What will you be learning?


This is many 7th graders first history course.  While many students know some Utah history, they most likely have not developed some key skills and knowledge that we will discuss in this class.  

​Utah State Standards 
"Utah is an amazing place, rich in resources, in geographic wonders, in inspiring history, and in the diversity of its people.  The study of Utah permits students to understand more deeply the place they call home, while developing essential skills unique to the social studies disciplines.  Within these standards, Utah Studies offers an opportunity for students to learn about their own families and cultures as well as those of others."

"The Utah Studies standards are based on four social studies disciplines:  history, geography, economics, and civics.  Students will explore the complex history of Utah with examples of creativity, sacrifice, conflict, innovation, inequity, compromise, and leadership.  Students will also learn about Utah's diverse physical geography, encounter Utah's economic systems and dynamics and explore local statewide political systems."

My Goals 

​Sourcing

Checking sources has become increasingly important in our world.  You cannot just believe everything you read.  You have to consider the source.  I want my students to be able to recognize what is a good source and why it is a good source.

​Students will know:
  • Not to believe everything they read
  • How to check a source to determine if it's true or false
  • How to find the best sources for information
  • That you have to work hard (research) to find reliable sources
  • The difference between a primary and secondary source

​Communication

Being able to communicate appropriately is a life long skill.  Students need to know their audience and how to communicate respectfully in order to deliver their message, be heard, and get results.

Students will be able to:  
  • Actively listen and see value in another point of view
  • Respond respectfully in situations where they feel differently than another person.
  • Not be afraid to speak up, but know how to do it in polite and meaningful way.

Collaboration

Collaboration is a skill that many employers look for in potential employees.  While not everyone feels comfortable working in a group, it is important to be able to navigate your role in a group and how to build an effective group culture in order to accomplish a goal.

Students will be able to:
  • Participate and collaborate effectively in a group
  • Set, evaluate, and adjust goals to complete a task
  • Give and receive feedback to improve as a group

Community & Citizenship

Utah has a unique culture from other places.  The citizens in our communities interact with each other differently than other states in our nation.  Because of this, students need to know why and how they can be effective citizens in our community, both city and state citizens.

Students will know:
  • Respect others opinions, even if it is very different from my own. 
  • How government works
  • Feel comfortable speaking out about law and policies in their community
  • Take responsibility for making their community better by becoming involved and giving back
  • How to become a responsible citizen
  • Know problems that exist and how to find solutions to help fix the problems