Common Planner
K–12 Standards

Grade 8 U.S. History and Civics

Other Alaska Social Studies sets

Geography and Early Civilizations of the AmericasSS.8.1

  •  

    Time Period: 10,000 BCE to 1492 CE

    1.  

      Early Human Migration

      1. 19

        Human Populations: Spatial Patterns and MovementsSS.8.1.19

        1. 1

          Investigate patterns of migration of early people as they settled across Alaska and North, Central, and South America.SS.8.1.19.1

      2. 16

        Human Environment Interaction: Place, Regions, and CultureSS.8.1.16

        1. 1

          Analyze the push and pull factors that influenced early people to migrate.SS.8.1.16.1

      3. 23

        Change, Continuity, and ContextSS.8.1.23

        1. 1

          Explain the importance of artifacts and oral histories in understanding how prehistoric people lived.SS.8.1.23.1

      4. 24

        Historical ThinkingSS.8.1.24

        1. 1

          Describe the technical limitations of historians and archeologists studying the distant past.SS.8.1.24.1

    2.  

      Physical Geography of the Americas

      1. 18

        Geographic Representations and ReasoningSS.8.1.18

        1. 1

          Identify on a map the major physical features of North, Central, and South America.SS.8.1.18.1

        2. 2

          Research and locate on a map Indigenous place names, landmarks, and sacred sites throughout North, Central, and South America.SS.8.1.18.2

    3.  

      Indigenous Cultural Groups of the Americas

      1. 16

        Human Environment Interaction: Place, Regions, and Culture SS.8.1.16

        1. 1

          Investigate the interplay between Indigenous cultures of the Americas and their environment.SS.8.1.16.1

        2. 2

          Identify the spiritual, cultural, and economic significance of geographic features in Indigenous communities.SS.8.1.16.2

        3. 3

          Use the five themes of geography (location, place, movement, human‐environmental interaction, and region) to describe a specific Sovereign Tribal Nation or Indigenous peoples group.SS.8.1.16.3

      2. 6

        Civic and Political Institutions and SystemsSS.8.1.6

        1. 1

          Investigate the unique ways that Indigenous peoples organize themselves and their societies. SS.8.1.6.1

Age of Exploration, Exploitation, and ColonialismSS.8.2

  •  

    Time Period: 1400s–1750s

    1.  

      Gathering and Evaluating Sources

      1. 2

        Evaluate Sources and EvidenceSS.8.2.2

        1. 1

          Identify primary and secondary sources related to European exploration and colonization, considering their reliability and potential bias.SS.8.2.2.1

        2. 2

          Analyze a variety of primary sources about exploration routes, encounters, and cultural exchanges.SS.8.2.2.2

      2. 21

        PerspectivesSS.8.2.21

        1. 1

          Compare and contrast perspectives through primary and secondary source research.SS.8.2.21.1

    2.  

      Exploration and Exploitation

      1. 21

        PerspectivesSS.8.2.21

        1. 2

          Compare the economic, technological, and cultural factors that motivated exploration.SS.8.2.21.2

      2. 23

        Change, Continuity, and ContextSS.8.2.23

        1. 1

          Examine the impacts of encounters between explorers and Indigenous populations.SS.8.2.23.1

      3. 17

        Global Interconnections: Changing Spatial Patterns SS.8.2.17

        1. 1

          Evaluate the long‐term impact of the Columbian Exchange.SS.8.2.17.1

    3.  

      Global Interconnections

      1. 19

        Human Populations: Spatial Patterns and MovementsSS.8.2.19

        1. 1

          Identify trade routes and networks that facilitated the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures between continents.SS.8.2.19.1

      2. 11

        Economic Systems, Models, and MarketsSS.8.2.11

        1. 1

          Analyze how the exchange of goods contributed to the development of global trade.SS.8.2.11.1

      3. 23

        Change, Continuity, and ContextSS.8.2.23

        1. 2

          Investigate the ways in which cultural diffusion occurred in cross‐cultural interactions.SS.8.2.23.2

    4.  

      Civic Participation

      1. 24

        Historical ThinkingSS.8.2.24

        1. 1

          Investigate the impacts of European colonization on Indigenous populations.SS.8.2.24.1

      2. 23

        Change, Continuity, and ContextSS.8.2.23

        1. 3

          Examine how power dynamics during this time period laid the groundwork for modern geopolitical relationships.SS.8.2.23.3

        2. 4

          Research the connections between the origins and outcomes of colonization in today’s world.SS.8.2.23.4

      3. 5

        Informed Civic Discourse and EngagementSS.8.2.5

        1. 1

          Reflect on lessons from history to engage in discussions about present‐day issues related to cultural exchange, environmental impact, and global cooperation.SS.8.2.5.1

Establishment of European Colonies SS.8.3

  •  

    Time Period: 1490–1750

    1.  

