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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:

  • a large three ring binder to serve as notebook,

  • pens,

  • #2 pencils,

  •  index cards.

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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