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:March 2nd-March 6th 2026                      

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

Standards/Skills

Standard 5- Explain how cultural features, traits, and diffusion help define regions, including religious structures, agricultural patterns, ethnic enclaves, ethnic restaurants, and the spread of Islam.

Standard 5- Explain how cultural features, traits, and diffusion help define regions, including religious structures, agricultural patterns, ethnic enclaves ,ethnic restaurants, and the spread of Islam

Standard 5-Explain how cultural features, traits, and diffusion help define regions, including religious structures, agricultural patterns, ethnic enclaves, ethnic restaurants, and the spread of Islam.

Standard 5- Explain how cultural features, traits, and diffusion help define regions, including religious structures, agricultural patterns, ethnic enclaves, ethnic restaurants, and the spread of Islam.

Standard 5- Explain how cultural features, traits, and diffusion help define regions, including religious structures, agricultural patterns, ethnic enclaves, ethnic restaurants, and the spread of Islam.

ESSENTIAL QUESTION

Learning Targets

“I can …”

Essential Question- Why is a government system needed?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) Democracy (2) Dictatorship and (3) Monarchy

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on rules needed in order to live together without conflict

Essential Question- What is Cultural Diffusion?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) Civilization (2)Cultural Diffusion and (3) Culture Region

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on cultures that do not remain the same.

Essential Question- What are cultural regions?

Learning Targets For Students: (1)Economic Systems (2) Common Characteristics and (3) Traits in Common

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on areas that share common food, dress, and housing.

Essential Question- What are three reasons for population growth?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) Population Growth (2)  The World’s Population and (3) Better Health Care

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on where most people in the world live.

Essential Question- What are traditions ?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) Daily Life (2) History and (3) The Arts

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on the way people express their culture.

Instructional Strategies/

Activities

(Before, During, & After)

Objective- The Government System

Bell-Ringer- What does culture include?

Before- Read/Write 5 facts

During- Create a chart 

Completions

Matching

Strategy- Turn and Talk

After- Key Ideas

Whole Group

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

Objective- Cultural Change

Bell-Ringer- How did people learn to grow food?

Before- Read/Write Notes

During- Cover Title

Introduction

Information

Drawing

Reaction

Strategy- ABC Brainstorm-Use the word

CHANGE

After- Each group will present and write 3 conclusive statements. 

Small Group

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

Objective- Cultural Regions

Bell-Ringer- What is meant by the term “New Revolution”?

Before- Read/Write/Discuss

During- Recalling Facts

Critical Thinking Questions

Graphic Organizer

Sum-IT-Up

Strategy- Write 3 predictions

After- Advertisement

Individual Work

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment 

Objective- Population Patterns

Bell-Ringer- What is population density?

Before- Quick Write

During- Create a chart on population growth for the United States.

Create a title

Write information on the title

Write 2 questions that apply to the title.

Complete a Venn Diagram

Strategy-Save the Last Word For Me

After- Write 3 reactions

Small Group

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

Objective- Important Parts of Culture

Bell-Ringer- What role does history play around the world?

Before- Quick Write

During- 5 facts

Completions

Unscramble

Strategy3-2-1

After- Drawing

Whole 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: March 2nd - March 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- What do millions of people have access to today?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) The Internet (2) Web Sites and (3) Computer Access

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

Essential Question- What is the responsibility of economists?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) Trade-Offs (2) Opportunity Coast and (3) Informal Decisions

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on a wise individual dealing with economics.

Essential Question- What are the four factors of production?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) Productivity (2) Consumers and (3) Economic Decisions

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

Essential Question- What is a demand curve?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) Consumer Incomes (2) Demand Elasticity and (3) A Product or Service

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on a consumer’s  ability to buy a good or service.

Essential Question- What is Supply?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) Productivity (2) Technology and (3) Government Policies

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on the principle that suppliers will offer for sale.

Instructional Strategies/

Activities

(Before, During, & After)

Objective- Citizenship and the Internet

Bell-Ringer- What is computer access?

Before- Quick Write

During- Completions

Sentences

Strategy- Write 3 predictions

After- Questions

Individual Work

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

Objective- What is Economics?

Bell-Ringer- What is economics?

Before- Read/Write/Discuss

During- Matching

Find the Letter

True/False

Strategy- Save the Last Word For Me

After- Advertisement

Whole Group

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

Objective- The American Economy

Bell-Ringer- What should consumers be aware of?

Before- Read/Write Notes

During- Unscramble

Word Wall

Fact/Opinion

Strategy- 3-2-1

After- Questions

Individual Work

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

Objective- Demand

Bell-Ringer- How can demand be summarized?

Before- Read/ Discuss

During- Venn Diagram

Main Idea

Strategy- ABC Brainstorm

After- Drawing

Whole Group

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

Objective- Supply

Bell-Ringer- How does prices relate to our economy?

Before- Quick Write

During- Word wall- 5 words

Key Terms

Sum-It-Up

Graphic Organizer

Strategy Turn and Talk

After- Write 3 examples of supply.

