United States History - Mrs. Brennan
Welcome to Mrs. Brennan’s eighth grade U.S. History class. This year’s
curriculum will consist of a chronological study of American history from its
beginning through Reconstruction. Throughout the year, students should develop an
enhanced, multi-faceted understanding of how the country in which we live camebe.
Everyday Must Have Materials
3 to 5 subject notebook (designated for history class only)
pencils and pen
glue stick
Eighth Grade U.S. History Essen Questions and Curricular Content 2009-2010
Quarter 1: The Road to Independence
Essential Question: What factors influenced the original thirteen colonies to sever
ties with the British Empire?
Content
13 colonies: Geographical, economical, cultural and political characteristics.
French and Indian War- Outcome and relevance
British economic and political policies- Colonial resistance and action
Declaration of Independence- rationale for revolution and statement of American
principles of government.
Quarter 2: Forging a New Nation
Essential Question: Was the American Revolution truly revolutionary?
Content:
Revolutionary War- Contributions, rationale and resolution
Framework for new government: Articles of Confederation, Constitution, Bill of Rights
Emergence of new government policies and structure: Washington, Hamilton, Jefferson
Quarter 3: Growth of a Nation
Essential Questions: What factors led to the evolution of American democracy?
How did the United States establish its national identity in the first half of the
19th century?
Content:
Era of Jeffersonian policies
War of 1812 – cause and effect
Industrial and transportation revolution- social, political and economic factors.
Era of Jacksonian policies
Sectionalism and Nationalism
Westward Expansion and Manifest Desty
Quarter 4: A Union in Disunion
Essential Question: Did the Civil War and Reconstruction accomplish the goals
established by the Lincoln Administration?
Content:
Slavery and abolition
Events and people leading to the Civil War
Cil War – Cause and effects
Reconstruction- rebuilding and reuniting the nation under specific conditio.
Homework 2009-2010
Color Code
All Classes: Blue
On Grade Level (OGL): Red
GT: Green
Date Assigned Due Date Assignment 9/1/09
9/3/09 1. Notebook - bring to class
2. Parent/Student signature on policy sheet
3. Comic - What is history?
9/9/09 9/14/09 1. GT ONLY: Quote Assignment - Date change-- Not due until 9/14.
2. OGL: Article analysis -- complete document analysis worksheet. Due 9/14
ALL CLASSES: Study for test on Monday. Test based on Historiography Unit.
NO HOMEWORK
Be sure to review your notebook and check for any missing assignments.
NOTE: All assignments not turned in before my maternity leave begins will not be
able to be made up. Please check teacher ease for assignments.
GT: Bring in signed test 9/18/09 9/21/09 ALL CLASSES: Map Quiz --- 13 colonies
Dear parents and/or guardians:
Due to my pending maternity leave and circumstances beyond my control, I am unable
to attend Back-to-School Night. I am sorry for any inconvenience, as I was looking
forward to meeting with you. Please feel free to contact me via e-mail
While I am on maternity leave, Anne Long, a certified Social Studies teacher, will
and I have collaborated and the class expectations, grading policies and standards
will remain the same. We look forward to working with you and your child this year
to ensure optimal learning and success.
Thank you and have an enjoyable evening.
Tara Brennan
Attention parents and students: This website will be updated upon my return on
December 14. I am sorry for any inconvenience. The quarterly assessment will be
given on Nov. 4.
OBJECTIVES:
Week 1: To review classroom expectations and policies.
Week 2: To understand what history is and why it is important to us today.
Week 3: To identify how exploration led to colonization and how is applies to the
development of the United States.
Week 4: To examine colonial economies and the impact in the Americas and European
Countries.