Debra D. Mays

7th Grade Civics and Geography Teacher

Phone Number 1-334- 567-1413

BIO

Hi.  I am Debra Mays.  I attended Alabama State University, and finished with a Masters Degree in Social Studies.   I later attended Troy State University, and finished with a Masters Degree in Agency Counseling.   
I also attended Auburn University at Montgomery, and received a Certification in Reading.  I presently teach Civics and Geography at Wetumpka Middle School.

 

Courses Taught:

Contemporary Civics/Geography - Grade 7

Contemporary Issues - Grade 7 (Elective)

 

Remind Codes
Homeroom/1st Period - 7th Grade- Geography/Civics -   Text @acgd79 to 81010.
 2nd, 5th, 6th Period - 7th Grade- Geography/Civics -       Text @94393kk to 81010.
 3rd Period - 7th Grade- Contemporary Issues (Elective- Text @4cbh28d to 81010.


Debra D. Mays

Lesson Plan - NAME: Debra Mays  GRADE/SUBJECT: 7th Grade/Geography   WEEK OF:February 9th - February 13th 2026                         

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

Standards/Skills

Standard 3- Compare geographic patterns in the environment that result from processes with the atmosphere, biosphere, lithosphere, and hydrosphere of Earth’s physical systems.

Standard 3- Compare geographic patterns in the environment that result from processes with the atmosphere, biosphere, lithosphere, and hydrosphere of Earth’s physical systems.

Standard 3- Compare geographic patterns in the environment that result from processes with the atmosphere, biosphere, lithosphere, and hydrosphere of Earth’s physical systems.

Standard 3- Compare geographic patterns in the environment that result from processes with the atmosphere, biosphere, lithosphere, and hydrosphere of Earth’s physical systems.

ESSENTIAL QUESTION

Learning Targets

“I can …”

Essential Question- What is the Atmosphere?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) Physical Geography (2) The Atmosphere and (3) Air Pollution

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on the Earth’s physical geography.

Progress Report Day

No Students

Essential Question- What is the Lithosphere?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) Topsoil (2) Deforestation and (3) Crop Rotation

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on minerals and ores mined from the Earth.

Essential Question- What is the Hydrosphere?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) Conservation (2) Irrigation and (3) pesticides

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on managing water supplies. 

Essential Question- What is the Biosphere?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) Ecosystems (2) Biodiversity and (3) The environment

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on how the human population increases and people expand their communities.

Instructional Strategies/

Activities

(Before, During, & After)

Objective- The Atmosphere

Bell-Ringer- How would you explain the processes that shape the physical environment?

Before- Quick Write

During- Complete the Statements.

True/False

Strategy- 3-2-1

After-Drawing

Whole Group

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

 

Objective- The Lithosphere

Bell-Ringer- What are the benefits of topsoil?

Before- Read/Write/Discuss

During- Word Wall

Questions

Strategy- ABC Brainstorm

After- Write 3 conclusive statements.

Whole Group

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

Objective- The Hydrosphere

Bell-Ringer- What is water management?

Before- Read/Write/Discuss

During- 3 descriptive words

Summary

Main Idea

Graphic Organizer

Strategy- Write 3 predictions

After- Write  one fact and one opinion.

Individual Work

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

Objective- The Biosphere

Bell-Ringer- What are ecosystems?

Before- Quick Write

During- Questions

Reviewing Facts

Completions

Strategy- Turn and Talk

After- Create an advertisement.

Small Group

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

IXL Skills 

Social Studies

Social Studies

Social Studies

Social Studies

Resources

(for Parent Transparency)

twip.glencoe.com

twip.glencoe.com

twip.glencoe.com

twip.glencoe.com

Student Grouping:X Whole Group  X Small Group X  Individual Work 

Assessments:X  Formative X Summative

ACCOMMODATIONS:     Retake Tests,     Preferential Seating,   X   Shorter Assignments,  X   Additional Time,      EL Strategies,       Language Modifications, 

          Compacting the Subject (gifted),       Less Repetition (gifted),       Alternative Assessment,       Other:                                                                       X

 

Lesson Plan - NAME: Debra Mays  GRADE/SUBJECT: 7th Grade/Contemporary Issues-Elective    WEEK OF:February 9th-February 13th 2026 

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

Standards/Skills

Reading Comprehension

Reading Comprehension

Reading Comprehension

Reading Comprehension

ESSENTIAL QUESTION

Learning Targets

“I can …”

Essential Question- Where is India located?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) Dravidians (2) Indus Valley and (3) The Aryans

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on invaders that came from the East and the West.

