Eighth-Grade Social Studies Learning Objectives

Eighth-grade social studies is a survey early world history course designed to give students the opportunity to explore recurring themes common to civilizations from around the globe and across time. Eighth-graders will examine civilizations include the Greek, Roman, Egyptian, Indian, and Chinese cultures, as well as other African, American, Asian, and European civilizations.  It is the first year of a three year sequence of integrated world and US history.

Enduring Understandings:

1. Geography plays a key role in the development, destiny, and interaction of civilizations.

2. Polytheistic and monotheistic religions have influenced the worldview and actions of civilizations.

3. Human societies have developed tools, skills, and knowledge in order to address basic needs.

4. Human societies have developed various forms of government to maintain social order.

Essential Questions:

1. How did geography influence the development of ancient civilizations?

2. What was the role of religion in ancient civilizations?

3. How have various human societies developed tools, skills, knowledge and government to address their basic needs and maintain social order?

Essential Skills:

1. Research using a variety of sources

2. Apply concepts taught in class to modern society

3. Use maps to interpret historical information

4. Develop an awareness of how past and present events impact the future

Units:

1. Ancient Civilizations
   Ancient Civilizations introduces students to the tools and resources historians use to investigate and analyze the past. Students also study the characteristics common to the distinct societies and civilizations developed by early peoples.

2. Rise of Kingdoms and Classical Civilizations
   Students focus on the societies and empires early civilizations established and how those societies and empires influenced neighboring peoples and future generations.

3. Forces of Change
   Students will study the early history and development of major world religions including Hinduism, Judaism, Buddhism, Christianity, and Islam.

4. Regional Civilizations
   Students will study the rise and spread of civilizations in Europe, Asia, and Africa between the years 500 and 1500.

5. Early Modern Times and Diffusion of Cultures
   Students will investigate the major themes of the European Renaissance and the Islamic world.