The eighth grade program is a survey of United States history from the late
18th century to modern times. Through historical lenses our eighth graders study
the events that affect their lives today and have shaped our culture. Students
review world and U.S. geography and study U.S. institutions with an emphasis
on the foundations and principles of democracy. Historical literature, current
events, biography, and primary sources supplement a textbook to make United
States history a living framework from which students can question and understand
the present.
Goals and Objectives
The eighth year in history is one where students learn and practice the skills
of thinking as an historian, understand our federal system of government, and
analyze events of our unique history in relation to world history.
Skills
Refines analytical writing, reading, and listening skills
Appreciates the connection between cause and effect
Appreciates historical empathy
Draws connections between past, present, and future
Recognizes chronological relationships
Understands stabilizing and destabilizing forces in history
Continues work on listening and note-taking skills
Refines public speaking and debate skills
Practices organization skills: time management, test preparation
Understands first- and second-person historical sources
Continues work on geography skills
Content
The Colonial Period
Foundations of government; how the government works
Study of the causes of the Civil War
The Civil War and Reconstruction
United States coming of age
Current events
Research project
Geography: U.S. and world
Methods
Class participation
Hands-on democratic participation: mock Congress and organized debates
Group process: reinforcing group work ethics such as doing one's fair share,
active listening
Field trips: yearly trip to Sacramento to visit the state capital and observe
the state legislature in session
Assessment and Evaluation
Quizzes, tests, and cumulative exams
Class participation
Weekly homework
Punctuality and daily preparation
Books and other materials Annals of American History, Encyclopedia Britannica The Americans, by Daniel Boorstin
Novels: Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, by Frederick Douglass;
Hiroshima, by John Hersey
Plays: Inherit the Wind; The Crucible
Films: Glory; Matewan; Gettysbur; Mr. Smith Goes to
Washington
Original source materials from newspapers, documents, and speeches
Additional first- and second-hand sources
References and Resources
Resources for teachers include: California History-Social Science Curriculum Framework, 1998 National Standards for History, 1994. Document published by: National
Center for the History in the Schools
School membership in the National Council for the Social Studies
