1. Welcome to Social Studies 8! with Mrs. Dolin

2. Competencies for 21 st Learners Practical problem-solver Effective communicator Information literate researcher Self-directed learner Collaborative team member Globally aware citizen

3. Introduction unit World map skills What makes a successful civilization? Timelines Geography glossary Elements of culture

4. China – Tang and Song Geography Three major religions/philosophies: –Daoism, Buddhism, Confucianism Dynastic Rule The Silk Road Achievements and contributions

5. China - Mongols and Ming Yuan Dynasty: Genghis Khan and Kublai Khan Marco Polo Ming Dynasty: Chinese exploration with Zheng He

6. Rise of Islam Geography of Middle East Comparison of the Abrahamic Faiths: –Christianity, Judaism, Islam Life of Muhammad, founder of Islam Five Pillars of Islam Early caliphates and politics Contributions of the Muslims

7. Medieval Europe Fall of Rome Barbarian Invasions Rise of Feudalism Manor system Rise of Christianity Power of the Church Crusades Byzantine Empire Plague/Black Death

8. Latin America: Aztecs, Incas and Mayans Geography Cultural elements – how did they live? What happened to their civilizations? Contributions

9. 1492 Rise of Renaissance European exploration Discovery of the New World European Spice Trade Christopher Columbus and his impact on the New World

10. Eighth Grade Exit Performance Working in small groups to solve a problem and present to outside judges Winner Skye or conference call important people in the world (i.e.: the White House, London School of Economics employees, UN employees)