Progress Report Day

No Students

Essential Question- Who were the Indian Rulers?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) King Chandra Gupta (2) The Gupta Empire and (3) Great Britain Takes Control

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on how India broke apart into many separate Hindu Kingdoms..

Essential Question- What were the Mesoamerican Empires?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) Significant Mayas (2) Farming and (3) Central America

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on how Central America land joins the North American and South American continents. 

Essential Question- Who were the Incredible Incas?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) The Incas (2) Craftsmen and (3) South America.

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on the Incas empire built in South America.

Instructional Strategies/

Activities

(Before, During, & After)

Objective- Early India

Bell-Ringer- Who were the first people to arrive in Early India?

Before- Read/Write Notes

During- Completions

Unscramble

Questions

Strategy- Write 3 predictions

After- Drawing

Individual Work

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

Objective- Indian Rulers

Bell-Ringer- What were the beliefs of most Mughal Leaders?

Before- Quick Write

During- Matching

Word Wall

Strategy- Save the Last Word For Me

After- Advertisement

Individual Work

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

Objective- Mesoamerican Empires

Bell-Ringer- Who were the Magnificent Mayas?

Before- Read/Write/Discuss

During- Find the Words

Sum-IT-Up.

Strategy-ABC Brainstorm

After- Graphic Organizer

Whole Group

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment 

Objective- The Incredible Incas

Bell-Ringer- Where did the Incas live?

Before- Read/Write

During- Unscramble the Words.

Completions

Questions

Strategy- Turn and Talk 

After- Write 2 reactions

Small Group

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

IXL Skills 

Social Studies

Social Studies

Social Studies

Social Studies

Resources

(for Parent Transparency)

www.shelleducation.com

www.shelleducation.com

www.shelleducation.com

www.shelleducation

Student Grouping: X Whole Group  X Small Group  XIndividual Work 

Assessments:  Formative  Summative

ACCOMMODATIONS:     Retake Tests,     Preferential Seating,  X    Shorter Assignments,   X  Additional Time,      EL Strategies,       Language Modifications, 

          Compacting the Subject (gifted),       Less Repetition (gifted),       Alternative Assessment,       Other:                                                                       X

 

 

Lesson Plan - NAME: Debra Mays       GRADE/SUBJECT:   7th Grade/Geography     WEEK OF: February 2nd - February 6th 2026                              

 

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

Standards/Skills

Standard 2- Determine how regions are used to describe the organization of Earth’s surface.

Standard 2- Determine how regions are used to describe the organization of Earth’s surface.

Standard 2- Determine how regions are used to describe the organization of Earth’s surface.

Standard 2- Determine how regions are used to describe the organization of Earth’s surface.

Standard 2- Determine how regions are used to describe the organization of Earth’s surface.

ESSENTIAL QUESTION

Learning Targets

“I can …”

Essential Question- What is the water cycle?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) Water Cycle (2) Evaporation and (3) Water Vapor

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on the earth’s water moving in a cycle.

Essential Question- What is water vapor?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) Water Vapor (2)Water Cycle and (3)Evaporation

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on water covering about 70 % of the earth’s surface.

Essential Question- What are bodies of water?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) Groundwater (2) Aquifers and (3) Rainfall

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on the earth’s water supply.

Essential Question- What is making connections through exploring Earth’s Water?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) Art (2) Science (3) Culture and (4) Technology

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on scientists knowing more about the surface of the moon than they do about the ocean floor.

Essential Question- Compare how culture and experience influence individual perceptions of places and regions?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) Culture (2) Individual Perceptions and (3) Places and Regions

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on cultural influences.

Instructional Strategies/

Activities

(Before, During, & After)

Objective- The Water Cycle

Bell-Ringer- How does water move in the water cycle?

Before- Read/Write/Discuss

Sum-It-Up

Matching

Strategy- Save the Last Word For Me

After- Write 2 conclusive statements

Individual Work

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

Objective- The Earth’s Water

Bell-Ringer- What are the processes and reasons for regional change through the water cycle?

Before- Quick Write

During- Create a chart

Questions

Drawing

Strategy- ABC Brainstorm

After- Write 3 reactions

Individual Work

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

Objective- Water Resources

Bell-Ringer- What is saltwater?

