Seventh Grade History

by D. Lutz

Ancient History for seventh graders takes them way back in time to third grade when they first learned about the fascinating Egyptians, the protected Israelites, the cruel Assyrians, the Greek thinkers and the Roman doers. The class is flying without a textbook this year; reading from primary and secondary sources, pouring over maps, and comparing time lines of ancient civilizations around the globe. Almost every week the students are required to independently research important topics, people, or places and report back to the class what they have learned. In essence, they are creating their own textbook.

This week we will be comparing the original Hippocratic Oath to the oaths taken by doctors graduating today. How are they the same? How do they differ? How does this show how civilization has changed or stayed the same? Next week we are learning about Alexander the Great. By looking at almost a dozen sources, we are going to decide if the man was truly great, or perhaps, just a big bully.

After our study of Greece we are taking quick flights over India, China, and the ancient communities of the Americas, coming back to Rome in time to explore their great accomplishments and shortfalls. Christ will be born, put to death, and resurrected in God’s perfect timing. The threat of persecution, the diversity of languages, and the spider web of roads will take His message and His church to the far corners of the earth. Our ancient studies will lead us to this very pinnacle of world history.