Shockwave social studies

Teaches comprehension strategies and vocabulary through a study of the physical and emotional effects of war.

Chronicles the history and politics of both World War I and II, including events leading to both wars, trench warfare, and liberation.

Describes the realities of life in Europe during the Middle Ages, discussing the structure of society, manors, castles, knights and armor, the church, women, towns, and guilds.

Examines the life and adventures of explorer Steve Fossett who has set over 100 official world records in balloons, airplanes, sailboats, gliders, and airships.

Teaches comprehension strategies and vocabulary through a study of the achievements of naturalists and scientists including John Muir, Charles Darwin, and Aldo Leopold.

Reviews the history of Africa, looks at life in some of the different villages and among various African peoples, and discusses the challenge of integrating traditions with change. Considers the question of whether wealthy countries should cancel Africa's debt.

Profiles a number of men and women who have worked to improve conditions for millions of people around the world including Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet, Eleanor Roosevelt, Louis Braille, Gandhi, and Frederick Douglass.

Describes various training camps for kids who are involved in extreme sports such as competitive skateboarding, BMX and mountain biking, and tumbling.

Examines how and where writers get their ideas and inspirations to create fiction.

Profiles a number of men and women who are involved in dangerous sports or occupations including race car driver Danica Patrick, gold medal bobsledder Vonetta Flowers, speed skier Michael Milton, and test pilot Chuck Yeager.