Before- Read/Write/Discuss

During- Complete the Statement

Fact/Opinion

Sentences

Making Connections

Strategy- 3 facts, 2 connections, 1 question I still have

After- Advertisement

Whole Group

Formative Assessment Summative Assessment

Objective- Exploring Ice Shelves

Bell-Ringer- What  was the most promising areas of research for Autosub?

Before- Quick Write

During- Graphic Organizer

Find the Words

Essay Question

Complete the Statement

Strategy- Write 3 predictions

After- Making the Connection Questions

Whole Group

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

Objective- Explaining Globalization

Bell-Ringer- What are water resources?

Before- Quick Write

During- Chart

Analyzing the Diagram

Summarizing

True/False

Strategy- Turn and Talk

After- Drawing Conclusions

Small Group

Formative Assessment

Summative

IXL Skills 

Social Studies

Social Studies

Social Studies

Social Studies

Social Studies

Resources

(for Parent Transparency)

twip.glencoe.com

twip.glencoe.comt

twip.glencoe.com

twip.glencoe.com

twip.glencoe.com

Student Grouping: X Whole Group X Small Group X Individual Work 

Assessments:X Formative  XSummative

ACCOMMODATIONS:     Retake Tests,     Preferential Seating,   X   Shorter Assignments,  X   Additional Time,      EL Strategies,       Language Modifications, 

          Compacting the Subject (gifted),       Less Repetition (gifted),       Alternative Assessment,       Other:                                                                       X


Lesson Plan - NAME: Debra Mays  GRADE/SUBJECT:  7th Grade/ Contemporary Issues-Elective   WEEK OF: February 2nd-February 6th 2026 

 

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

Standards/Skills

Skill- Reading Comprehension

Skill- Reading Comprehension

Skill-Reading Comprehension

Skill-Reading Comprehension

Skill-Reading Comprehension

ESSENTIAL QUESTION

Learning Targets

“I can …”

Essential Question- Where is Ancient Mesopotamia located?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) Middle East (2) Turkey and (3) Sumer

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on the Fertile Crescent and Mesopotamia.

Essential Question- How would you describe the Mesopotamian Empires?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) Hebrews (2) Tolerant Persians and (3) Ancient Empires

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on empires that existed long ago.

Essential Question - What took place in Ancient Egypt around 5000 B.C.?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) The Nile River (2) Upper Egypt and (3) Lower Egypt

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on nomads that stop moving around, and homes built along the Nile River.

Essential Question- Who were the rulers of Egypt?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) Egyptians (2) The Hyksos and (3) The Nile River

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on the Egyptian land and their ideas and customs.

Essential Question- Where is Greece located?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) Pottery (2) The Mainland and (3) Greek Culture

I can (as a teacher)  help the students gain knowledge on Greece, a hot, dry country with mountain ranges.

Instructional Strategies/

Activities

(Before, During, & After)

Objective- Mesopotamia and the Fertile Crescent.

Bell-Ringer- How can the Middle East be described?

Before- Quick Write

During- Word Wall

Unscramble

Completions

Strategy- ABC Brainstorm

After- Drawing

Individual Work

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

Objective-More Mesopotamian Empires

Bell-Ringer- What was the significance of the Persian Empire?

Before- Read/Write/Discuss

During- Graphic Organizer

Descriptive Words

True/False

Strategy- Write 3 predictions

After- Create an advertisement

Individual Work

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

Objective- Ancient Egypt

Bell-River- Who were the pharaohs?

Before- Read/Write Notes

During- Find the Words

Summary

Reactions - (3)

Strategy- 3 facts, 2 connections, 1 question I still have

After- Reading Check Questions

Whole Group

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

Objective- Rulers of Egypt

Bell-Ringer- What effect did Ahmose have on the Egyptians?

Before- Quick Write

During- Complete the Statement

Find the Letters

Main Ideas

Strategy- Save the Last Word For Me

After- Create a chart.

Whole Group

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment 

Objective- Ancient Greece

Bell-Ringer- What is Greek life centered on?

Before- Quick Write

During- Fact/Opinion

Cause/Effect

Social Studies Skill Activity

KeyTerms

Strategy- Turn and Talk

After- Write 3 examples of Art and Theater.