      Analyzing Primary Sources

      1. 2

        Evaluate Sources and EvidenceSS.8.3.2

        1. 1

          Identify and analyze primary sources to understand the unique perspectives of different groups in Colonial America.SS.8.3.2.1

      2. 21

        PerspectivesSS.8.3.21

        1. 1

          Compare and contrast primary sources to identify similarities and differences in the experiences of different groups in Colonial America.SS.8.3.21.1

    2.  

      Understanding Historical Context

      1. 21

        PerspectivesSS.8.3.21

        1. 2

          Examine the reasons for European colonization in different regions of Colonial America. SS.8.3.21.2

      2. 16

        Human Environment Interaction: Place, Regions, and CultureSS.8.3.16

        1. 1

          Analyze the impact of geographical and environmental factors on the development of colonial economies, settlements, and trade networks.SS.8.3.16.1

      3. 23

        Change, Continuity, and ContextSS.8.3.23

        1. 1

          Investigate the interactions and conflicts between people in Colonial America.SS.8.3.23.1

    3.  

      Cause and Effect

      1. 6

        Civic and Political Institutions and SystemsSS.8.3.6

        1. 1

          Identify the factors that led to the growth of representative government in colonial societies.SS.8.3.6.1

      2. 11

        Economic Systems, Models, and MarketsSS.8.3.11

        1. 1

          Examine the economic systems of different colonial regions.SS.8.3.11.1

      3. 19

        Human Populations: Spatial Patterns and MovementsSS.8.3.19

        1. 1

          Evaluate the consequences of the Atlantic slave trade.SS.8.3.19.1

    4.  

      Civic Participation and Decision‐Making

      1. 3

        Develop ClaimsSS.8.3.3

        1. 1

          Analyze the contributions of key individuals to the development of colonial societies and ideas.SS.8.3.3.1

      2. 7

        Participation and Deliberation SS.8.3.7

        1. 1

          Investigate the impact of events on colonial governance and social structures.SS.8.3.7.1

      3. 5

        Informed Civic Discourse and EngagementSS.8.3.5

        1. 1

          Reflect on the lessons from Colonial America to engage in discussions about the importance of civic engagement, individual rights, and the balance of power in contemporary society.SS.8.3.5.1

American Revolution and the New RepublicSS.8.4

  •  

    Time Period: 1750 CE–1814 CE

    1.  

      Analyzing Historical Documents

      1. 2

        Evaluate Sources and EvidenceSS.8.4.2

        1. 1

          Identify and analyze primary sources to gain insights into the thoughts and actions of key figures during the American Revolution.SS.8.4.2.1

        2. 2

          Examine secondary sources to understand differing interpretations of events and their significance.SS.8.4.2.2

      2. 21

        PerspectivesSS.8.4.21

        1. 1

          Compare and contrast viewpoints from different historical periods to evaluate changing perspectives on the American Revolution and the early years of the New Republic.SS.8.4.21.1

    2.  

      Understanding Historical Context

      1. 21

        PerspectivesSS.8.4.21

        1. 2

          Investigate the economic, political, and social factors that contributed to tensions between American colonies and the British government leading up to the Revolution.SS.8.4.21.2

        2. 3

          Examine the principles of the Enlightenment and their influence on the ideas of liberty, equality, and individual rights during this period.SS.8.4.21.3

      2. 23

        Change, Continuity, and Context SS.8.4.23

        1. 1

          Analyze the challenges faced by the newly independent United States.SS.8.4.23.1

    3.  

      Cause and Effect

      1. 23

        Change, Continuity, and Context SS.8.4.23

        1. 2

          Identify the key events of the American Revolution and their significance in the fight for independence.SS.8.4.23.2

      2. 6

        Civic and Political Institutions and SystemsSS.8.4.6

        1. 1

          Examine the drafting and ratification of the U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights and their impact on shaping the structure of the federal government.SS.8.4.6.1

      3. 24

        Historical ThinkingSS.8.4.24

        1. 1

          Evaluate the consequences of the American Revolution on various groups.SS.8.4.24.1

    4.  

