
  • Gathering and using evidence
  • Paraphrasing and note-taking
  • Interpreting and creating timelines
  • Nonfiction reading skills
  • Organizing information
  • Map skills
  • Evaluating sources
  • Public speaking and presentation
  • Analyzing various types of sources
  • Group work and collaboration 
  • Writing for history
  • Synthesizing information
  • Using supporting evidence
  • Creating a bibliography
Themes of the Curriculum

7th Grade: Geography and the Developing World
To what extent are communities  more defined by their physical or human geography?
How do we examine the challenges and achievements of a developing country without reducing it to a single story? 
How do communities adapt to a changing environment over time?

8th Grade: Government
Why do people create, structure, and change governments? 
To what extent do we live up to the American ideal of equality?