Melvin B. Benson IV, Teacher
NewtownMiddle School
NewtownPA 18940
215-944-2600
Course Description –Benson’s 8th Grade Social Studies
The content of the course is primarily a discussion and study of the early history of the United States of America. As 7th grade left off at European exploration, this class picks up with a brief overview of the early British settlements in North America beginning in 1607 and endingwith the Civil War in 1865. An important discussion this year will be about the political philosophy of the 18th and 19th centuries that led to the formation and early growth of our then unique system of government.Classroom activities will be prepared for and supplemented by homework from the text and other reading materials.
Alongside the study of history will be an ongoing discussion of Current Events requiring both preparation at home and classroom presentations.
2. Grading and Grades
All graded work will fit into one of the categories listed below. Each assignment will be given a raw score. Grades are approximately weighted as follows:
Quests:35% (quizzes + tests = QUESTS)
Projects:35% (often involves work outside of class)
Homework:20% (mostly Quia and Current Events)
Classroom Participation:10% (considered as ‘being on task’)
The final grade will be an average of the four marking periods.
In the past, students who do all the homework completely and on time (including current events) achieve the highest grades. This is because the homework helps prepare them for Quests. Also, consistent attention to assignments is a sign of a responsible student and learner – that is ultimately reflected in the grade earned.
Projects, whether written or otherwise, must be the student's own work. Proper use and citation of sources will be emphasized.
Occasionally, an in-class quest will be open-note. Photocopies of other students’ notes or the textbook are not acceptable. The entire notebook, except for handouts and other teacher-provided supplements, must be in the student’s handwriting.
3. Textbook & required reading
United States History Beginnings to 1877; Holt, Rinehart and Winston; 2007
Sections of this textbook will be assigned for homework reading. Quia homework assignments are usually drawn directly from these readings. In-class quests will also reference these readings and Quia homework assignments.
There will also be references to and readings from many primary texts. These may include but are not limited to:John Locke’s Second Treatise on Government, the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, the Federalist Papers, Washington’s Farewell Address, Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address, etc.
Historical non-fiction and fiction readings appropriate to the topic will be assigned. SpecificallyShaara's Rise to Rebellionwill be assigned to the gifted classes
Current Events must be drawn from a reputable newspaper, newsmagazine, or internet source.Watching a national network newscast such as CNN or FOX is recommended.
4. Classroom Guidelines
Please refer to “Benson’s Classroom Rules and Procedures.” In general, “Respect” is the key word to be applied. All school rules and policies must be followed, discussions should be polite and respectful, no horseplay, be on time, prepared, and complete homework at home.
5. After School Clinic or Consultations
I am available for help or review after school on Thursdays from 3:05 to 3:45. Coaching assignments do affect after-school availability.If a student needs assistance, it is always best to make appointments.
6. Parental Contact or Conferencing with the Teacher
Parents may contact me by email at r by calling the school office (I prefer email). During the school day, I can best return calls before 8:00 a.m. and directly after 3:00 p.m. Other arrangements can be made if those times are not convenient. Conferences or classroom observations are welcome and may be scheduled as requested.