Course Description
United States History is a course offered to eighth graders at Cortez Middle School that explores the great beginnings of our country. We will start our journey through America’s past as students learn about the first Americans and the Europeans who came to inhabit this land. The class will study how colonists became Americans and the historic circumstance that created a new independent nation. As we progress, attention will turn towards expansion of the United States during the 19th century while keeping a close eye on the deeply rooted conflict of slavery. We will examine the Civil War and conclude as the Nation rebuilds itself.
Throughout this study of early America, the focus will be on the big ideas that make our Nation’s history unique. Students will be asked to think critically about the challenges and beliefs that helped shape the United States. Together, we will tackle difficult issues such as the ongoing struggles faced by Native Americans, the horrible institution of slavery and devastating warfare. While doing so, we will also celebrate as we study the fascinating individuals and ideas that emerged from this era and helped to build our great country.
Students can expect to read and write daily in United States History. They are essential life skills that every student must possess and practice. Students will be required to maintain an 3-ring binder for the entirety of this course.
We will use diverse resources to help us understand the content of the class. The main texts for this class are A History of US by Joy Hakim and The American Nation published by Prentice-Hall. Students will also use internet resources during their study, read varied print sources, listen to audio and music and view a number of video clips and documentaries.
Students will be assessed and graded in a variety of ways throughout the school year. Grades will be posted every Wednesday before class and are always available through conference or Powerschool. Most assignments will be completed in each student’s binder and will include constructed responses, notes and other writing activities. Additional assignments will include mapping exercises, presentations and projects.
Throughout this study of early America, the focus will be on the big ideas that make our Nation’s history unique. Students will be asked to think critically about the challenges and beliefs that helped shape the United States. Together, we will tackle difficult issues such as the ongoing struggles faced by Native Americans, the horrible institution of slavery and devastating warfare. While doing so, we will also celebrate as we study the fascinating individuals and ideas that emerged from this era and helped to build our great country.
Students can expect to read and write daily in United States History. They are essential life skills that every student must possess and practice. Students will be required to maintain an 3-ring binder for the entirety of this course.
We will use diverse resources to help us understand the content of the class. The main texts for this class are A History of US by Joy Hakim and The American Nation published by Prentice-Hall. Students will also use internet resources during their study, read varied print sources, listen to audio and music and view a number of video clips and documentaries.
Students will be assessed and graded in a variety of ways throughout the school year. Grades will be posted every Wednesday before class and are always available through conference or Powerschool. Most assignments will be completed in each student’s binder and will include constructed responses, notes and other writing activities. Additional assignments will include mapping exercises, presentations and projects.