Social Studies — Grade 6

To market, to market: Photograph analysis

In this lesson, students analyze photos of markets from around the world to gain an understanding of the similarities and differences between geographically distant places, to learn about the economic and cultural significance of markets, and to improve visual literacy skills.

Format: lesson plan (grade 6–7 English Language Arts and Social Studies)

By Eric Eaton.

European shadow puppets

Students will work in cooperative groups first to read a fairy tale by a European author. Then they will make shadow puppets to use on an overhead projector. Finally, they will present their puppet shows to their class.

Format: lesson plan (grade 6 English Language Arts and Social Studies)

By Marsha Paisley.

Resources on the web

Why civilizations fall

In this lesson, part of a two-lesson series from Science NetLinks, students find out about the social changes that caused the collapse of important ancient civilizations in Central America, Mesopotamia, the southwestern United States, and western Africa. (Learn more)

Format: lesson plan (grade 6–7 Science and Social Studies)

Provided by: American Association for the Advancement of Science

Mission geography: Europe

In this Xpeditions lesson, students research and learn about the culture, physical geography, and history of selected countries in Europe. Acting as "tour operators," small groups of students create an imaginary tour group itinerary that highlight interesting... (Learn more)

Format: lesson plan (grade 6 Social Studies)

Provided by: National Geographic

Interpreting the evidence

This lesson, the second of a two-part series from Science NetLinks, offers useful information and activities to help students understand how scientists learn about civilizations that have disappeared. (Learn more)

Format: lesson plan (grade 6–8 Science and Social Studies)

Provided by: American Association for the Advancement of Science

International food court

In this Xpeditions lesson plan, students learn about the characteristics of the world's regions by investigating the types of food that are common in those regions. They'll also conduct research to find out about the climate, landscape, and cultures of... (Learn more)

Format: lesson plan (grade 6–7 Social Studies)

Provided by: National Geographic

Greek mythology: Cultures and art

Students improve their ability to analyze, reorganize, critique, and create by creating and painting mythological characters. (Learn more)

Format: lesson plan (grade 6 Visual Arts Education and Social Studies)

Provided by: The Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts

Fast food around the world

In this lesson from the National Geographic Xpeditions website, students use the Internet or the library to research the cultures of four other countries. Research results are then compiled into a plan for a fast-food restaurant in each of the countries,... (Learn more)

Format: lesson plan (grade 6–7 Social Studies)

Provided by: Xpeditions

Culture shock

In this Xpeditions lesson, students explore how cultural customs differ throughout the world. Activities in this lesson engage students in whole class discussion, online learning, creation of a project, and writing assignments. Students will:... (Learn more)

Format: lesson plan (grade 6–7 Social Studies)

Provided by: Xpeditions

Creating character: Introduction

This introductory lesson begins with an interview of Elena Nightengale, Jewish Survivor of the Holocaust, who discusses the importance of respecting all human beings regardless of differences. Nightengale also discusses integrity and honesty and the power... (Learn more)

Format: lesson plan (grade 6 Guidance and Social Studies)

Provided by: USC Shoah Foundation Institute