Small Group

Formative Assessment

summative Assessment

IXL Skills 

Social Studies

Social Studies

Social Studies

Social Studies

Social Studies

Resources

(for Parent Transparency)

www.shelleducation.com

www.shelleducation.com

www.shelleducation.com

www.shelleducation.com

www.shelleducation.com

Student Grouping: X Whole Group  X Small Group X  Individual Work 

Assessments:X  Formative X Summative

ACCOMMODATIONS:     Retake Tests,     Preferential Seating,  X    Shorter Assignments,  X   Additional Time,      EL Strategies,       Language Modifications, 

          Compacting the Subject (gifted),       Less Repetition (gifted),       Alternative Assessment,       Other:                                                                       X

 

Lesson Plan - NAME: Debra Mays   GRADE/SUBJECT: 7th Grade/Geography             WEEK OF: January 26th-January 30th 2026      

 

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

Standards/Skills

Standard 2- Determine how regions are used to describe the organization of Earth’s surface.

Standard 2- Determine how regions are used to describe the organization of Earth’s surface.

Standard 2- Determine how regions are used to describe the organization of Earth’s surface.

Standard 2- Determine how regions are used to describe  the organization of Earth’s surface.

Standard 2- Determine how regions are used to describe the organization of Earth’s surface.

ESSENTIAL QUESTION

Learning Targets

“I can …”

Essential Question-What do geographers mainly study?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) Cities (2) Rivers and (3) landforms

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on individual places that relate to other places.

Essential Question- How does culture and experience influence individual perceptions of places and regions?

Learning Targets For Students:(1) Environment (2) Where people live? and (3) How do people live? 

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on the way people interact with others.

Essential Question- How can geographers analyze interactions among regions to show transnational relationships?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) Language (2) Environments and (3) People

I can (as a teacher) help the the students gain knowledge on areas that share common characteristics.

Essential Question- How would you explain globalization and its impact on people in all regions of the world?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) Middle East (2) Europeans and (3) The United States.

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on the big picture of places.

Essential Question- What are some reasons for regional change?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) State (2) Town and (3) School District

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on the ways geographers look at a region.

Instructional Strategies/

Activities

(Before, During, & After)

Objective- The Study of Regions.

Bell-Ringer- What is the importance of geographers studying regions?

Before- Read/Write Notes.

During- Compare rivers, cities, and landforms.

Create a graphic organizer.

Find the words.

Complete the statements.

Strategy- Write 2 predictions.

After- Write 2 examples of geographical studies?

Individual Work

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

Objective- People and Places

Bell-Ringer- Why do people depend less on their physical environment to make a living?

Before- Quick Write.

During- Main Idea

Key Terms

Questions

Sum-It-Up

Strategy- 3-2-1

After- Write 3 reactions to people and places.

Individual Work

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment 

Objective- Interactions Among Regions.

Before- Read/Write/Draw

During- Review Facts

Create a Chart

Summary

Matching

Strategy- ABC Brainstorm

After- Drawing

Whole Group

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

Objective- Globalization

Before- Read

During- Compare/Contrast

Fact/Opinion

Questions

The Way I See It

Strategy- Save the Last Word For Me

After- Reading Check Activity

Whole Group

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

Objective- Regional Change

Bell-Ringer- What are some regions that include several countries?

Before- Read/Write/Discuss

During- Word Wall

Graphic Organizer

Main Ideas

Complete the sentence.

Strategy- Turn and Talk

After-Write 3 conclusive statements.

Small Group

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment 

IXL Skills 

Social Studies

social Studies

Social Studies

Social Studies

Social Studies

Resources

(for Parent Transparency)

twip.glencoe.com

twip.glencoe.com

twip.glencoe.com

twip.glencoe.com

twip.glencoe.com

Student Grouping:X Whole Group  X Small Group X  Individual Work 

Assessments: X Formative X Summative

ACCOMMODATIONS:     Retake Tests,     Preferential Seating,     X Shorter Assignments,   X  Additional Time,      EL Strategies,       Language Modifications, 

          Compacting the Subject (gifted),       Less Repetition (gifted),       Alternative Assessment,       Other:                                                                       X

 

Lesson Plan - NAME: Debra Mays   GRADE/SUBJECT: 7th Grade/Contemporary Issues-Elective    WEEK OF: January 26th-January 30th 2026                   

 

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

Standards/Skills

Skill-Reading Comprehension

Skill-Reading Comprehension

Skill-Reading Comprehension

Skill-Reading Comprehension

Skill-Reading Comprehension

ESSENTIAL QUESTION

Learning Targets

“I can …”

Essential Question- What is the rain forest?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) Raising Money (2) Acres of rain forest and (3) Effects of destroying the rain forest

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on working to save the rain forest.

