Grade Level - 7th and 8th

SOL/Standard - History and Social Science Standards of Learning 

United States History: 1865 to the Present

Skills USII.1 The student will demonstrate skills for historical thinking, geographical analysis, economic decision making, and responsible citizenship

Geography USII.2 The student will use maps, globes, photographs, pictures, or tables

Reconstruction: 1865 to 1877  USII.3 The student will apply social science skills to understand the effects of Reconstruction on American life 

Reshaping the Nation and the Emergence of Modern America: 1877 to the Early 1900s USII.4 The student will apply social science skills to understand how life changed after the Civil War 

English Standards of Learning for 2024 Grade 8

8.W.3 Usage and Mechanics

Imagine stepping into the shoes of a brave immigrant journeying to the United States between 1890 and 1915. In this learning experience, students will do just that. They will use their historical knowledge to craft compelling historical fiction stories that bring to life the challenges and triumphs of immigration during this era. Their stories will follow fictional characters through treacherous travel conditions, bustling industrial cities, westward expansion, and the promise of a better life in the United States. Through this experience, students will gain a deeper understanding of the human spirit and resilience as they imagine life from their characters’ points of view.

To enhance this activity, students will engage in peer review sessions, actively listening to each other's stories and providing constructive feedback. Emphasis will be placed on clear and concise writing, guiding students to express their ideas effectively. They will learn and apply techniques of effective writing, including strong introductions, coherent plot development, and impactful conclusions. Additionally, students will analyze historical photographs, documents, and other media from the time period to enhance the authenticity of their stories.

Students will use various modes of communication, such as text, images, and audio, to create a rich, multimodal narrative. This will be facilitated through Book Creator, allowing for a dynamic final product. Through collaborative activities, students will build relationships with their peers, learning to work together and support each other in the creative process. The final product will be a digital book compiled using Book Creator, showcasing their historical fiction narratives enriched with multimedia elements and demonstrating their understanding of the immigrant experience during 1890-1915.