8th Grade Social Studies Syllabus
Mrs. Kasey Bardin
Meece Middle School
606-678-5821
Mission & Goals
Our primary goal in Social Studies is to assist the student to become a productive and responsible citizen. The Social Studies Program uses the five big strands of social studies (government/civics, cultures and societies, economics, geography and historical perspective) to focus on an integrated approach to the study of United States history. This class places emphasis on the significant events, critical movements, and people of various backgrounds who contributed to the building of our nation. Students study the historical roots of our democratic principles through an examination of the ideas, ideals, and critical events associated with the founding of our nation. Study of the Declaration of Independence, the Articles of Confederation, and the United States Constitution and its Amendments provides a foundation for understanding the purposes of our government, its organization and functions, and the role of the citizen. Using chronological thinking and historical analysis, students examine the political, social, and economic dimensions of early United States history and make links between the past and the present. In addition, students examine the history of Kentucky as a part of the larger national narrative.
Students are assessed on the KPREP at the 8th grade level in Social Studies.
Sequence & Study (subject to change)
1st 9 weeks- Early Americans/Culture, Exploration & Great Convergence, Colonization
2nd 9 weeks-Road to Revolution, American Revolution, Establishing a New Nation, Constitution
3rd 9 weeks- Early Republic, Expansion & Industrialization, Social Reform
4th 9 weeks- Civil War and Reconstruction, Economics
Textbook- Glencoe’s The American Republic to 1877
Students are highly advised to read at least one subsection of the current chapter a night as a tool for success. The textbooks are the property of Somerset Independent Schools. Students and their parents are held accountable for all lost or damaged books. The school system must be reimbursed for lost or damaged books.
Student Requirements
Students should bring their textbook, agenda, Social Studies binder, writing utensil, and paper to class each day.
Agendas
Students will find the agenda for the day posted on my whiteboard. They should copy the items into their agenda book daily.
Social Studies Binder
Each student is required to have 1 3-prong binder for Social Studies with 5 dividers. Everything will stay in the notebook. I will grade the binder periodically. Notebooks will not be accepted unless they are in a binder.
Classwork
Students will be responsible for various assignments each day. Students should review their notes at least 10 minutes each night.
Homework
Homework is required. Students should review notes for at least 10 minutes each night. Homework is an important part of the curriculum as it provides extra time for independent thought regarding the content from that day’s class. Written homework assignments are always due the next school day. Please note that there are several opportunities for students to begin and/or complete the assignment (ex. During bus loading, extra class time, etc.).
From time to time family emergencies will arise. Students MUST bring a note to class regarding the missed homework assignment the day the assignment is due or upon the student returning to school. There are no exceptions for long-term assignments.
Study Guides
Students will receive a study guide at the beginning of a new unit of study. The study guide will be kept in the student’s notebook during the course of the unit. The guide includes the essential questions, the page numbers in the textbook where the information can be found, project information, vocabulary words, key questions for each lesson, and information regarding extra credit.
Extra Credit
Students can earn extra credit at the beginning of each unit by following directions that are printed on each study guide. During the unit students will define every vocabulary word and answer each key question on notebook paper. Based on how complete their assignment is, students can receive up to 5 points added to their test grade.
Classroom Rules
My rules are as follows:
1. Be Responsible
2. Listen to Others
3. Be Respectful
4. Work as a Team
5. Do Your Best
I am looking forward to a great school year! Please feel free to call or email with any questions or concerns.
Kasey Bardin
Cell (270)566-0208
I have read and understand the 8th Grade Social Studies Syllabus.
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