8th Grade Social Studies Course

How do historical events shape citizens' rights and responsibilities and inspire individuals to create social change?

Arizona Social Studies Standards - 8th Grade (PDF)

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We will explore the basics of how American government works and why being involved in our democracy is important. We will study key historical events like the Revolutionary War and the Civil War, which helped define our rights as citizens. We will also look at important documents, like the Constitution and the Bill of Rights, that explain our rights and duties. We will learn about the different branches of government and how they work together to protect our freedoms. Together, we will see that our voices are important and that taking part in civic life is crucial for creating a better future for everyone. 

We next look at the important struggles for justice and dignity throughout American history. We will learn about various civil rights movements and the courageous individuals who fought for equality and fairness. We will examine key laws and landmark Supreme Court cases that have expanded our rights as citizens. Additionally, we will delve into the serious topics of human rights abuses and genocides, such as the Cambodian and Rwandan Genocides. We will discuss the impact of these tragedies on individuals and communities, as well as the lessons we can learn to prevent such events from happening in the future. 

We will explore important contemporary global issues that affect our world today. We will learn about environmental challenges, such as climate change and pollution, and discuss how human actions contribute to these problems. We will investigate the impact of these issues on ecosystems and communities and discover ways to promote sustainability. We will also examine the causes and effects of terrorism, both domestic and international, to understand how it influences our safety and rights. By studying terrorism, we can better understand the delicate balance between individual freedom and public security. 

We will finish by looking at the concept of the American Dream. We will learn how migration has shaped the identity and values of our nation by exploring the stories of different immigrant groups and their contributions to American society. We will also discuss the challenges and opportunities that come with immigration. Finally, we will dive into the basics of economics, focusing on how our financial decisions impact our lives and our communities. We will learn about budgeting, saving, and making smart choices for our futures, which will help us take control of our financial well-being and advocate for ourselves.