Essential Question- Where does garbage end up?

Learning Targets For Students:(1) Chemicals 92) Aluminum Cans and (3) Ecosystems

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on chemicals that are harmful to Earth’s ecosystems.

Essential Question- What can make day and night?

Learning Targets For Students: (1)Sun (2) Daylight and (3) Darkness

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on earth turning on its axis once every 24 hours. 

Essential Question- What are time zones?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) Japan (2) Canada and (3) California

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on all 24 time zones.

Essential Question- What makes winter and summer?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) Orbit 92) Earth’s Axis and (3) Hemisphere

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on the earth’s movement to a new spot in its orbit.

Instructional Strategies/

Activities

(Before, During, & After)

Objective- Saving the Rain Forest

Bell-Ringer- What took place when children from other countries heard about saving the rain forest?

Before- Quick Write

During- Write 3 facts.

Graphic organizer.

Questions

Summary

Strategy- Write 3 predictions

After- Write 2 reactions.

Individual Work

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

Objective- Recycle, Reuse, and Reduce

Bell-Ringer- What is recycling?

Before-Read/Write/Discuss

During- True/False

Fact/Opinion

Completions

Strategy- 3-2-1 

After-Drawing

Individual Work

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

Objective- What Makes Day and Night?

Bell-Ringer- Where does light from the sun fall?

Before- Read/Write notes.

During- Word Wall

Chart 

Find the words.

Strategy- ABC Brainstorm

After- Write an advertisement

Whole Group

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

Objective- Time Zones

Bell-Ringer- what makes time zones different?

Before- Quick Write

During- Key words

Main Ideas

Questions

Matching

Strategy- Save the Last Word For Me.

After- The Way I See It

Whole Group

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

Objective- Winter and Summer

Bell-Ringer- In what direction does the hemisphere tilt?

Before- Read/Write/Discuss

During- Write Notes

Create Chart

Write 3 descriptive words

Write sentences

Strategy- Turn and Talk

After- Write 3 conclusive statements.

Small Group

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

IXL Skills 

Social Studies

Social Studies

Social Studies

Social Studies

Social Studies

Resources

(for Parent Transparency)

www.pearsonlearning.com

www.pearsonlearning.com

www.pearsonlearning.com

www.pearsonlearning.com

www.pearsonlearning.com

Student Grouping:X  Whole GroupX  Small Group X  Individual Work 

Assessments: X Formative  XSummative

ACCOMMODATIONS:     Retake Tests,     Preferential Seating,  X    Shorter Assignments,  X   Additional Time,      EL Strategies,       Language Modifications, 

          Compacting the Subject (gifted),       Less Repetition (gifted),       Alternative Assessment,       Other:                                                                       X

 

Lesson Plan --NAME: Debra Mays   GRADE/SUBJECT: 7th Grade/Geography     WEEK OF:January 20th-January 23rd  2026      

 

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

Standards/Skills

 

Standard 1- Describe the world in spatial terms using maps, and other geographic representations, tools, and technologies.

Standard 1- Describe the world in spatial terms using maps, and other geographic representations, tools, and technologies.

(ACAP Testing)

Standard 1- Describe the world in spatial terms using maps, and other geographic representations, tools, and technologies. 

(ACAP Testing)

Standard 1- Describe the world in spatial terms using maps, and other geographic representations, tools, and technologies.

(ACAP Testing)

ESSENTIAL QUESTION

Learning Targets

“I can …”

Holiday

No School

Essential Question- What are forces beneath the Earth’s crust?

Learning Targets For Students: (1)Plate Movements (2) Earthquakes and (3)  The Earth’s Crust

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on the Earth’s Crust.

Essential Question- What are forces shaping the landforms?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) Weathering (2) Erosion and (3) Glaciers

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on  the forces beneath the earth’s crust.

Essential Question- What are the different types of landforms?

Learning TargetsFor Students:(1) On Land (2) Under the Oceans and (3) Landforms and People.

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on landforms that affect where people live.