      Civic Participation and Decision‐Making

      1. 3

        Develop ClaimsSS.8.4.3

        1. 1

          Analyze the contributions of individuals to the development of American democracy and the New Republic.SS.8.4.3.1

      2. 7

        Participation and Deliberation SS.8.4.7

        1. 1

          Investigate the role of social movements and protests in shaping American society and politics.SS.8.4.7.1

      3. 5

        Informed Civic Discourse and EngagementSS.8.4.5

        1. 1

          Reflect on the principles of democracy and civic responsibility that emerged from the American Revolution and the early years of the New Republic and their relevance to contemporary society.SS.8.4.5.1

Civic and Political Institutions of the U.S.SS.8.5

  • 5

    Civic and Political Institutions of the U.S.SS.8.5

Understanding Civic Life and Government

  • 6

    Civic and Political Institutions and SystemsSS.8.5.6

    1. 1

      Define the fundamental principles of democracy, including popular sovereignty, rule of law, and individual rights.SS.8.5.6.1

    2. 2

      Identify and explain the three branches of the federal government (executive, legislative, judicial) and their roles in creating, implementing, and interpreting laws.SS.8.5.6.2

    3. 3

      Analyze the role of state, local, and Tribal governments and their relationship to the federal government. SS.8.5.6.3

    4. 4

      Research and understand the role of state, local, and Tribal government structures and institutions in addressing community needs.SS.8.5.6.4

Analyzing Political Institutions

  • 6

    Civic and Political Institutions and SystemsSS.8.5.6

    1. 5

      Investigate the role of political parties, including their influence on the electoral process and the shaping of public policy.SS.8.5.6.5

    2. 6

      Examine the structure and functions of the U.S. Congress in making laws and representing constituents.SS.8.5.6.6

    3. 7

      Analyze the role of the president in the executive branch, including their powers, responsibilities, and interactions with other branches of government.SS.8.5.6.7

    4. 8

      Examine the structure and function of the judicial branch in interpreting the meaning of laws.SS.8.5.6.8

Engaging in Civic Participation

  • 10

    Rights, Roles, and Responsibilities of CitizensSS.8.5.10

    1. 1

      Explore the rights and responsibilities of people in a representative democracy.SS.8.5.10.1

    2. 2

      Analyze the significance of civic participation through activities such as voting, community service, and advocacy.SS.8.5.10.2

    3. 3

      Investigate the role of media and technology in shaping public opinion and facilitating civic engagement.SS.8.5.10.3

    4. 4

      Reflect on the responsibilities of active citizenship and the potential for individual and collective impact.SS.8.5.10.4

Examining Democratic Processes

  • 8

    Processes, Rules, and Laws SS.8.5.8

    1. 1

      Investigate the election process and its impact on representation.SS.8.5.8.1

    2. 2

      Evaluate the importance of compromise, negotiation, and the rule of law in the functioning of democratic institutions.SS.8.5.8.2

  • 7

    Participation and Deliberation SS.8.5.7

    1. 1

      Analyze the role of interest groups and lobbyists in influencing policy decisions and the democratic process.SS.8.5.7.1

    2. 2

      Evaluate the impact of public policies on various groups within society.SS.8.5.7.2

Manifest Destiny and Indian RemovalSS.8.6

  •  

    Time Period: 1815 CE–1860 CE

    1.  

      Analyzing Multiple Perspectives

      1. 2

        Evaluate Sources and EvidenceSS.8.6.2

        1. 1

          Examine primary sources to understand the viewpoints on Manifest Destiny.SS.8.6.2.1

        2. 2

          Compare and contrast the perspectives on issues related to land ownership and sovereignty.SS.8.6.2.2

      2. 21

        PerspectivesSS.8.6.21

        1. 1

          Evaluate how different groups viewed westward expansion and the policies of Indian Removal.SS.8.6.21.1

    2.  

      Understanding Historical Context

      1. 23

        Change, Continuity, and ContextSS.8.6.23

        1. 1

          Investigate the economic, social, and political factors that contributed to the idea of Manifest Destiny and westward expansion.SS.8.6.23.1

        2. 2

          Analyze the impact of technological advancements on the ability to settle in and transport goods to the western frontier.SS.8.6.23.2

      2. 8

        Processes, Rules, and Laws SS.8.6.8

        1. 1

          Examine the conflicting interests between Native American tribes and the U.S. government, as well as the legal and political frameworks that shaped Indian Removal policies. SS.8.6.8.1

    3.  

      Cause and Effect

      1. 8

        Processes, Rules, and Laws SS.8.6.8

        1. 2

          Identify key events and policies related to westward expansion.SS.8.6.8.2

      2. 24

        Historical ThinkingSS.8.6.24

        1. 1

          Examine the historical and ongoing consequences of Indian Removal on Native American communities, their cultures, and their relationships with the U.S. government.SS.8.6.24.1

      3. 16

        Human Environment Interaction: Place, Regions, and CultureSS.8.6.16

        1. 1

          Evaluate the impact of westward expansion on different regions and its contribution to the Civil War.SS.8.6.16.1

    4.  

      Ethical Decision‐ Making

      1. 21

        PerspectivesSS.8.6.21

        1. 2

          Investigate the historical and contemporary impacts of westward expansion on people and the environment.SS.8.6.21.2

        2. 3

          Investigate the role of individuals and groups in shaping responses to Indian Removal policies. SS.8.6.21.3

      2. 5

        Informed Civic Discourse and Engagement SS.8.6.5

        1. 1

          Reflect on lessons from history to engage in discussions about the impact of history on modern society.SS.8.6.5.1

The Civil War and Reform MovementsSS.8.7

  •  

    Time Period: 1837 CE–1877 CE

    1.  

