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Skills available for Alaska eighth-grade social studies standards

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Alaska Social Studies Standards (adopted in 2024): Grade 8 Alaska Social Studies Standards (adopted in 2024): Grade 8
Alaska Content Standards: Literacy for Reading in History/Social Studies Grades 6-8 Alaska Content Standards: Literacy for Reading in History/Social Studies Grades 6-8
Alaska Content Standards Alaska Content Standards

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Theme 1 Geography and Early Civilizations of the Americas

6 Civic and Political Institutions and Systems
- SS.8.1.6.1 Investigate the unique ways that Indigenous peoples organize themselves and their societies.
16 Human Environment Interaction: Place, Regions, and Culture
- SS.8.1.16.1 Analyze the push and pull factors that influenced early people to migrate.
- SS.8.1.16.2 Investigate the interplay between Indigenous cultures of the Americas and their environment.
- SS.8.1.16.3 Identify the spiritual, cultural, and economic significance of geographic features in indigenous communities.
- SS.8.1.16.4 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.
18 Geographic Representations and Reasoning
- SS.8.1.18.1 Identify on a map the major physical features of North, Central, and South America.
  - Oceans and continents (8-W.1)
- SS.8.1.18.2 Research and locate on a map Indigenous place names, landmarks, and sacred sites throughout North, Central, and South America.
19 Human Populations: Spatial Patterns and Movements
- SS.8.1.19.1 Investigate patterns of migration of early people as they settled across Alaska and North, Central, and South America.
  - Pre-contact Native peoples: introduction (8-H.1)
23 Change, Continuity, and Context
- SS.8.1.23.1 Explain the importance of artifacts and oral histories in understanding how prehistoric people lived.
  - The Neolithic Period (8)
24 Historical Thinking
- SS.8.1.24.1 Describe the technical limitations of historians and archeologists studying the distant past.

Theme 2 Age of Exploration, Exploitation, and Colonialism

11 Economic Systems, Models, and Markets
- SS.8.2.11.1 Analyze how the exchange of goods contributed to the development of global trade.
17 Global Interconnections: Changing Spatial Patterns
- SS.8.2.17.1 Evaluate the long-term impact of the Columbian Exchange.
  - The Columbian Exchange (8-J.6)
19 Human Populations: Spatial Patterns and Movements
- SS.8.2.19.1 Identify trade routes and networks that facilitated the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures between continents.
21 Perspectives
- SS.8.2.21.1 Compare and contrast perspectives through primary and secondary source research.
- SS.8.2.21.2 Compare the economic, technological, and cultural factors that motivated exploration.
23 Change, Continuity, and Context
- SS.8.2.23.1 Examine the impacts of encounters between explorers and Indigenous populations.
23 Change, Continuity, and Context
- SS.8.2.23.2 Investigate the ways in which cultural diffusion occurred in cross-cultural interactions.
- SS.8.2.23.3 Examine how power dynamics during this time period laid the groundwork for modern geopolitical relationships.
- SS.8.2.23.4 Research the connections between the origins and outcomes of colonization in today's world.
24 Historical Thinking
- SS.8.2.24.1 Investigate the impacts of European colonization on Indigenous populations.

Theme 3 Establishment of European Colonies

6 Civic and Political Institutions and Systems
- SS.8.3.6.1 Identify the factors that led to the growth of representative government in colonial societies.
7 Participation and Deliberation
- SS.8.3.7.1 Investigate the impact of events on colonial governance and social structures.
11 Economic Systems, Models, and Markets
- SS.8.3.11.1 Examine the economic systems of different colonial regions.
16 Human Environment Interaction: Place, Regions, and Culture
- SS.8.3.16.1 Analyze the impact of geographical and environmental factors on the development of colonial economies, settlements, and trade networks.
19 Human Populations: Spatial Patterns and Movements
- SS.8.3.19.1 Evaluate the consequences of the Atlantic slave trade.
  - Middle Colonies: economy and society (8-K.8)
  - Southern Colonies: economy and slavery (8-K.10)
21 Perspectives
- SS.8.3.21.1 Compare and contrast primary sources to identify similarities and differences in the experiences of different groups in Colonial America.
- SS.8.3.21.2 Examine the reasons for European colonization in different regions of Colonial America.
23 Change, Continuity, and Context
- SS.8.3.23.1 Investigate the interactions and conflicts between people in Colonial America.

