Curriculum Overview – 8th Grade History

Grade 8 History: United States History and Geography

Our curriculum corresponds to the Social Science framework for California. In grade 8, the students begin with a review of the major ideas, issues, and events leading to the founding of our nation. The students will then concentrate on significant events in U.S. history, from the framing of the Constitution to the Reconstruction era. We will concentrate heavily on government and the role it plays in our history and society.

Units of study include:
Early exploration and colonization
Colonies and the American Revolution
The Constitution and Government
A Developing United States
The West, The Northeast, and The South
Regional differences and the politics of slavery
The Civil War
Reconstruction Era
Immigration

General goals and objectives:

Develop and apply research skills

Use a variety of resources, including primary sources

Examine cause and effect relationships

Evaluate the past and draw conclusions

Analyze information and present findings using a variety of methods

Recognize similar themes

Examine the credibility of sources

Understand how to prepare for and write properly formatted essay answers

Assessment:

Each unit will conclude with a culminating activity to help assess understanding of topics and themes. This may take the form of a written essay, a mini project, an oral presentation, or a written test.

Grading:

25% Homework

15% Classwork, Quizzes, Unitbooks

10% Geography

50% Tests and Projects

Communication is vital to student success. Please contact me via phone or email at any time if you have any questions or concerns. I am also available in person before and after school (except Tue. afternoons due to our weekly staff meetings).

Thank you,

Donny Kim
dkim@tcps.org
858.576.2120