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    Syllabus for 8th-grade history class covering these events over the course of a semester (approximately 18 weeks):

     

    American History: From the French and Indian War to the Civil War

     

    Grade: 8th Grade

    Semester Duration: Approximately 18 weeks

    Course Description:

    This course will provide students with an in-depth exploration of American history from the French and Indian War through the Civil War. Through a combination of lectures, discussions, readings, and projects, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the key events and figures that shaped the United States during this critical period. I employ a diverse range of instructional methods within my teaching approach, encompassing lectures, note-taking, multimedia presentations, anecdotal narratives, research assignments, introductory and concluding tasks, assessments in the form of quizzes and tests, as well as reflective exercises. It is imperative to note that all assessments, including quizzes and tests, are conducted under an "open notes" policy, underscoring the significance of maintaining comprehensive and organized note-taking practices for each student.

     

    Course Objectives:

    By the end of this semester, students should be able to:

    Explain early colonization of the New World and the 13 original colonies.

    Explain the causes and significance of the French and Indian War.

    Analyze the impact of the Proclamation of 1763 on colonial relations with Britain.

    Understand the origins of the Stamp Act and the colonial response of "No taxation without representation."

    Describe the events leading to the Boston Massacre and Boston Tea Party.

    Evaluate the significance of the Battles of Lexington and Concord in the American Revolution.

    Examine the drafting and signing of the Declaration of Independence.

    Discuss the importance of the Saratoga campaign and the Treaty of Paris in ending the American Revolution.

    Understand the key decisions and compromises made during the Constitutional Convention.

    Analyze the process and significance of the ratification of the U.S. Constitution, including the Bill of Rights.

    Explore the impact of the Louisiana Purchase on the United States.

    Investigate the causes and outcomes of the War of 1812.

    Understand the principles and implications of the Monroe Doctrine.

    Analyze the Missouri Compromise's role in maintaining a balance between slave and free states.

    Discuss the Indian Removal Act and the Trail of Tears.

    Examine the causes and results of the Mexican American War.

    Explore the Seneca Falls Convention and the early women's rights movement.

    Analyze the Compromise of 1850 and its impact on slavery in newly acquired territories.

    Understand the Fugitive Slave Act of 1850 and its role in increasing tensions over slavery.

    Evaluate the Dred Scott v. Sandford decision and its implications for enslaved individuals.

    Discuss John Brown's Raid on Harpers Ferry and its impact on the abolitionist movement.

    Examine the Election of Abraham Lincoln and its role in Southern secession and the start of the Civil War.

     

    Grading:

    Homework, Daily work, and Quizzes

    Research Projects

    Final Exam