Theme 4 American Revolution and the New Republic

6 Civic and Political Institutions and Systems
- SS.8.4.6.1 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.
7 Participation and Deliberation
- SS.8.4.7.1 Investigate the role of social movements and protests in shaping American society and politics.
21 Perspectives
- SS.8.4.21.1 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.8.4.21.2 Investigate the economic, political, and social factors that contributed to tensions between American colonies and the British government leading up to the Revolution.
- SS.8.4.21.3 Examine the principles of the Enlightenment and their influence on the ideas of liberty, equality, and individual rights during this period.
  - The Enlightenment: origins and natural rights (8-I.5)
  - The Enlightenment: influences on government (8-I.6)
23 Change, Continuity, and Context
- SS.8.4.23.1 Analyze the challenges faced by the newly independent United States.
  - Washington's presidency: part I (8-M.3)
  - Washington's presidency: part II (8-M.4)
- SS.8.4.23.2 Identify the key events of the American Revolution and their significance in the fight for independence.
24 Historical Thinking
- SS.8.4.24.1 Evaluate the consequences of the American Revolution on various groups.
  - The Revolutionary War: conclusion and aftermath (8-L.8)

Theme 5 Civic and Political Institutions of the U.S.

6 Civic and Political Institutions and Systems
- SS.8.5.6.1 Define the fundamental principles of democracy, including popular sovereignty, rule of law, and individual rights.
- SS.8.5.6.2 Identify and explain the three branches of the federal government (executive, legislative, judicial) and their roles in creating, implementing, and interpreting laws.
- SS.8.5.6.3 Analyze the role of state, local, and Tribal governments and their relationship to the federal government.
  - State and local government (8-A.6)
- SS.8.5.6.4 Research and understand the role of state, local, and Tribal government structures and institutions in addressing community needs.
  - Purposes of government (8-A.1)
- SS.8.5.6.5 Investigate the role of political parties, including their influence on the electoral process and the shaping of public policy.
- SS.8.5.6.6 Examine the structure and functions of the U.S. Congress in making laws and representing constituents.
  - The Legislative Branch (8-A.2)
- SS.8.5.6.7 Analyze the role of the president in the executive branch, including their powers, responsibilities, and interactions with other branches of government.
  - The Executive Branch (8-A.3)
- SS.8.5.6.8 Examine the structure and function of the judicial branch in interpreting the meaning of laws.
  - The Judicial Branch (8-A.4)
7 Participation and Deliberation
- SS.8.5.7.1 Analyze the role of interest groups and lobbyists in influencing policy decisions and the democratic process.
- SS.8.5.7.2 Evaluate the impact of public policies on various groups within society.
8 Processes, Rules, and Laws
- SS.8.5.8.1 Investigate the election process and its impact on representation.
- SS.8.5.8.2 Evaluate the importance of compromise, negotiation, and the rule of law in the functioning of democratic institutions.
10 Rights, Roles, and Responsibilities of Citizens
- SS.8.5.10.1 Explore the rights and responsibilities of people in a representative democracy.
  - Rights and responsibilities of active citizenship (8-D.2)
- SS.8.5.10.2 Analyze the significance of civic participation through activities such as voting, community service, and advocacy.
  - Rights and responsibilities of active citizenship (8-D.2)
- SS.8.5.10.3 Investigate the role of media and technology in shaping public opinion and facilitating civic engagement.
- SS.8.5.10.4 Reflect on the responsibilities of active citizenship and the potential for individual and collective impact.
  - Rights and responsibilities of active citizenship (8-D.2)

Theme 6 Manifest Destiny and Indian Removal

8 Processes, Rules, and Laws
- SS.8.6.8.1 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.
  - Indian Removal and the Trail of Tears (8-N.3)
- SS.8.6.8.2 Identify key events and policies related to westward expansion.
  - The Louisiana Purchase (8-M.7)
  - Industrial and Transportation Revolutions (8-O.1)
16 Human Environment Interaction: Place, Regions, and Culture
- SS.8.6.16.1 Evaluate the impact of westward expansion on different regions and its contribution to the Civil War.
21 Perspectives
- SS.8.6.21.1 Evaluate how different groups viewed westward expansion and the policies of Indian Removal.
  - Indian Removal and the Trail of Tears (8-N.3)
- SS.8.6.21.2 Investigate the historical and contemporary impacts of westward expansion on people and the environment.
  - Indian Removal and the Trail of Tears (8-N.3)
- SS.8.6.21.3 Investigate the role of individuals and groups in shaping responses to Indian Removal policies.
  - Indian Removal and the Trail of Tears (8-N.3)
23 Change, Continuity, and Context
- SS.8.6.23.1 Investigate the economic, social, and political factors that contributed to the idea of Manifest Destiny and westward expansion.
- SS.8.6.23.2 Analyze the impact of technological advancements on the ability to settle in and transport goods to the western frontier.
  - Industrial and Transportation Revolutions (8-O.1)
24 Historical Thinking
- SS.8.6.24.1 Examine the historical and ongoing consequences of Indian Removal on Native American communities, their cultures, and their relationships with the U.S. government.
  - Indian Removal and the Trail of Tears (8-N.3)

