8th Grade Social Studies:
United States History
Park View Middle School
Mr. Cochran
Course Description
This course explores the history of the United States from the earliest Americans through the Civil War. Throughout our exploration
we will pay close attention to not only historical facts but also various cultures and significant geographical information. We will also
become aware of various historical perspectives and continuing issues that have shaped the United States into the country it is today.
As the teacher, I will place major emphasis on developing student language and study skills that are necessary for success throughout
a student’s academic career. A heavy emphasis will be placed on organization and writing. Furthermore, we will concentrate on
improving other skill areas such as research, oral communication, map skills, and critical historical thinking.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Course Schedule
In 8th grade U.S. History we examine the following themes:
TRIMESTER 1 (September 1st – November 24th)
1.
Native American cultures of North and South America
2.
The explorer’s role in the development of the United States
3.
The growth of the 13 colonies
TRIMESTER 2 (December 1st – March 7th)
1.
The lead up to the split with Great Britain and the American Revolution
2.
The growth of American Government
3.
The early years of the United States, the impact of the Industrial Revolution, and Sectionalism
TRIMESTER 3 (March 8th – June 8th)
1.
The Westward Expansion of the United States
2.
The causes and significance of the Civil War in the United States
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Throughout the School Year
Living Through History, James L. Hollister, 1989
Throughout the year students will take part in a “process” learning program called Living Through History. This program encourages
and requires all students to get involved as active participants in the unfolding events related to the development of their nation.
Students are cast into roles the first week of the school year and then proceed to follow their “family” through the story of American
history. This program will operate along with the “real history” lessons throughout the year.
Current Events
Each week we will analyze current events and students will engage in discussion and/or presentations of various topics about
international, national, and local events and how they apply to our lives in the United States.
Map Quizzes
Throughout the course we will identify basic geographical areas such as the United States, Canada, South America, Africa, Europe,
Central America, Asia, Oceans and Continents, Cities of the United States and of the World.
Late Assignments
Students are expected to complete and turn in homework on time. This includes in-class work, online work, and homework
assignments. The following late work policy is applicable to all students except those receiving extra help from me after school or
from another teacher in the building.
 All homework is expected to be completed on time.
 Students should turn in all work, late or not, to avoid zeros in the grade book.
 Assignments not completed on time will lose 50% of the total value.
 Assignments can be turned in late (-50% credit) until the end of the unit. After the unit test, the missing assignment will
receive a zero.
 To aid students, each student will receive a “Free Late Coupon” each trimester. This coupon can be used to turn in a late
assignment (without penalty) BEFORE the end of the unit.
 For extra help, I am available before or after school; please let me know a day or two in advance.
Grading
Your grade will be based on total points from homework, projects, quizzes, and tests.
Letter Grade
Minimum Percentage (%)
A+
=
98.5
A
=
94.5
A=
92.5
B+
=
90.5
B
=
86.5
B=
84.5
C+
=
82.5
C
=
77.5
C=
75.5
D+
=
73.5
D
=
71.5
D=
69.5
F
=
0.00
Materials for Class
1.
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Your Textbook: American History: Beginnings to 1914, McDougal-Littell
Bring textbook to class everyday Monday through Thursday. You may not need textbooks on some Fridays.
Textbook is available online: http://www.classzone.com/cz/login.htm - Username: Lincoln1863, Password: civilwar
Book Cover
Assignment notebook
Writing Utensil
Notebook(s) (You might need a second notebook by the end of the year).
Folder
Flash Drive (optional)
Highlighter
Colored Pencils (when needed)
All assignments for the unit
Behavioral Expectations
1.

Be in your seat, quiet, and with the necessary materials for that day when the bell rings.
TARDY POLICY:
-The first tardy is a warning
-The second tardy is a teacher detention
-The third and subsequent tardy will result in an office referral and a call home.
2. Practice self-control by raising your hand and wait to be called on by the teacher before speaking.
3. Listen carefully and follow directions the first time they are given.
4. Respect everyone and their property.
5. Stay in your seats unless given permission by the teacher to move.
Any violations of classroom rules will be dealt with according to the discipline ladder found in your student handbook.
Electronic Device Policy

The use of electronic devices will be used frequently throughout the school year in Social Studies. On days we do not use
devices in the classroom and you choose to bring your device to class, please place it in front of you on the table top in clear
view. This applies to devices the size of your palm and smaller. (i.e. cell phones, ipods, etc.)
Danny Cochran
House 8B, Room 27
Social Studies Teacher
cochrda@masd.k12.wi.us
(262) 363-6292 ext: 27027
We are not makers of history. We are made by history.
- Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Student Signature _______________________________________
Parent Guardian Signature _______________________________________