Text: Prentice Hall America: A History of Our Nation
Students will continue to use skills of historical and geographical analysis as they examine American history since 1865. This course covers the period of history of the United States from the end of the Civil War to present time. Students will continue to learn fundamental concepts in civics, economics, and geography within the context of United States history. Political, economic, and social challenges facing the nation reunited after the Civil War will be examined chronologically as students develop an understanding of how the American Experience shaped the world's political and economic landscape. A variety of learning strategies and hands on activities will be used in the classroom. Students will take notes in different styles as well as annotating important information. We will view video footage, powerpoint, flip charts, and other types of presentations on various topics. Students will stretch their imaginations and develop an interest in learning about the history of our nation.
Eighth graders will complete one major project, a Historical Person Essay and Powerpoint presentation, the fourth grading period of the year. This project will include a well written essay on a person who has contributed to the growth and history of the United States. Students will present their essay in a powerpoint presentation to the class. Throughout our chapters the "Life at the Time" feature encourages students to take on roles of people of the era and express in writing their feelings on various topics and view points.
"The only thing we have to fear is fear itself!" Franklin D. Roosevelt
