Welcome to 8th Grade Social Studies!  During the school year, we will study a wide variety of topics.  Eight grade students will begin the year with the study of civics and economics. They will learn about the role of the citizen in the American political and economic systems, focusing on essential knowledge of the United States at the national, state, and local levels. Students will also learn the basic principles, structure, and operation of the American economy. This is intended to foster patriotism, respect for the law, a sense of civic duty, and informed economic decision making.

• The Early Republic (1789 to 1825) – 
Democracy, Alliances, Louisiana Purchase, War of 1812, and the Industrial Revolution

• An Era of Expansion (1824 to 1860) – 
Westward Expansion, Republic of Texas, Mexican- American War, Women’s & Human Rights

• Division and Reunion (1850 to 1877) – 
Civil War, Foreign Policy

    Most of the resources will come from a variety of sources including essays, studies, newspapers/periodicals, maps, charts, graphs, political cartoons, and government documents.  Students will also gain literal understanding of readings and also interpret, analyze, and evaluate information from readings.

    Writing will be used regularly and effectively in various domains including: narrative, descriptive, persuasive, analytical, and practical.  Suggested written assignments include: essays, journals, book reviews, document based questions, journals and research papers.