Social Studies at Saint Thomas Academy.

This course is designed for the student to gain insight and understanding of Minnesota from its physical features 12,0000 years ago to its current role in today's world.  The student will identify themes involving indigenous people, war, industry, economies, industrialization, the common good, equality and social change through the lens of Minnesota while understanding how their learning applies to the United States and the world. Current events are integrated into the course.  In addition, half of the first quarter will be devoted to R.E.A.C.H (Relationships, Emotions, Academics, Character, Health) -- an introductory course, taught by the MS counselor, focused on Social-Emotional Learning to help acclimate new students to Saint Thomas Academy. In December, all 6th, 7th and 8th graders participate in the National Geographic Bee.

Geography tries to make sense of the world around us. It helps us understand how people, places, and environments came to be and how they affect each other. In this class, we ask where is something? Why is it there? How did it get there? How does it affect the natural environment in this area?
Every world region is examined, including Canada and the USA, Latin America, Europe and Russia, Africa, Southwest and Central Asia, South and East Asia, and Oceania. Each unit seeks to answer an essential question that tackles a challenging social issue. There is a strong emphasis on working with maps and other related social studies skills. In December, all 6th, 7th and 8th graders participate in the National Geographic Bee.

This course is designed to show the students the growth of the U.S. in economic, political, and social areas. The students analyze the great changes in American life since the birth of the nation, as well as elements that have endured to build American's heritage. Students also study political and military conflict and evaluate the role of America in the world. Students continue to build and use skills in geography and learn historical writing and
data analysis skills. All 8th grade students participate in the History Day competition, based on the topic of their choice.

This chess class will instruct students in using skills such as logic, reasoning, visualization, planning and mental agility. The student will be able to learn the key tactical concepts, patterns, calculation, as well as strategic planning and thinking through the game of chess. This class is for both total beginners, and players that want to advance their playing abilities. An expectation for the course is that students are expected to play in at least one
tournament. Class graded S/U.

This Quiz Bowl class is separate from the after-school co-curricular activity. Students learn the rules of competition, form teams, and compete in friendly matches. Assessment will be based on knowledge of the rules and strategies, sportsmanship, classroom behavior and effort. Class graded S/U.

This elective will introduce students to the techniques and strategies used in academic debate. Students will learn how to develop arguments, create cross-examination questions, to look for flaws in their opponents' arguments, and how to think on their feet during a debate. Topics will range from fun and informal current issues to the official national debate topics. Need instructor approval to take this course a second time. Class graded A-F.

This middle school elective will introduce students to new ways to think about their family's past. Students will learn what they can about their own family's story by utilizing oral history, artifacts and heirlooms, and historical sources to learn more about who they are and where they come from. Class graded A-F.