Social Studies — Grade 8

Differences Across the Curriculum: Part 1

This set of lessons can be used with "Differences Across the Curriculum: Parts 2, 3, and 4" as an integrated approach to exploring diversity with eighth graders. The unit will revolve around the use of the drama version of "The Diary of Anne Frank." Students will learn how diversity creates bias which leads to conflict, where students confront their bias and practice tolerance. These parts reflect the four core curricula in an interwoven approach to teaching students to confront their biases, learn tolerance, and infer the impact of these on today's society. This activity, Part 1, is meant to serve as a pre-reading activity to the reading of the play form of "The Diary of Anne Frank." See attachment created on Inspiration software to gain insight to the organization of the entire unit.

Format: lesson plan (grade 8 English Language Arts, Social Studies, and Computer Technology Skills)

By Lynn Carter.

Holocaust WebQuest

In this webquest students assume the role of Ambassadors of Peace in the year 2041 (the centennial anniversary of the beginning of WWII). It is their job to help the people remember not only the historical events of the Holocaust, but also the basic moral issues of hatred and prejudice. This webquest will allow students of all levels of ability to produce a product on the topic of prejudice and hate.

Format: lesson plan (grade 8 Social Studies and Computer Technology Skills)

By Beverly Almond.

Stories From the Holocaust

This lesson is designed to supplement a study of World War II. Students will read first hand accounts of individuals who escaped Nazi persecution and eventually settled in Asheville, North Carolina. This lesson may be used as an 8th grade Social Studies or English project(It could also be used as an integrated project), 10th grade English, or 11th grade US History. This lesson use the NCEcho portal to access the material.

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

By Billie Clemens.

W.A.R. (Wars Are Real)

This lesson plan allows students to research various American wars and conflicts that have occurred during the history of our country. It is designed as an end of the year project to cover a lot of our history in a short amount of time.

Format: lesson plan (grade 8 Social Studies)

By Jane Landreth.

Lesson plans on the web

Getting involved in war

Students consider the reasons Japan decided to attack Pearl Harbor. (Learn more)

Format: lesson plan (grade 8 Social Studies)

Provider: National Geographic