8th Grade History Overview
Overview
Eighth graders will explore historical events that shaped America, focusing on diverse groups and their contributions to society. The course will also delve into the principles of the constitutional process, analyzing its relevance to current events.
Texts and Resources
- Primary Text: A More Perfect Union (Houghton Mifflin)
- Additional resources: Various publications, articles, and editorials.
Course Format
- Class Structure: Lectures and slideshows with note-taking, seminar-style discussions, and periodic labs/activities integrated into discussions.
- Seminars: Emphasis on critical thinking and reflection.
Materials
- Notebook: Students should maintain a spiral-bound notebook for notes and a sleeved folder (preferably a binder) for handouts. All materials from class lectures, handouts, maps, and student-interpreted renderings will be included.
Assignments & Projects
- Research Papers: Emphasis on critical thinking. Students will gather historical information and synthesize it into written reports/papers. A rubric will be provided ahead of each assignment.
- Class Projects: Creative research projects (some individual, some group-based) involving art, role-play, multimedia, or model-making, balanced with solid research. A rubric will outline project expectations. Some projects may also require a written component.
- Homework: Projects and research papers will be completed at home, but class time will be provided for other assignments. Homework may include additional reading or research to supplement class materials, followed by assessments or tests.
Assessments
- Tests & Quizzes: Review periods will be dedicated before unit tests/quizzes. Test dates will be posted on ThinkWave at least one week in advance. Mid-terms and finals may include a test or a research paper depending on the unit.
- Grading: Points-based grading system for tests, quizzes, and research projects. Emphasis is placed on demonstrating an understanding of historical concepts and the ability to apply critical analysis.
8th Grade Course Overview – Part One
Geography will be taught concurrently with each unit throughout the year.
Below are the units covered in the first half of the year, organized both chronologically and thematically:
1. The Land
Geographical exploration of America’s topography and its influence on historical events.
2. Earliest Americans
Introduction to the original inhabitants and their historical significance.
3. European Exploration
The beginnings of commerce, colonization, and conversion.
4. Early European Settlements
European interests in the “New World” and the conflicts and communities they created.
5. The British Colonial Period
Examining the makeup of the colonies, daily life, and the challenges of being ruled from afar.
6. French and English Conflicts
Exploring the impacts of these conflicts on both the “old” and “new” world.
7. Emerging Identity in the Colonies
Concepts of pluralism, immigration, and the role of salutary neglect.
8. Religious Influences in the Colonies
The intersection of the First Awakening and self-rule.
9. Pre-Revolutionary Ideas and Events
Rebellion against British acts, the role of pamphlets in spreading ideas, and the figures behind these movements.
10. The American Revolution
Key events, geography, and emerging leaders of the rebellion.
11. Inside the Mind of Jefferson
Influences on Thomas Jefferson’s thinking and the intent behind his words.
12. Early Expansion in the Northwest Territory
Why this expansion was vital to a new nation.
13. Working It Out – The Constitution/Bill of Rights
The historical context behind the rulebook of democracy, focusing on the conflicts, compromises, debates, and ratification process.
14. Understanding the Constitutional Process
Overview of the separation of powers and how it relates to current events. Creating a metaphor for the three branches of government.
15. Tests of Foreign Relations and U.S. Sovereignty
The War of 1812, the Monroe Doctrine, and Andrew Jackson’s emergence as a frontiersman.
16. A Nation Grows
Westward expansion, Manifest Destiny, and the Great Awakening’s influence on economic and geographical differences.
17. The Institution of Slavery
A timeline exploring the history, economics, and potential division caused by slavery. Includes reading Now is Your Time by Walter Dean Myers.