Essential Question- What are the main bodies of water?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) Strait (2) Channel and (3) Delta

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on the different bodies of water that exist on the Earth.

Instructional Strategies/

Activities

(Before, During, & After)

 

Objective- Forces Beneath the Earth’s Crust

Bell-Ringer- What was one of the developments of scientists?

Before- Read/Write/Discuss

During- Reviewing Facts

Questions

Find the Words.

Create an advertisement

Strategy- ABC Brainstorm

After- Write 3 conclusive statements.

Whole Group

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

Objective-Forces shaping Landforms.

Bell-Ringer- What is ?

Before- Read/Discuss

During- Create a chart

Completions

Matching

Summary

Strategy- 3-2-1- 3 facts, 2 connections, 1 question I still have 

After- Write one important fact on forces shaping the Earth’s Crust.

Whole Group

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

Objective- Types of Landforms

Bell-Ringer- How are plains and plateaus similar? How are they different?

Before- Read/Discuss

During- Key Terms

Main Ideas

Questions

Summary

Review Facts

Strategy- Save the Last Word For Me

After- Complete applying map skill activity.

Individual Work

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

Objective- Bodies of Water

Bell-Ringer- What is the difference between the source and the mouth of a river?

Before- Read/Write/Discuss

During- Graphic Organizer

Analyze the information

Make Inferences

Recall Facts

Strategy- Write 3 Predictions.

After- Create a drawing on the 3 main bodies of water, identifying each, and describing its characteristics.

Small Group

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

IXL Skills 

 

Social Studies

Social Studies

Social Studies

Social Studies

Resources

(for Parent Transparency)

 

twip.glencoe.com

twip.glencoe.com

twip.glencoe.com

twip.glencoe.com

Student Grouping: X Whole Group X Small Group  X Individual Work 

Assessments: X Formative  XSummative

ACCOMMODATIONS:     Retake Tests,     Preferential Seating,  X    Shorter Assignments,  X   Additional Time,      EL Strategies,       Language Modifications, 

          Compacting the Subject (gifted),       Less Repetition (gifted),       Alternative Assessment,       Other:                                                                       X

 

Lesson Plan - NAME: Debra Mays  GRADE/SUBJECT: 7th Grade/Contemporary Issues-Elective  WEEK OF:January 20th-January 23rd 2026                          

 

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

Standards/Skills

 

Skill-Reading Comprehension

Skill-Reading Comprehension

Skill-Reading Comprehension

Skill-Reading Comprehension

ESSENTIAL QUESTION

Learning Targets

“I can …”

Holiday

No School

Essential Question- What are natural resources used for?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) Factories (2) Using Natural Resources and (3)  Selling Products

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on products and services.

Essential Question-What is the purpose of   countries trading natural resources?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) The United States (2)  China and (3) Japan

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on resources or products that come into a country. 

(ACAP Testing)

Essential Question- What are the three North American Countries?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) Canada (2) Mexico and (3) The United States

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on three countries in North America.

(ACAP Testing)

 

Essential Question- How would you compare Canada and the United States?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) Americans (2) Prime Minister and (3) Elected Representatives

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on the similarities between Canada and the United States.

(ACAP Testing)

Instructional Strategies/

Activities

(Before, During, & After)

 

Objective- Using Natural Resources

Bell-Ringer- What is the connection between factories and natural resources?

Before- Quick Write

During- Questions

Terms to Know

Sum-It-Up

Find the letters

Strategy- ABC Brainstorm

After- Drawing with illustrations.

Whole Group

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

Objective- Trading and the Economy

Bell-Ringer- What are the benefits of trading?

Before- Read/Write/Discuss

During- Word Wall

Unscramble

Complete the words

Graphic Organizer

Strategy- Write 3 predictions.

After- Create an advertisement.

Whole Group

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

Objective- Three North American Countries

Bell-Ringer- How would you describe Canada?

Before- Read/Write

During- Write descriptions on Canada, Mexico, and the United States.

Write 3 descriptive words.

Create a chart

Write 3 reactions

Write 3 conclusive statements

Strategy- Save the Last Word For Me

After- Write how the countries are similar. 

Individual Work

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

Objective- Comparing Canada and the United States

Bell-Ringer- What is the process for becoming Canada’s prime minister?

Before- Read/Write Notes

During- True/False

Fact/Opinion

Cause/Effect

Diagram

Strategy- Write 3 predictions

After- Write your own 2 questions.

