History

The Middle School History Program at The Albany Academy is designed to instill the skills and habits of historians, and prioritizes the connection of geography and history. Boys learn to form arguments to answer the whys of history, as opposed to memorizing and reciting a defined narrative of the past. This inquiry, facilitated through analysis of primary sources, critical reading of historical texts and collaboration with teachers and other students, helps boys build an understanding of the origins of their own cultures and of the contemporary world.
 
Units are geared toward the particular strengths and needs of Middle School students, with emphasis on hands-on learning, skill development, connections with current issues, and depth of study. Students learn and use effective reading, research, writing, communication and study skills during their inquiry into key historical questions throughout the Middle School History Program.
 
The Middle School curriculum includes courses in World History and Geography for the Fifth & Sixth Grades, followed by United States History in Forms I & II.
Sixth Grade
An introduction to World History and Geography II, this course is the second year of the Academy history program that seeks to develop in students the skills and habits of historians. Instruction in key communication, study and research skills is prioritized. This course introduces students to in-depth study of world religions and philosophy, empires, exploration and colonization, and to the practice of history. Geography skills, including map reading, chart making and economics will form a key part of the curriculum. Units will include hands-on activities, group and individual projects and a field experience. A weekly periodical will enhance connections between current events and history

Form I
An introduction to American Government and Culture, this course is the first of two in the Middle School United States history program. The Academy history program seeks to develop in students the skills and habits of historians. Instruction in key communication, study and research skills is prioritized. The first year United States history course highlights the foundations of American government and culture from the founding era to 1900. Geography skills continue to build in the Grade 8 course with close connections drawn between geography and American history. Units will include hands-on activities, group and individual projects and a field experience. A weekly periodical will enhance connections between current events and history.

Form II
An introduction to Twentieth Century World, this course is the second of two in the Middle School United States history program, and continues to develop in students the skills and habits of historians. The second year United States History course focuses on the nation's history in the 20th century, with emphasis on the United States connection to other regions and world affairs. Geography skills continue to build in the Grade 8 course, with close connections drawn between geography and American history. Units will include hands-on activities, group and individual projects and a field experience. A weekly periodical will enhance connections between current events and history.
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