Classes
 
Math | Science | History | English | Social Studies | PE | Electives

History

At Bell , the 7th, and 8th graders are enrolled in a variety of History classes. The 7th graders study World History starting around 500 A. D. and ending in the 1700s. The 8th graders take U. S. History, studying the colonial period through the start of the 20th Century. All courses follow the California State Framework which dictates course content.

At Bell the history teachers use Teachers Curriculum Institute (TCI) materials to supplement their regular curriculum. This TCI material is experiential in nature and has proven to be a positive and welcome addition to our regular curriculum.Based on testing scores, students are placed in Seminar, Cluster, (GATE) classes or in Regular history classes.

Mr. Hopkins runs a hands-on program in World History. TCI materials and simulations have expanded efforts to give students as much of a hands-on experience with history as is possible.

"My 8th grade students experience a re-created Middle Passage and Louis and Clark Expedition while the 7th graders learn about what comprises cultures and societies as they create their own culture and experience daily life in a re-created Medieval monastery." - Mr. Hopkins

The History Department at Bell Middle School believes it is important to expose its students to the highest standards possible. To that end, we have begun implementing a standards based approach to our teaching. Part of this approach includes portfolio assessment as a way to raise the level of student achievement.