COURSE OUTLINE

In 8^th grade Social Studies, students will be studying Ancient World History and Geography in an integrated curriculum.   We will cover this material in many different ways.  This will include, but is not limited to: group activities, readings from the book, videos, lectures, simulations, map activities, etc.

Quarter 1: The Rise of Civilization Topics covered: Introduction to Geography and History, Beginnings of Civilization, Mesopotamia, and Egypt.

Quarter 2: Flowering of Civilization Topics covered: The Rise of Ancient Greece, The Height of Greek Civilization, Ancient Rome, and Africa. Toga Day is one of the highlights of this unit.

Quarter 3: Religions of the World Topics covered: Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism, Daoism, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.  Guest speakers help to make this unit both educational and exciting.

Quarter 4: Regional Civilizations Topics covered: The Americas, The Rise of Medieval Europe and Medieval Europe at its Height.   A Medieval Banquet with music, plays, and guest royalty wraps up this unit. 

TESTS : There will be tests given as we move through the units.  Study guides will be handed out at least one week in advance to help students prepare for these tests.   

PROJECTS:  At least one project will be assigned each quarter. Students will receive more details as the time approaches in the quarter.