Embedded Files
Grade 8 Social Studies
New York State’s Social Studies 8th Grade Curriculum:
7.8 A NATION DIVIDED:
Westward expansion, the industrialization of the North, and the increase of slavery in the South contributed to the growth of sectionalism. Constitutional conflicts between advocates of states’ rights and supporters of federal power increased tensions in the nation; attempts to compromise ultimately failed to keep the nation together, leading to the Civil War.
8.1 RECONSTRUCTION:
Regional tensions following the Civil War complicated efforts to heal the nation and to redefine the status of African Americans.
8.2 A CHANGING SOCIETY:
Industrialization and immigration contributed to the urbanization of America. Problems resulting from these changes sparked the Progressive movement and increased calls for reform.
8.3 EXPANSION AND IMPERIALISM:
Beginning in the second half of the 19th century, economic, political, and cultural factors contributed to a push for westward expansion and more aggressive United States foreign policy.
8.4 WORLD WAR I AND THE ROARING TWENTIES:
Various diplomatic, economic, and ideological factors contributed to the United States decision to enter World War I. Involvement in the war significantly altered the lives of Americans. Postwar America was characterized by economic prosperity, technological innovations, and changes in the workplace.
8.5 GREAT DEPRESSION:
Economic and environmental disasters in the 1930s created hardships for many Americans. Amidst much debate about the appropriate role of government, President Franklin D. Roosevelt helped to create intensive government interventions in the United States economy and society.
8.6 WORLD WAR II:
The aggression of the Axis powers threatened United States security and led to its entry into World War II. The nature and consequences of warfare during World War II transformed the United States and the global community. The damage from total warfare and atrocities such as the Holocaust led to a call for international efforts to protect human rights and prevent future wars.
8.7 FOREIGN POLICY:
The period after World War II has been characterized by an ideological and political struggle, first between the United States and communism during the Cold War, then between the United States and forces of instability in the Middle East. Increased economic interdependence and competition, as well as environmental concerns, are challenges faced by the United States.
8.8 DEMOGRAPHIC CHANGE:
After World War II, the population of the United States rose sharply as a result of both natural increases and immigration. Population movements have resulted in changes to the American landscape and shifting political power. An aging population is affecting the economy and straining public resources.
8.9 DOMESTIC POLITICS AND REFORM:
The civil rights movement and the Great Society were attempts by people and the government to address major social, legal, economic, and environmental problems. Subsequent economic recession called for a new economic program.
OSWALD WILLIS
Expectations and Grading Policy
Grade 8 Social Studies curriculum is geared to help students develop a basic understanding of American History. At the end of the school year, students will develop the necessary skills to analyze and evaluate key social, economic, and political events that occurred throughout our nation’s history. In addition, it is crucial that students are able to make connections between the past and the present. Below is the list of topics that will be covered during the 2024-2025 school year.
The Grade 10 topics that will be covered for the 2024-2025 school year are as followed.
7.8 A NATION DIVIDED 8.5 GREAT DEPRESSION
8.1 RECONSTRUCTION 8.6 WORLD WAR II
8.2 A CHANGING SOCIETY 8.7 FOREIGN POLICY
8.3 EXPANSION AND IMPERIALISM 8.8 DEMOGRAPHIC CHANGE
8.4 WORLD WAR I AND THE ROARING TWENTIES 8.9 DOMESTIC POLITICS AND REFORM
Our Social Studies curriculum is based on the following New York State and Common Core Standards:
1. History of the United States and New York 4. Economics
2. History of the World 5. Civics, Citizenship, and Government
3. Geography
All students are expected to meet the following grading criteria for the class.
Class-work and projects
Tests and Quizzes
Research Projects
Homework
Participation
Notebook/binder with 2 sections
Description
Homework:
Homework will be assigned every Monday and Wednesday and will be given a due date. If a student misses an assignment with a legitimate excuse he/she can make it up for the following day.
Classwork:
Class work is given each day. Students should complete class-work during the 50 minute period.
Notebook Organization:
Students must write the heading (for both homework and class-work) each day, which will include his or her name, teacher’s name, date, subject, and period. The following is an example of an acceptable heading.
Mr. Willis 9/9/24
Jane/John Doe Period 1
Along with the suggested heading above, students must copy the “Essential Question” and answer the “Do Now” each day. Students should have a separate section for homework and a separate section for class-work in their notebook or binder.
Tests/Projects:
Students will be given tests and projects to assess their knowledge and understanding of Social Studies concepts and content.
Class Participation/Discussion:
Students are encouraged to participate in class discussions at all times. Participation helps develop a better understanding of the subject matter.
Sincerely,
Oswald Willis
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