Small Group

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

IXL Skills 

Social Studies

Social Studies

Social Studies

Social Studies

Social Studies

Resources

(for Parent Transparency)

Dinah Zike’s Reading and Study Skills

Dinah Zike’s Reading and Study Skills

Dinah Zike’s Reading and Study Skills 

Dinah Zike’s Reading and Study Skills

Dinah Zike’s Reading and Study Skill

Student Grouping:X Whole Group   XSmall 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: February 23rd-February 27th 2026  

 

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

Standards/Skills

Standard 5- Explain how cultural features, traits, and diffusion help define regions, including religious structures, agricultural  patterns, ethnic enclaves, ethnic restaurants, and the spread of Islam.

Standard 5- Explain how cultural features, traits, and diffusion help define regions, including religious structures, agricultural patterns, ethnic enclaves, ethnic restaurants, and the spread of Islam.

Standard 5- Explain how cultural features, traits, and diffusion help define regions, including religious structures, agricultural patterns, ethnic enclaves, ethnic restaurants, and the spread of Islam.

Standard 5- Explain how cultural features, traits, and diffusion help define regions, including religious structures, agricultural patterns, ethnic enclaves, ethnic restaurants, and the spread of Islam.

Standard 5- Explain how cultural features, traits, and diffusion help define regions, including religious structures, agricultural patterns, ethnic enclaves, ethnic restaurants, the the spread of Islam.

ESSENTIAL QUESTION

Learning Targets

“I can …”

Essential Question- What are cultural features?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) Culture (2) Social Groups and (3) Exploring Our World

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on how people make a living.

Essential Question- What is an ethnic group?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) Dialect (2) Language and (3) Unifying Forces for a culture.

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on a common history,language, and some physical characteristics of a particular ethnic group.

Essential Question- Why do people need rules?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) Democracy    (2) Dictatorship and (3) Monarchy

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on ways to live together without conflict.

Essential Question- Why do people need rules?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) Democracy (2) Dictatorship and (3) Monarchy

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on rules and laws created by governments.

Essential Question- What is cultural change?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) Cultural Diffusion (2) Civilizations and (3) Culture Regions

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on similar economic systems, forms of government, and social groups.

Instructional Strategies/

Activities

(Before, During, & After)

Objective- What is Culture?

Bell-Ringer- What is one way

of studying culture?

Before- Quick Write

During- Questions

Descriptive Words

Diagram on the elements of culture

Strategy- Write 3 predictions.

After- Write 3 examples of the way people celebrate their culture.

Individual Work

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

 

Objective- Social Groups

Bell-Ringer-What is meant by the term “Sharing a Language”?

Before- Read/Write/Discuss

During-  Completions

Find the Words

Strategy- Save the Last Word For Me

After- Advertisement 

Whole Group

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

Objective- How People Express Culture?

Bell-Ringer- How does history shape our view of the world?

Before- Read/Write Notes

During-Write 3 restaurants that shape our culture.

How can people express their culture through the arts?

Write foods that reflect your daily life.

Matching

Strategy- 3-2-1

After- Drawing

Individual Work

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

 

Objective- Government Laws

Bell-Ringer- What takes place in a limited government?

Before- Quick Write

During- Unscramble

Find the letters

Complete the Statement

Write 3 conclusive statements.

Strategy- ABC Brainstorm

After- What can culture include?

Whole Group

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

Objective- Culture Over Time

Bell-Ringer- What started about 10,000 years ago?

Before- Read/Write/Discuss

During- True/False

Patterns of Cultural Change

Fact/Opinion

Cause/Effect

Word Wall

Sum-It-Up

Strategy- Turn and Talk

After- Questions

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  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 23rd-February 27th 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- How can the government be influenced?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) Public Opinion (2) Interest Groups and (3) Citizens

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on the ideas and attitudes that most people hold about elected officials.

Essential Question- When was the federal system created?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) U.S. Constitution (2) U.S. Congress and (3) State Courts

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on powers shared between the national and state governments.

Essential Question- What is the responsibility of the local government?

Learning Targets For Students: (1)Townships (2) City Charter and (3) County Governments

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on the everyday needs of American citizens.

Essential Question- What is the process to be considered when making public policy?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) Commissions (2) Community Leaders and (3) Protecting the environment

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on social programs and decisions about the community’s challenging future.

Essential Question- What are criminal cases?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) Criminal Cases (2) Civil Cases and (3) The Juvenile Courts

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on a legal process or procedure.

Instructional Strategies/

Activities

(Before, During, & After)

Objective- Influencing Government

Bell-Ringer - Why do citizens join together?

Before- Read/Write/Discuss

During- Completions

Descriptive Words

Strategy- Write 3 predictions

After-Reading Check Question

Individual Work

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

Objective- State Government

Bell-Ringer- What is a governor’s most important role as the state’s chief executive?

Before- Quick Write

During- Questions

Graphic Organizer

True/False

Strategy- Save the Last Word For Me.

After- Write 3 conclusive statements.

Individual Work

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

Objective- Local Government

Bell-Ringer- What are the different kinds of local government?

Before- Read/Write 5 facts

Unscramble

Find the letter

Strategy- 3-2-1

After- Drawing

Whole Group

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

Objective- Dealing with Community Issues

Bell-Ringer- What are some challenges local school leaders face?