Individual Work

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

IXL Skills 

 

Social Studies

Social Studies

Social Studies

Social Studies

Resources

(for Parent Transparency)

 

www.pearsonlearning.com

www.pearsonlearning.com

www.pearsonlearning.com

www.pearsonlearning.com

Student Grouping:X  Whole Group X  Small Group X Individual Work 

Assessments:X  Formative X Summative

ACCOMMODATIONS:     Retake Tests,     Preferential Seating,   X   Shorter Assignments,   X  Additional Time,     EL Strategies,       Language Modifications, 

          Compacting the Subject (gifted),       Less Repetition (gifted),       Alternative Assessment,       Other:                                                                       X

 

Lesson Plan -NAME:  Debra Mays   GRADE/SUBJECT: 7th Grade/Geography    WEEK OF:January 12th-January 16th 2026                           

 

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

Standards/Skills

Standard 1- Describe the world in spatial terms using maps and other geographic representations, tools, and technologies.

Standard 1- Describe the world in spatial terms using maps and other geographic representations, tools, and technologies.

Standard 1- Describe the world in spatial terms using maps and other geographic representations, tools, and technologies.

Standard 1- Describe the world in spatial terms using maps and other geographic representations, tools, and technologies.

Standard 1- Describe the world in spatial terms using maps and other geographic representations, tools, and technologies.

ESSENTIAL QUESTION

Learning Targets

“I can …”

Essential Question - How can geographers view a place?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) Physical Characteristics (2) Human Characteristics and (3) People and Places

I can (as a teacher) hel the students gain knowledge on the way geographers study the earth.

Essential Question- What is the solar system?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) Orbit (2) Sun, Earth, and Moon (3) Earth’s Movement

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on each planet traveling along its own path.

Essential Question- What are forces inside the earth?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) Inside the Earth (2) Forces Beneath the Earth’s Crust. and (3) Forces Shaping Landforms.

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on forces that change the earth’s surface.

Essential Question- What takes place when plates meet?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) Movements of the Earth. (2) Movements against each other. and (3) Earthquakes

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on the movements of the earth’s plates.

Essential Question- What are landforms?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) Plains (2) Elevation and (3) Plateaus

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on landforms in all their variety affecting the way people live.

Instructional Strategies/

Activities

(Before, During, & After)

Objective- A Geographer’s View of Place.

Bell-Ringer- What are 3 major issues geographers look for in studying the earth

Before- Read/Discuss

During- Apply mental maps to answer questions.

Explain differences between physical and human characteristics.

Completions

Create a chart

Identify geospatial technologies.

Strategy- Save the Last Word For Me

Write a summary statement. on a view of places.

After- Write 3 facts that made a difference between physical and human characteristics.

Individual Work

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

.

Objective- The Solar System

Bell-Ringer- How are planets classified?

Before- Read/Write/Discuss

During- List the planets

Place the planets in the different types.

Questions on the planets

Use of a graphic organizer to identify the planets.

Word Wall

Terms to Know

Utilize maps

Strategy- ABC Brainstorm

After- Drawing of the solar system.

Whole Group

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

Objective- The Earth’s Surface.

Bell-Ringer- How can forces both inside the earth and on its earth’s surface affect the shape of the land?

Before- Read/Quick Write

During- Questions- Inside the Earth

Questions- Beneath the Earth’s Crust

Questions- Forces Shaping Landforms

Process information

Strategy- 3-2-1

Write 3 facts, 2 connections, 1 question I still Have on the solar system

After- Write 3 conclusive statements.

Individual Work

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

Objective- When Plates Move.

Bell-Ringer- What are some damages that can result from earthquakes?

Before- Read/Write Discuss

During- Analyze Diagrams

Answer Questions

Key Terms

Find the word from clues.

Draw Conclusions

Analyze people and places.

Strategy- Write 3 predictions about earthquakes.

After- Drawing with illustrations.

Whole Group

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

Objective- Types of landforms and Waterways.

Bell-Ringer- What are Waterways?

Before- Quick Write

During- Identify the types of landforms and waterways.

Questions on landforms.

Questions on waterways.

Completions

Matching

Main Idea Activity

Discuss land-use patterns.  .

Strategy- Turn and Talk

After- Write facts on the importance of landforms as well as waterways.

