Social Studies Warm-Ups for Middle School

So this comes from a request about how I do warm ups in my classroom. Our team does Warm Up packets per grading period. We plan for them for three days a week-- the other days we warm up by reviewing our memory chants/tricks or the students recite their memorization piece for the six weeks.  

Our warm ups generally work in TWO parts:

There is one STAAR Formatted Question and one knowledge based question. 

The STAAR Formatted Question: 
This usually it comes from a Released STAAR Test. Students are required to show strategies on this question. We have a school strategy that we use and we require students demonstrate knowledge on these question beyond circling and underlining. 

Knowledge Based Question: 
The knowledge based question is formatted in multiple ways, lists, visuals, etc.  It is usually something they can easily find in their notes or recall quickly from memory. 

Examples: 
List four things you can remember about the Louisiana Purchase.
What are the five weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation?
Write your document chant. 

I generally do this because it helps build kids confidence at the beginning of class and allows them to practice skills they will need on their tests/quizzes. 

I hope this was helpful! Happy Teaching!