Theme 7 The Civil War and Reform Movements

21 Perspectives
- SS.8.7.21.1 Analyze viewpoints from different time periods to evaluate changing perspectives.
- SS.8.7.21.2 Investigate the economic, political, and social factors that contributed to the sectional tensions leading to secession of the outbreak of the Civil War.
22 Historical Sources and Evidence
- SS.8.7.22.1 Identify the key events of the Civil War and their significance in shaping the outcome of the conflict and the nation.
23 Change, Continuity, and Context
- SS.8.7.23.1 Analyze the social and cultural factors that led to the rise of social and political reform movements.
  - The end of Reconstruction and the rise of Jim Crow (8-Q.2)
- SS.8.7.23.2 Examine the social and political changes brought about by the Emancipation Proclamation, and the 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments.
  - Radical Reconstruction (8-Q.1)
  - The end of Reconstruction and the rise of Jim Crow (8-Q.2)
- SS.8.7.23.3 Evaluate the impact of reform movements on historical and contemporary societies.
- SS.8.7.23.4 Analyze the contributions of key individuals to the advancement of civil rights and social change.
- SS.8.7.23.5 Investigate the role of social movements in shaping political and cultural landscapes.
24 Historical Thinking
- SS.8.7.4.1 Examine the slavery as a central issue in the Civil War, its role in regional economies, and the arguments for its abolition.

Theme 8 Reconstruction

7 Participation and Deliberation
- SS.8.8.7.1 Reflect on lessons from history to engage in discussions about the ongoing struggle to promote social change in modern society.
8 Processes, Rules, and Laws
- SS.8.8.8.1 Identify the key policies and legislation of Reconstruction, including the 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments, and assess their significance in advancing civil rights.
  - Radical Reconstruction (8-Q.1)
  - The end of Reconstruction and the rise of Jim Crow (8-Q.2)
- SS.8.8.8.2 Evaluate the establishment of white supremacist organizations and the enforcement of Jim Crow laws.
  - The end of Reconstruction and the rise of Jim Crow (8-Q.2)
21 Perspectives
- SS.8.8.21.1 Compare and contrast viewpoints from different historical perspectives to evaluate changing attitudes toward race, citizenship, and civil rights.
- SS.8.8.21.2 Examine the lingering effects of slavery on the lives of newly freed African Americans.
  - Radical Reconstruction (8-Q.1)
  - The end of Reconstruction and the rise of Jim Crow (8-Q.2)
- SS.8.8.21.3 Analyze the resistance to change and the rise of white supremacist ideologies as significant challenges during Reconstruction.
  - The end of Reconstruction and the rise of Jim Crow (8-Q.2)
22 Historical Sources and Evidence
- SS.8.8.22.1 Identify and analyze primary sources to gain insights into the experiences of African Americans during Reconstruction.
- SS.8.8.22.2 Investigate the social, economic, and political conditions that led to Reconstruction.
  - Radical Reconstruction (8-Q.1)
24 Historical Thinking
- SS.8.8.24.1 Investigate the historical and contemporary impact of Reconstruction.
  - Radical Reconstruction (8-Q.1)
  - The end of Reconstruction and the rise of Jim Crow (8-Q.2)

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Theme 1 Geography and Early Civilizations of the Americas

6 Civic and Political Institutions and Systems

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

16 Human Environment Interaction: Place, Regions, and Culture

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

SS.8.1.16.2 Investigate the interplay between Indigenous cultures of the Americas and their environment.

SS.8.1.16.3 Identify the spiritual, cultural, and economic significance of geographic features in indigenous communities.

SS.8.1.16.4 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.

18 Geographic Representations and Reasoning

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

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

19 Human Populations: Spatial Patterns and Movements

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

23 Change, Continuity, and Context

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

24 Historical Thinking

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

Theme 2 Age of Exploration, Exploitation, and Colonialism

11 Economic Systems, Models, and Markets

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

17 Global Interconnections: Changing Spatial Patterns

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

19 Human Populations: Spatial Patterns and Movements

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

21 Perspectives

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

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

23 Change, Continuity, and Context

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

23 Change, Continuity, and Context

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

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

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

24 Historical Thinking

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

Theme 3 Establishment of European Colonies

6 Civic and Political Institutions and Systems

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

7 Participation and Deliberation

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

11 Economic Systems, Models, and Markets

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

16 Human Environment Interaction: Place, Regions, and Culture

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

19 Human Populations: Spatial Patterns and Movements

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

21 Perspectives

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

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

23 Change, Continuity, and Context

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

Theme 4 American Revolution and the New Republic

6 Civic and Political Institutions and Systems

SS.8.4.6.1 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.

7 Participation and Deliberation

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

21 Perspectives

SS.8.4.21.1 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.8.4.21.2 Investigate the economic, political, and social factors that contributed to tensions between American colonies and the British government leading up to the Revolution.

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

23 Change, Continuity, and Context

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

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

24 Historical Thinking

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

Theme 5 Civic and Political Institutions of the U.S.

6 Civic and Political Institutions and Systems

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

7 Participation and Deliberation

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