Small Group

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

IXL Skills 

Social Studies

Social Studies

Social Studies

Social Studies

Social Studies

Resources

(for Parent Transparency)

twip.glencoe.com

twip.glencoe.com

twip.glencoe.com

twip.glencoe.com

twip.glencoe.com

Student Grouping:X  Whole Group X  Small Group  X Individual Work 

Assessments:X Formative X Summative

ACCOMMODATIONS:     Retake Tests,     Preferential Seating,  X    Shorter Assignments,  X   Additional Time,      EL Strategies,       Language Modifications, 

          Compacting the Subject (gifted),       Less Repetition (gifted),       Alternative Assessment,       Other:                                                                       X

 

Lesson Plan - NAME:  Debra Mays  GRADE/SUBJECT: 7th Grade/Contemporary Issues-Elective  WEEK OF: January 12th-January 16th 2026                          

 

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

Standards/Skills

Skill- Reading Comprehension

Skill-Reading Comprehension

Skill-Reading Comprehension

Skill-Reading Comprehension

Skill-Reading Comprehension

ESSENTIAL QUESTION

Learning Targets

“I can …”

Essential Question- What does temperature and rainfall depend on? 

Learning Targets For Students: (1) Colorado (2) Temperatures at the top of the mountains. and (3) High Altitudes

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on temperatures near the mountains.

Essential Question- What is a natural resource?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) Plants and Animals (2) Rocks and Trees (3)Water and soil 

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on any materials found on earth that people use.

Essential Question- what are renewable resources?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) Farmers (2) Rain Refills and (3) Growing too many crops.

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on resources that can be used or made again.

Essential Question- What are non-renewable resources?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) Examples of non-renewable resources.

(2) Resources that can’t be replaced. and (3) New Inventions

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on resources that are gone forever.

Essential Question - What are some uses of natural resources?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) Factories (2) Products and (3) Services

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on resources used to make products.

Instructional Strategies/

Activities

(Before, During, & After)

Objective- Mountain Climate

Bell-Ringer- What is mountain climate?

Before- Read/Discuss

During- Write 3 facts.

Write 3 reactions.

Write 3 conclusive statements.

Write 5 words to describe mountain climate.

Question- What type of clothes is needed for mountain climate?

Strategy- Write 3 predictions about mountain climate.

After- What was the one fact you learned about mountain climate?

Whole Group

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

Objective- What is a Natural Resource?

Bell-Ringer- What is graphite?

Before- Quick Write

During- Explain the need for soil.

Discuss the connection between graphite and the ground.

Reading Check Questions

Find the words using clues.

Strategy- Save the Last Word for Me.

After- Complete a graphic organizer.

Whole Group

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

Objective- Renewable Resources

Bell-Ringer- What can make resources renewable?

Before- Read/Discuss/Write

During- Matching

Compare/Contrast

Sum-It-Up

Write What IF’s on renewable resources

Strategy- 3 facts. 2 connections, 1 question I still have on the use of renewable resources

After- Write 3 examples of renewable resources.

Individual Work

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment.

Objective- Non-Renewable Resources

Bell-Ringer- How are renewable resources different from non-renewable resources?

Before- Read/Write

During- Main Idea Questions

Create a chart

Word Wall - 10 words

Write 2 thoughts on non-renewable resources.

Strategy- ABC Brainstorm

(use the word non-renewable)

After- Discussion

Individual Work

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

Objective- Using Natural Resources

Bell-Ringer- What happens when people sell or buy products?

Before- Quick Write

During- List the uses of natural resources.

What is the importance of a country’s economy?

Main Ideas

Find the letters

Graphic Organizer

Strategy- Turn and Talk

After- Write 2 reactions

Small Group

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

IXL Skills 

Social Studies

Social Studies

Social Studies

Social Studies

Social Studies

Resources

(for Parent Transparency)

www.pearsonlearning.com

www.pearsonlearning.com

www.pearsonlearning.com

www.pearsonlearning.com

www.pearsonlearning.com

Student Grouping: X Whole Group X  Small Group X  Individual Work 

Assessments:X  Formative X Summative

ACCOMMODATIONS:     Retake Tests,     Preferential Seating,   X   Shorter Assignments,  X   Additional Time,      EL Strategies,       Language Modifications, 

          Compacting the Subject (gifted),       Less Repetition (gifted),       Alternative Assessment,       Other:                                                                       X

 

 

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