5th and 6th grade Social Studies

Welcome to Social Studies! Let me introduce myself.  My name is Mr. Harris and I am excited to be teaching Social Studies at Washington School this year. Our classroom is Room 8 in the South West corner of the building. In this room we will examine where we come from as humans and  Americans, what we have discovered, and how we have learned and grown along the way. It is my desire to expand your knowledge of the past, that it may serve you in the future. In order to accomplish this goal I have three simple rules within the classroom:

1. Respect.  In this room we will examine cultures that do not share our background or ideals.  We learn to appreciate similarities and differences within the classroom, our community, and the world.  We will show respect.

2. Responsibility.  You are responsible for your success within this room.  I am here to help you be successful. You are responsible for completing assignments on time, your behavior, and your attitude.  No one has power over you except you; exercise it wisely.

3. Safety.  This includes not only physical safety, but mental, social and psychological safety. These are equally important.  Don’t be a danger to others, or yourself.

If we can stick to the above rules, I am certain that each of you will have a successful year.  Please do not hesitate to ask for help when you need it. I will be available to assist you.

A note about homework:

I offer an optional assignment each month to earn a homework pass (or replace a homework score).  For this assignment students are to write a one page description of an event that takes place within the month following the current month.  For example students turning one of these in during the month of August, would be describing a significant event that occurred in September.

These will be judged each month and the 5 top reports will be posted in the classroom.  A report need not necessarily be in the top 5 to earn a homework pass, but if the report is insufficient or copied it will not earn a homework pass.

Parents may call or email with questions or concerns. I’m looking forward to a great year!

Respectfully,

Mr. Harris

charris@jcindians.org

(618) 983-7581