Our 6th grade classes study World Geography, which is a natural follow-on to their study of Ancient World Cultures in 5th grade.  In the spring, sixth graders begin preparing their Adopt-a-Country projects, presented to the school and their families in April.  In 7th grade,  students learn about the history of the United States through the era of Reconstruction (late 1800s), and in 8th grade, continue studying our history to the present day, including a unit on US Government.  All three grade levels engage in research for several essay contests each year.  Learning and assessment methods for all three grades include guided notes, independent note taking skills, small projects, essays, and tests to allow students to develop and display a variety of academic skills and strengths.  Most years, 7th grade takes a field trip to Gettysburg National Park following our study of the Civil War, and 8th grade finishes the year with a trip to Washington, DC.