History (8)
Eighth-grade students take an in-depth look at select topics for our country’s history including the founding of the United States, the U.S. Constitution, the inner workings of the U.S. government, the Bill of Rights, and the country’s expansion. They gain an understanding of the general timeline of U.S. History guided by the concept of viewing our country’s development through the four worlds (political, economic, social, and cultural) and the rights enumerated in our U.S. Constitution, including citizens’ rights, states’ rights, and human rights.
The course begins with a geography overview and a study of different types of governments and what ideas influenced the foundations of the United States government. In the second trimester, students learn about the different articles of the Constitution and gain an understanding of the Separation of Powers, and Checks and Balances within the U.S. government. Students examine the Bill of Rights and debate their interpretations through a series of Socratic Seminars. Students also gain an understanding of their rights and responsibilities as citizens of the United States. Finally, the students write a persuasive essay regarding the Fourth Amendment’s search and seizure powers.
In the Spring, students look at the growth of the country, its westward expansion and understand the toll this took on the continent’s native populations. Students study and analyze the new nation and the different societies that emerged in the North, South, and West. Included in this analysis will be an in-depth look into the American Civil War and reconstruction efforts
Burke's mission is to educate, encourage and empower girls. Our school combines academic excellence with an appreciation for childhood so that students thrive as learners, develop a strong sense of self, contribute to community, and fulfill their potential, now and throughout life.
Burke's admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs.