1. 2011- 2012
8Y Social Studies
Social Studies Snapshot
Historians believe that history is
about thinking, not memorizing. It
is about comparing different stories
Our Units and weighing different perspectives.
Historical thinking matters because
Civics & Service Learning History of US it prepares us for the challenges we
Essential Questions Essential Questions face as citizens in the present.
How do societies balance the needs of How do interpretations of history Participation in public life requires
individuals and the common good? inform our understanding of the past the need to evaluate information
How have economic, social, political,
and present? critically.
and geographic decisions promoted or How does the study of multiple
-Professor Sam Wineburg,
prevented the growth of individual perspectives provide a context for
Stanford University
rights and responsibilities, equality, and understanding people's words and
historicalthinkingmatters.org
respect for human dignity? deeds in the past and present?
Through inquiry and analysis,
Content students will integrate content-
Content
Origins of Government based reading, writing, research,
Many Worlds Meet (to 1620)
Rights and Responsibilities of Citizens historical thinking, and 21st century
Colonization (1585-1763)
The US Constitution skills.
Revolution & the New Nation
The Bill of Rights
(1754-1820)
Universal Declaration of Human Rights Grading
Expansion & Reform (1801-1861)
Current Events/Social Issues Effort 30%
Civil War & Reconstruction (1850-1877)
Leadership HW, CW, Participation
Propaganda Assessments 70%
Projects/Tests (40%) Quizzes (30%)

2. CURRICULUMIPSUMS
THE LOREM FALL 2012
th
The 8 grade Social Studies curriculum is standards-based and requires students to transfer knowledge to real life
scenarios. Historical thinking and real world application foster rigorous, relevant, and meaningful learning. Through inquiry
and analysis, students study American Government and its origins and explore five Historical Eras. Authentic and
differentiated learning activities enhance understanding of challenging material (i.e., CSI, Choose Your Own Adventure).
Students expand thinking by making connections to text, to self, and to the world. Digital tools offer compelling
opportunities for student acquisition of 21st century skills (i.e., create, communicate, collaborate, and fact-find).
HISTORICAL THINKING SKILLS
Chronological Reasoning (Cause/Effect, Continuity/Change) * Spatial Thinking (Explain economic and political systems
using geographic representations)* Historical Comprehension, Analysis and Interpretation (Analyze/ Evaluate Primary and
Secondary Sources) * Research and Cross-Checking (Support interpretations with sound evidence) *
ASSESSMENTS
PROJECTS require students to conduct research and synthesize their learning by creating an authentic product that
communicates a thorough understanding of the content. Projects include CHOICES based on interest, talents, and/or
learning styles. CHOICES include hands on activities and technology integration. At times, students will collaborate with
their peers but may choose to complete projects independently. Project rubrics will be sent home for parent signatures.
QUIZZES assess learning on one to two lessons. Thus, quizzes are short (10-15 questions). It is EXPECTED that students
review notes daily. Students receive 1-2 days notice for quizzes.
TESTS: Study guides are provided 3-5 days in advance. Taking detailed notes, participating in discussions, and a good
work ethic are key factors in developing a deep understanding of material.
PARTICIPATION: Participation is more than physical presence. ABSENCES: Go to the Calendar on the class blog
Participation includes meaningful contributions to class (discussions, for the daily list of Activities and HW. Click,
debates, blog comments, etc.), answering and asking questions, “AGENDA/HW” (top left). Use the blog to view
offering and accepting “warm and cool” feedback, following and complete missed work (slideshows,
directions, and cooperating with the teachers and students in class. handouts, videos, etc.).
HOMEWORK: Daily review helps students add to class discussions, SUBMIT ABSENCE WORK: Write "ABSENT on
earn extra credit, and deepen understanding. HW assignments (provide the date)" next to your name. If
include review activities, study tools, or preparation. Students record work is not turned in within the amount of time
HW in the AGENDA book at the beginning of class. HW is due at the equal to your absence, it will be counted as late
start of class. Incomplete HW is not assigned a grade. Instead, or receive a “0.”
student may submit HW 1 day late for HALF credit. ABSENCES THE DAY BEFORE A TEST: Students will
HW/CW GRADES: take the test upon return to school. Daily review
1 Point = Student followed directions and completed assignment is required and class materials are accessible on
thoroughly. the class blog. Therefore, extra days will NOT be
½ Point = Student submitted completed assignment 1 day late. provided. It is the students' responsibility to see
0 = Student did not turn in assignment. the teacher for testing. Failure to make up the
Per school district policy, HW/CW is graded for effort, not accuracy. test on time will result in –10 points per day.
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