Before- Read/Write/Discuss

During- Matching

Main Idea

Review Facts

Strategy- ABC Brainstorm

After- Advertisement

Whole Group

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

Objective- Civil and Criminal Law

Bell-Ringer- What does criminal cases involve?

Before- Read/Wrote Facts

During- Completions

True/False

Chart

Fact/Opinion

Strategy- Turn and Talk

After- Write 2 examples of civil cases and 2 examples of criminal cases.

Small Group

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment.

IXL Skills 

Social Studies

Social Studies

Social Studies

Social Studies

Social Studies

Resources

(for Parent Transparency)

Glencoe/McGraw-Hill

Glencoe/McGraw-Hill

Glencoe/McGraw-Hill

Glencoe/McGraw-Hill

Glencoe/McGraw-Hill

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/Geography         WEEK OF: February 17th-February 20th 2026                           

 

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

Standards/Skills

 

Standard 4- Evaluate spatial patterns and the demographic structure of  the population on Earth’s surface in terms of density, dispersion, growth and mortality rates, natural increase, and doubling time.

Standard 4- Evaluate spatial patterns and the demographic structure of the population on Earth’s surface in terms of density, dispersion, growth and mortality rates, natural increase, and doubling time.

Standard 4- Evaluate spatial patterns and the demographic structure of the population on Earth’s surface in terms of density, dispersion, growth and mortality rates, natural increase, and doubling time.

Standard 4- Evaluate spatial patterns and the demographic structure of the population on Earth’s surface in terms of density, dispersion, growth and mortality rates, natural increase, and doubling time.

ESSENTIAL QUESTION

Learning Targets

“I can …”

President’s Day

No Students

Essential Question- What are some examples of major population clusters?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) Population Growth (2) Health Care and (3) Birthrate

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on reasons for population growth.

Essential Question- What are some changes from population growth?

Learning Targets For Students:(1) Disasters (2) Technology and (3) Creativity

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on reasons and consequences of migration.

Essential Question- What is population distribution?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) Industrial Age (2) Religious Significance and (3) Population Density

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on large numbers of people who cannot survive on land.

Essential Question- What is population movement?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) Urbanization (2) Moving in Great Numbers and (3) Suburb to Suburb

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on people moving from place to place. 

Instructional Strategies/

Activities

(Before, During, & After)

 

Objective- Population Patterns

Bell-Ringer- How fast has the earth’s population grown?

Before- Quick Write

During- Word Wall

True/False

Fact/Opinion

Strategy- Write 3 predictions

After- Reading Check Questions

Individual Work

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

Objective- Challenges From Population Growth

Bell-Ringer- What is famine?

Before-Read/Write/Discuss

During- Summary

Reviewing Main Ideas

Graphic Organizer

Strategy- 3-2-1

After-Drawing

Individual Work

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

Objective- Population Density.

Bell-Ringer- What is the importance of government and transportation centers?

Before- Read/Write Notes

During-  True/False

Questions

Sum-IT-Up

Strategy-Save the Last Word For Me

After- Advertisement

Whole Group

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

Objective- Population Movement

Bell-Ringer- Why are people moving in great numbers?

Before- Quick Write

During- Completions

Unscramble

Summary

Strategy- ABC Brainstorm

After- Write 3 reactions

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:  Contemporary Issues- Elective       WEEK OF: February 17th- February 20th 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 …”

President’s Day

No Students

Essential Question- What does it mean to be a citizen?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) Rights (2) Duties and (3) Responsibilities

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on the citizen and the community.  

Essential Question- What does Congress make-up?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) Representatives (2) Senators and (3) Leaders

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on procedures to guide a bill into law.

Essential Question- What are the functions of the Judicial Branch of Government?

Learning Targets For Students: (1) The Courts (2) The U.S. Constitution and (3) Equal Justice 

under the Law.

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on the Judicial Branch of Government.

Essential Question- What is meant by the term “Influencing Government?”

Learning Targets For Students: (1) Public Opinion (2) Political Issues and (3) Mass Media

I can (as a teacher) help the students gain knowledge on ideas and attitudes that most people hold about elected officials.

Instructional Strategies/

Activities

(Before, During, & After)

 

Objective- The Citizen and the Community

Bell-Ringer- What is volunteerism?

Before- Read/Write/Discuss

During- Find the Words

Unscramble

Strategy- ABC Brainstorm

After- Questions

Individual Work

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

Objective- Congress

Bell-Ringer- What are some powers of Congress?

Before- Quick Write

During- Chart

Word Wall

Questions

Strategy- 3 Predictions

After- Drawing

Individual Work

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

Objective- The Judicial Branch

Bell-Ringer- How would you describe the American Judicial System?

Before- Read/Write 3 Facts

During - Matching

Main Idea

Strategy- Save the Last Word For Me

After- Advertisement

Whole Group

Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment

Objective- Influencing Government

Bell-Ringer- What does public opinion include?

Before- Quick Write

During- Matching

Unscramble

Find the Letters

Strategy- 3-2-1

After- Write 2 examples of public opinion.

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/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

 

 

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