8th
Jenine Bryan, MHR, MAT
GRADE GEORGIA STUDIES SYLLABUS
HUBERT MIDDLE SCHOOL
jenine.bryan@sccpss.com
912-395-5235
Welcome to the start of a new school year! To supplement instruction, students will use online
resources as well as resources provided by the teacher. We are excited about the curriculum and its
potential for helping students develop strong social studies knowledge and skills. We are looking
forward to a successful year for all of our students.
COURSE SUMMARY:
In 8th grade, this course focuses on Georgia geography, history, government, and economics. While the four
strands are interwoven, ample opportunity is also provided for in-depth study of the geography of Georgia and
the government of Georgia. U.S. historical events are included, as appropriate, to ensure students understand
Georgia’s role in the history of the United States. The format of this course promotes student engagement
through exploration of historical concepts and making natural connections between units of study and how
different concepts integrate into the global community. These connections will personalize student learning and
promote habits of the mind that support each learner’s profile.
Common Core Georgia Performance Standards (CCGPS)
Georgia joined with 46 other states, The District of Columbia (D.C.), and territories to develop a set of core
standards for kindergarten through high school in English language arts and mathematics and in grades 6-12 in
literacy in science, history/social studies, and technical subjects. The Common Core Georgia Performance
Standards (CCGPS) provide a consistent framework to prepare students for success in college and/or the 21st
century workplace. These standards represent a common sense next step from the Georgia Performance
Standards (GPS).
Our study of the CCGPS will be:
 Holistic - Students will be required to use humanities in many aspects of their lives to help
become well rounded individuals in society. Their knowledge and understanding of these
concepts will be required for personal decision making, and participation in civic and cultural
affairs.
 Intercultural – Social Studies promotes an understanding of how cultural, societal and
historical influences from a variety of cultures have influenced the progression of
civilizations, and brought about its evolution. Students should be able to understand and
discuss the ideals of a society as well as the social, political, and economic decisions of that
society.
 Focused on communication – Social Studies places considerable emphasis on literacy and
requires students to use the language through a variety of media and technologies. The
student will understand that technological innovations have consequences, both intended and
unintended, for a society.
Ms. Bryan - 8th Grade Georgia Studies Syllabus
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AREAS OF INTERACTION:
During the course, we will use the areas of interaction to build connections between students’ knowledge and
experience related to the real world. For example, students will develop approaches to learning that help them
become problem solvers and critical thinkers. Students will seek ways to determine how humanities support
community and service endeavors by participating in civic projects throughout the school year.
METHODOLOGY:
In class, the student body will work together to develop a variety of opportunities for learning focusing on the
approaches to learning, especially critical thinking and reflection. Individual and collaborative active learning
are at the heart of the classroom instruction. Real world connections and opportunities to investigate and solve
problems will help students become world citizens who understand contemporary issues with a depth and
wisdom drawn from experience and future trends.
TEXTS AND RESOURCES:
The Georgia Studies Book: Our State and the Nation
CLASSROOM MATERIALS:
In order to be prepared DAILY, each student should have:
 One (1) composition book
 3-ring binder (1 in) (Used for the Interactive Notebook)
 Dividers
 Colored pencils, markers or crayons (choose one of the three)
 Pencils/Pens
 Glue stick
 Paper (College Rule): An ample supply of loose-leaf notebook paper
 Jump drive: to save assignments completed on the computer
Composition Books and Binders will be collected periodically at unannounced times. Students will be given a
project grade for keeping both their composition books and binders organized.
Please review the above information with your child. By signing below, he/she is making a commitment to keep
their composition book and binder organized. Students should have their binder organized and ready to use by
Monday, September 3.
METHODS OF ASSESSMENT:
A balance of formative and summative assessments will be used to assess student learning. Rubrics and
checklists will provide students with assignment expectations.
GRADING:
Assessment will be based on the following:
 Knowledge
 Concepts
 Skills
 Organization and presentation
GRADING SCALES
A 90 – 100%
B 80 – 89%
C 70 – 79%
F 69% and below
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Grades will be calculated for each of the following components to determine a numerical grade:
1. Class assignments, homework assignments, group participation, make-up work, and extra credit work will
constitute 40% of the grade.
2. Student assessment activities including oral tests, teacher-made tests, nine-weeks tests, term papers, and
research will constitute 60% of the grade.
Progress Reports: Besides mid-quarter progress reports, students will be given bi-weekly progress reports that
must be signed by parent or guardian.
Additional Information


Homework is assigned DAILY, Monday through Thursday. It is due the following day.
Mrs. Bryan is available for tutorial on Thursdays from 3:00-4:00 for extra help. A signed
tutorial slip must be turned in prior to students staying for tutorial. Students will NOT be
allowed to call home for permission or to stay without the tutorial slip.
MAKE-UP WORK POLICY
Regardless of reason for absences, it is your student’s responsibility to make up missed work, and to make
arrangements with the teacher to complete missed assignments. If a student wishes to turn in a late assignment
for any reason other than being absent, a late penalty will apply. Students should visit the “Make-up Work
Station” to obtain any handouts, etc. Make-up work should be turned in with a completed “Late Work” form
attached. Major tests and quizzes must be made up within one week of returning to school.
CONDUCT
The agenda must be with students at all times and will serve as their hall pass. In addition, students are
expected to abide by ALL classroom procedures and expectations.
PARENT TIPS
Students will record assignments and homework in their agenda. Please feel free to email anytime. If you
do not receive a response within 48 hours, your email may have been blocked. Therefore, please send a
note in your student’s agenda. While at home, parents are encouraged to:
 Set a regular time and routine for doing homework.
 Establish a regular place which is well lit and quiet for completing homework.
 Remove distractions during home study time. No television, phone calls, or text messaging.
 Insist that homework assignments are completed daily
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Procedures and Expectations
1. Students are expected to attend school daily and on time. If an absence is necessary, students
must return with a written excuse.
2. Students will enter the classroom on time and prepared with an agenda, supplies and completed
homework assignments.
3. Students will promptly begin the Bell Ringer of the Day.
4. Students will allow the instructor to teach and allow classmates to learn.
5. Students are expected to ask for help when appropriate, sign up and stay for tutorial as needed,
and put forth every effort to learn.
6. Follow the Savannah-Chatham County Code of Conduct.
Students and parents please sign and return. It will be kept in the front of the Social Studies
section of the binder for reference.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------I have read and understand the 8th Grade Social Studies Syllabus.
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Student Name (print)
Parent/Guardian Name (print)
Student (Signature)
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Parent/Guardian (Signature)
_____________________________________
Parent/Guardian Contact Number(s)
______________________________
Email Address
____________________________________
Date
______________________________
Ms. Bryan - 8th Grade Georgia Studies Syllabus
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