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Welcome to 7th

grade Social
Studies!
Dear Bulldog Families,
Welcome to the 2015-2016 school year! I wanted to take this opportunity to introduce myself
and give you a glimpse into the journey your student will be taking in Social Studies this year.
My name is Whitney Tipton. I have a Bachelors degree from NC State University and a
Masters degree in Middle Grades Education from UNCW. This is my third year at Cedar Grove
Middle and I am excited for another year with the BULLDOG family. I look forward to
speaking with each of you throughout the year. Please know that I am always accessible and
would love to hear from you. You know your student best and any information that you can
provide to enhance his/her learning experience is much appreciated. Please feel free to contact
me anytime by phone or email.
7th grade Social Studies info:
Course Description: This year 7th graders will learn about society from the year 1400 all the way through present day. We will
explore how the era of change in the Renaissance inspired progress and innovation for centuries to come. We will become
historians as we see the exploration of the New World, examine multiple revolutions, investigate world wars, and dive into the
issues of today. We will study historical figures, experience new cultures, examine geography, learn about government and
economics, as well as challenge ourselves to influence our own communities and future for the better.
Class Website: www.mstiptonrockssocialstudies.weebly.com
Scan the QR code to the right using your smart phone to take you directly to our site.
This site will provide resources throughout the year, review activities, class PowerPoints,
pictures, and important announcements.
Materials: Refer to the 7th grade/Brunswick County Schools material list. 7th grade Social Studies will NOT have a text book. It
is essential that each student keep their notebook organized and complete as it will be the ONLY source to study and use for
homework/assessments.
Absence: Students are responsible for making up all classwork, notes, homework, and assessments if absent. Students can find
assignments in the what you missed crate in our classroom. It is also a good idea to have a study buddy in class to help ensure
students do not miss any content from class discussion during an absence.
Homework: Students will have a WEEKLY homework assignment due each THURSDAY (unless announced differently by Ms.
Tipton). It is the students responsibility to complete this assignment each week. Extra copies are located in the classroom.
Quizzes: Students will have a WEEKLY quiz on Fridays (unless announced differently by Ms. Tipton). The quiz will cover all
material covered the Monday-Thursday prior to the quiz. Students should use time daily to review notes and complete
homework in preparation for weekly quizzes. Students will also have periodic notebook quizzes graded on organization and
completion.
Tests: Students will have cumulative Tests at the end of each unit.
Projects: Students will complete multiple projects this year both in class and outside of class.
Late work: The first day an assignment is late will be a 10pt. deduction. Each additional day an assignment is late will be an
additional 5pts per day. Students may always turn in late work for a reduced grade. However, if assignment is more than 2 weeks
late an alternate assignment may be required to receive credit. All late/alternate assignment must be completed within the
assigned 9 week period.
Grade Scale:
A- 90-100 B- 80-89 C- 70-79 D- 60-69 F- 0-59

Grade Weights:
Tests/Projects- 40%

Quizzes- 30%

Classwork/Participation-20%

Homework- 10%

Social Studies Year at a Glance:


1st 9 weeks- Social Studies 101, Unit 1: The Emergence of Global Society 1400-1800
2nd 9 weeks- Unit 2: A Conquered Globe 1800-1900
3rd 9 weeks- Unit 3: The Evolution of the Global Community 1900-1991
4th 9 weeks- Unit 4: Contemporary World 1941- Present
Throughout the whole year students will also be studying a separate unit on Financial Literacy.

Dont forget to sign up to receive text message alerts about BIG Social Studies news like Unit Tests,
projects, or class announcements. See the attached flyer for instructions. STUDENTS and
PARENTS can sign up for alerts.

Classroom Expectations for all students:


1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

I will be POSITIVE.
I will be ENGAGED.
I will be RESPONSIBLE.
I will show RESPECT.
I will be AMAZING.

I am looking forward to a WONDERFUL year!


Sincerely,

Ms. Tipton
7th Grade Social Studies, Room 310
Cedar Grove Middle School
Email: wtipton@bcswan.net
Phone: (910) 846-3400

Dear Students,
I believe in you!
You are important!
Im here to help you grow!
You are listened to!
I will hold you to high expectations!
You are capable!
We will have fun!
You will succeed!

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