Spur Social Studies 8

The Middle School U.S. History course presents a cohesive and comprehensive overview of the history of the United States. This year-long course surveys the major events and turning points of US history as it moves from the era of exploration through modern times. As students examine each era of history, they will analyze primary sources and carefully research events to gain a clearer understanding of the factors that have shaped US history. In early units, students will explore the geography of the nation and world, as well as assess the foundations of US democracy while examining crucial documents. In later units, students will examine the effects of territorial expansion, the Civil War, and the rise of industrialization as they assess the outcomes of economic trends and the connections between culture and government. As the course draws to a close, students will focus their studies on the causes of cultural and political change in the modern age. Throughout the course, students will learn the importance of cultural diversity while examining history from different perspectives. Rigorous reading and writing activities carefully address Common Core literacy standards and guide students toward the development of critical thinking and communication skills.