      Analyzing Primary and Secondary Sources

      1. 2

        Evaluate Sources and EvidenceSS.8.7.2

        1. 1

          Identify and analyze primary sources to gain insights into the experiences of individuals during this era.SS.8.7.2.1

        2. 2

          Examine secondary sources to understand how interpretations of events differ.SS.8.7.2.2

    2.  

      Analyzing Primary and Secondary Sources

      1. 21

        PerspectivesSS.8.7.21

        1. 1

          Analyze viewpoints from different time periods to evaluate changing perspectives.SS.8.7.21.1

    3.  

      Understanding Historical Context

      1. 21

        PerspectivesSS.8.7.21

        1. 2

          Investigate the economic, political, and social factors that contributed to the sectional tensions leading to secession and the outbreak of the Civil War.SS.8.7.21.2

      2. 24

        Historical ThinkingSS.8.7.24

        1. 1

          Examine slavery as a central issue in the Civil War, its role in regional economies, and the arguments for its abolition.SS.8.7.24.1

      3. 23

        Change, Continuity, and ContextSS.8.7.23

        1. 1

          Analyze the social and cultural factors that led to the rise of social and political reform movements.SS.8.7.23.1

    4.  

      Cause and Effect

      1. 22

        Historical Sources and EvidenceSS.8.7.22

        1. 1

          Identify the key events of the Civil War and their significance in shaping the outcome of the conflict and the nation.SS.8.7.22.1

      2. 23

        Change, Continuity, and ContextSS.8.7.23

        1. 2

          Examine the social and political changes brought about by the Emancipation Proclamation, and the 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments.SS.8.7.23.2

        2. 3

          Evaluate the impact of reform movements on historical and contemporary societies.SS.8.7.23.3

    5.  

      Civic Participation and Decision‐Making

      1. 23

        Change, Continuity, and ContextSS.8.7.23

        1. 4

          Analyze the contributions of key individuals to the advancement of civil rights and social change.SS.8.7.23.4

        2. 5

          Investigate the role of social movements in shaping political and cultural landscapes.SS.8.7.23.5

      2. 5

        Informed Civic Discourse and EngagementSS.8.7.5

        1. 1

          Engage in collaborative discussions about the ongoing struggle for civil rights, equal justice, and the responsibilities of citizenship in a diverse society.SS.8.7.5.1

ReconstructionSS.8.8

  •  

    Time Period: 1865–1877

    1.  

      Analyzing Primary and Secondary Sources

      1. 22

        Historical Sources and EvidenceSS.8.8.22

        1. 1

          Identify and analyze primary sources to gain insights into the experiences of African Americans during Reconstruction.SS.8.8.22.1

      2. 2

        Evaluate Sources and EvidenceSS.8.8.2

        1. 1

          Examine secondary sources to understand differing interpretations of the Reconstruction era.SS.8.8.2.1

      3. 21

        PerspectivesSS.8.8.21

        1. 1

          Compare and contrast viewpoints from different historical perspectives to evaluate changing attitudes toward race, citizenship, and civil rights.SS.8.8.21.1

    2.  

      Understanding Historical Context

      1. 22

        Historical Sources and EvidenceSS.8.8.22

        1. 2

          Investigate the social, economic, and political conditions that led to Reconstruction.SS.8.8.22.2

      2. 21

        PerspectivesSS.8.8.21

        1. 1

          Examine the lingering effects of slavery on the lives of newly freed African Americans.SS.8.8.21.1

        2. 2

          Analyze the resistance to change and the rise of white supremacist ideologies as significant challenges during Reconstruction.SS.8.8.21.2

    3.  

      Cause and Effect

      1. 8

        Processes, Rules, and Laws SS.8.8.8

        1. 1

          Identify the key policies and legislation of Reconstruction, including the 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments, and assess their significance in advancing civil rights. SS.8.8.8.1

        2. 2

          Evaluate the establishment of white supremacist organizations and the enforcement of Jim Crow laws.SS.8.8.8.2

    4.  

      Ethical Decision‐ Making

      1. 24

        Historical ThinkingSS.8.8.24

        1. 1

          Investigate the historical and contemporary impact of Reconstruction.SS.8.8.24.1

      2. 7

        Participation and Deliberation SS.8.8.7

        1. 1

          Reflect on lessons from history to engage in discussions about the ongoing struggle to promote social change in modern society.SS.8.8.7.1

Frequently asked questions

What grade levels do these standards cover?
Grade 8
Where can I read the official document?
Alaska Social Studies Standards

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