8th Grade Social Studies:
U.S. HistoryI 8th graders! They are so capable, so fun!
(Thanks for sharing them with me this year!)
My Expectations:
Cooperate I believe in my students’ best selves.Participate I also believe mistakes are for learning.Be respectful (& on Task) (In the gradebook this = CPROT -- citizenship)
Ways of Learning
Discussions Simulations Small group activities Partner work Individual work Debates Upfront magazine reading & seminars Research writing
U.S History Overarching Questions for the Whole Year:
To what rights are all humans entitled?
Why can’t we all just get along?
How can/do people successfully resolve their problems?
SIMULATIONS!!!!
• Middle Passage• Colonial Fair • Town Meetings (Should the colonies rebel?)
• Constitutional Convention & making & our own class bills
• JA Field Trip
Active Learning
Indian Relocation Talk Show DebatesWestward Expansion Monopoly Game Underground Railroad (maybe . . .)Individual ProjectsMini Dramas
Research Paper
On a controversial constitutional issue of the students’ choice
ResearchDebates (team, partner or solo)Paper writing (includes proper) MLA citation
Homework & Grading
• Daily homework is NOT GRADED.• Students maintain a Homework Log • Work scoring below a 67% can (and should) be re-taken
within a week for the average of the two scores. • Cheating or plagiarism is a violation of our
mutual trust, demonstrates a lack of integrity, and can also result in a zero in the grade book.
• Graded assignments (with an MAF) can be completed over the week end with no penalty.
Homework & Grading , continued
• Late graded work = 50% if in before the end of the unit.
• No extra credit.
• Extenuating circumstances, should be communicated to Ms. Kiemle before the due date so that together we can devise a plan for success.
PORTFOLIO
Stored in the classroom
Goals
Evidence of student work and growth
Reflection
Used at mid-year Student Led Conferences
Service Learning
How can 8th graders use their interests and talents to help our community?
