So, what's this class all about?

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     Course Overview: 
     
       The Social Studies curriculum in 8th Grade focuses on Civics and Economics. These are essential academic disciplines that students need to develop a working knowledge of in order to become informed, empathetic, productive, passionate, and positive contributors to a complex, and perpetually changing world.  Although a textbook* will be an important guide and resource throughout the year, I intend to supplement it heavily with a wide variety of interactive activities and assignments including class discussions and debates,  group and individual projects, cross team, and cross curricular collaborations, a variety of reading and writing assignments, analysis of primary sources, and frequent probing and evaluation into how current global, and domestic affairs relate to the wide range of topics covered in this course. Students will also continue building their research and writing skills by practicing MLA style formatted research writing and citation guidelines. 
     
    *Textbooks will be available for in-room use and take home if needed.
     
    Course Description: 
     
    The Civics part of the course will emphasize a study of government, and individual rights and responsibilities. Students will explore the structure of the federal government, as outlined in the U.S. Constitution, and the organization of state and local governments. Students will also develop the skills to make informed decisions, resolve conflicts peacefully, articulate and defend positions, and engage in the civic and political life of their communities.

    The Economics part of the course will enable students to demonstrate an understanding of basic economic concepts. Students will become familiar with the economic system of the United States and how it operates. They will also explore the roles of various components of the American economic system. Students will examine their roles as a consumer, an employee, an investor and a voting citizen. 
     

    Units of Study this year (order may vary):

    Unit 1: Citizenship and Immigration

    Unit 2: Political Philosophy and Principles of the Constitution

    Unit 3: Legislative Branch

    Unit 4: Executive Branch

    Unit 5: Judicial Branch

    Unit 6: Bill of Rights

    Unit 7: Law and Criminal Justice

    Unit 8: Juvenile Justice

    Unit 9: Political Parties

    Unit 10: Voting and Elections

    Unit 11: State Government

    Unit 12: Local Government

    Unit 13: Economics (focus on personal budget) 

     
     
    Class Rules and Expectations:

    1. Please come to class prepared. You will need to bring the following to class:
    • Social Studies Folder (a place to keep handouts, charts, study guides, etc.) and notebook
    • Chrome Book
    • Homework (if assigned)
    • writing utensil 
    *Please be on time to class each day.

    2. Absences/ Late Work: If you are absent, or late with an assignment, it is your responsibility to see me or let me know about the work you missed or have not turned in. Your initiative, diligence, and genuine care and concern to be accountable for the work in this class will determine the amount of extended time and credit you will receive on work that you miss, or are delinquent with.

    3. Grades:
    Grades are based on a point basis. Your total number of points will be converted to a percent out of the total points possible. Grades are based on the following: 
     
    • Tests: Yes, there will be some tests. Tests may include multiple choice questions, matching, fill in the blank, true/false, short answer and short essay. Usually worth 25 points or more
    • Homework: Homework will be assigned randomly throughout the year. You will not have homework every night, but it will be assigned somewhat frequently given that we don't meet every day. Homework assignments are generally 5 to 15 points each.
    • Projects and class activities: Both projects and activities (individual and group) will occur throughout the year. At least one project or activity will occur for each chapter. A daily agenda and homework assignments will be written on the board at all times and will also be available on the team assignment page.
    • Extra Credit: Extra credit will be offered randomly throughout the year. Scores for extra credit may vary depending on the assignment.
     
    Remember, always ask questions. I'm here to help. I work for you!
     
     
     
Last Modified on July 31, 2019