1. Mr. Crossman 8th Grade Social Studies
Rm. A104

2. “The mind is not a vessel to be filled, but a fire to be kindled.”
Teaching Philosophy
Every student can learn and grow
Teachers are facilitators of learning
Students can learn from themselves and peers
Critical thinking/problem solving skills prepare students for life
Writing is an essential tool for communication and processing
Understanding current events is part of being a global citizen
“The mind is not a vessel to be filled, but a fire to be kindled.”
-Plutarch

3. Curriculum: THEMATIC HISTORY
What?
A Topical Study of History
Why?
Allows students to make direct connections
Easily see cause and effect.
Weave in Modern Day Connections
We will look at:
Big Business, Immigration, Imperialism, Reforms, Global Conflicts, Quest for Equality, Different Politics, Modern Topics

4. 21ST CENTURY SKILLS
Communication – Develop effective listening skills and creating a nurturing environment
Collaboration – The ability to work with a team and flexibility when working in groups
Creativity – Exploring outside the box and innovated ideas
Critical Thinking Skills – Reasoning, Problem Solving, and Systematic Thinking

5. Lesson Planning Strategy: scaffolding and Application
Activate Prior Knowledge
Provide new Information
Students practice learned skills
Connect the information to student lives
Checks for assessing student learning

6. Preparation for High School
Gather knowledge of Different Perspectives throughout History
Develop writing skills
Acquire note taking skills
Develop thinking and analytical skills
Participation in Higher Order Discussions
Refine study skills for large scale exams
Implement decision making & problem solving skills.

7. Any Questions