SC History
Social Studies Syllabus
Bryson Middle School
Eighth GRADE SOCIAL STUDIES SYLLABUS
Scott Stevens (864) 355-2123
COURSE DESCRIPTION
The focus for social studies in grade eight is the story of the history of South Carolina and the role that the state and its people have played in the development of the United States as a nation. This study begins with South Carolina's colonial development and settlement as a British colony. South Carolinians played pivotal roles throughout the American Revolution and the Constitutional Convention, which established the foundations for the new nation. Sectional division came as a result of the growing institution of slavery, interpretations of the role of government, and expansion of the nation. South Carolina led the secession of southern states, culminating in the Civil War. As the nation attempted to heal the wounds of the war, Reconstruction policies brought about political change while sectional division remained. The end of the 19th century ushered in industrialization to South Carolina and the nation, providing new opportunities for many people. Throughout the 20th century, South Carolina emerged as a national leader for defense production, agriculture, and tourism. As the state grew economically, social change was also brought on by the Civil Rights Movement. During the turn of the 21st century, South Carolina continues to attract businesses and people, while continuing to find solutions to new challenges.
Instruction should utilize the historical thinking skills (Comparison; Causation; Periodization: Context; Continuities and Change; Evidence) and themes developed for grade eight. These historical thinking skills are aligned with the Profile of the South Carolina Graduate, with a focus on world-class knowledge, world-class skills, and life and career characteristics.
SC History Standards
Link:
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1RkwubYN37CHodVNK8MUvY0lDZnv2rTcb9_FVsN4LDHg/edit?usp=sharing
INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS AND RESOURCES
Google Classroom
Hicks, T. (2013). The South Carolina journey. Layton, UT: Gibbs Smith Education.
REQUIRED COURSE MATERIALS
Please have a charged Chromebook for each day of school.
· Three-Ring Binder/Folder
· Notebook Paper
· Highlighter/Dry Erase Markers
· Blue/Black Pen
· Pencils
COURSE EVALUATION
Students progress will be assessed every quarter based on three major areas. They are as follows:
· Major Assessments- 5 0% - Tests are given at the end of every unit of study. Three or Four tests per marking period are required, which means students will generally have a test every two to three weeks. All tests are announced at least one week in advance. Papers and projects will also be counted as major assessments.
· Minor Grades - 50% - This includes class work and quizzes. All work is expected to be completed. Quizzes are given periodically throughout a unit of study. There should be a total of 8-12 minor assignments
COURSE GRADING SCALE
The following scale is used to assign grades:
A 100-90
B 89-80
C 79-70
D 69-60
F Below 60
Eighth Grade Schedule
1st Period (S.A.I.L) 8:30AM-8:55AM
2nd Period 9:00AM-9:56AM
3rd Period 9:58AM-10:58AM
Lunch 11:05-11:35
4th Period RA 1 11:35AM-12:26AM
5th Period RA 2 12:28AM-1:13PM
6th Period 1:14PM-2:15PM
7th Period 2:17PM-3:15PM
Classroom Expectations
Rules for student behavior and violation consequences are located in the Bryson Handbook which is posted on the Bryson website.
In addition to district and school rules, students will adhere to the following classroom rules:
1. Follow all adult directions the first time they are given.
2. Be seated and prepared to begin class promptly. Bring all necessary materials to class.
3. Keep all activities from disrupting others.
4. Show respect and consideration for your classmates and teachers.
5. Obey all school rules.
MagicSchool AI Tools for Students
This year, students will have access to MagicSchool AI, a generative AI platform built for schools that will help them learn to use the technology safely and responsibly.
With tools like ChatGPT and others being used in the professional world, it’s important that students learn how to use the technology safely. By using MagicSchool in our classes, your student will be prepared for the future of technology in the workforce.
While students use MagicSchool tools for purposes such as receiving real time feedback, getting their questions answered, generating images, and in other exciting ways, I will have access to their chats to ensure that it’s used appropriately. Rest assured, MagicSchool does not collect or train on student data.
Be sure to ask your child about how they’re using AI in the classroom and take a look at the engaging ways they’ve utilized the MagicSchool tools to enhance their learning!
For more information, go to www.magicschool.ai or reach out directly with questions.
If you have any questions please don't hesitate to contact me.