Social Studies 8, US History (Part 2), includes New York State, taught
by Mrs. Cashin
Social Studies 8 is a continuation of Social Studies
7. This year’s course will cover the periods of American History from
Reconstruction to the present. Our goals will include enabling each
student to meet the Social Studies Standards as stated by the New York
State Education Department. In addition we will continue the development
of skills such as: essay writing, chart/graph analysis, map reading,
interpreting primary sources, analyzing editorial cartoons and
citizenship education. Development of these skills should ease the
transition to high school social studies courses.
Monthly course content is as follows:
September
Results of the Civil War/Reconstruction
Changes in the American Social Structure:
Immigration
Westward Movement 1876-1890
October
The Maturing of the US as an Industrial Nation
November The Progressive Movement: Efforts at Reform
November
Imperialism: The US Builds an Overseas Empire
December
World War I
January
The Roaring 20s
Midterm Exam
February
The Great Depression
March
World War II
Post World War II 1945-1970
April
US-USSR as superpowers
Cold War, Containment
Changes to postwar world
Postwar American society
May/June
Age of Limits 1970-Present
Citizenship in today’s world
End of year project
Review for final exams
NYS Intermediate Social Studies Assessment
Textbook:
A History of US, supplemental materials will be used
on a regular basis
Supplies:
Throughout the year students also may be asked to
buy construction paper, poster boards or other art supplies for
projects.
Classroom expectations:
It is expected that students will behave in a manner
that encourages learning: respectful, responsive and cooperative.
Parent communication:
5 week notices (progress reports), report cards,
phone calls when needed, Agenda book
Evaluation methods:
Grading is accomplished through a system of total
points earned as compared to what it was possible to earn. This includes
tests, quizzes, homework, projects and class participation.
Homework for the whole week will be placed on
the board on Mondays and remain there all week. Generally there are
about 3 writing and reading assignments per week. Students will be given
time on Mondays to write all assignments in their Agenda books. Please
see the student information sheet in your child’s binder for specific
homework grading policies.
Class participation grades equivalent to a
unit test (50 pts.) will be given each marking period. In addition to
contributing to discussion, participation includes: respectful behavior,
attention to all class activities, being prepared for class, and
completion of homework.
Projects will be assigned periodically
throughout the year. These could include: oral reports and class
presentations, posters, and creative writing. Students will be made
fully aware of how many points each project is worth and what impact it
will have on their quarter grade.
Midterm and Final exams are comprehensive and will include multiple
choice questions and various styles of essay questions.
Absences/missed work:
Please check the homework hotline: If a student is
absent work will be accepted late. Feel free to call about work for
extended absences.
Extra help:
I am generally available for extra help Tuesdays
through Thursdays after school or any day during home base.
To contact teacher:
Call 765-3314, ext. 321
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