Dover Sherborn Middle School Curriculum Road Maps

Course Title: U.S. History Grade: 8

Unit: The New Republic

Month Presented: January Unit Length (in weeks): 4

Essential Question (s):

· What is/was “American?”

· What internal and external factors challenge “American” identity and development

· How was the Constitution used and changed to adjust to these challenges?

Learning Objectives:

1. Identify and analyze historical “American” symbols used in flags, art, and official seal.

2. Explain how American leaders and government addressed the internal and external challenges to the government.

3. Compare and contrast the role of the United States in international affairs, “then and now.”

4. Explain the causes and effects of the War of 1812.

Skills:

• Primary Source Analysis
• Compare and Contrast: Then and Now
• Secondary Source Analysis
• Research and plan group campaign presentation
• 5 paragraph essay focused on providing specific historical evidence

Instructional Strategies & Activities

· Seal of the United States Activity: Research and interpret words and symbols

· George Washington: The Precedent President Internet Web Quest

· Political Parties: Then and Now

· The Ideal American: Political parties primary sources

· Challenges to the Government = jigsaw study of problems faced by New Republic and the development of the National Bank, judicial review and cabinet

· Foreign Policy Case Studies: 1789-1812

· Foreign Policy Then and Now

· Causes of War of 1812

· Connections to the present: State of the Union Address

· Primary Sources:

Washington’s Farewell Address

Letter from Dolley Madison

Segments of the Monroe Doctrine

Tecumseh Speech

Materials Utilized:

Assessment Strategies:

• Political Parties Quiz
• Campaign of 1800 simulation
• New Republic Unit test including 5 paragraph essay with focus on evidence