Social Studies — Grade 8

N.C.- The Rip Van Winkle State

This lesson introduces students to Washington Irving's short story "Rip Van Winkle" and correlates it with the history of North Carolina. In the 1800s North Carolina was nicknamed "The Rip Van Winkle State."

Format: lesson plan (grade 8 English Language Arts and Social Studies)

By Kay D. Lopossay.

Exploring the 1835 NC Constitutional Convention

This Internet Scavenger Hunt allows students to read the actual proceedings of the 1835 Constitutional Convention while they discover for themselves some of the significant amendments that were made. The activity also sets the foundation for class discussions about why the state Constitution was amended in 1835 and what impact the amendments had on religious groups, free blacks, and American Indians.

Format: lesson plan (grade 8 Social Studies)

By Barbara Jean.

Resources on the web

Population growth and movement in 19th century North Carolina

In this eighth grade social studies lesson, students compare historical maps of North Carolina from 1823 and 1892 and propose reasons for the population change evidenced by the maps. (Learn more)

Format: lesson plan (grade 8 Social Studies)

Provided by: UNC Libraries