January and End of Semester 1

2015 is here! Throughout January, students will be studying Harrisonburg's local government and Virginia's state government. Students will also examine how public policy is made at each level of government and how they can influence laws that are written. Students will  practice influencing policy by choosing a policy issue important to them to research and write a letter to a policy-maker in government about their topic.

December

In December, students will be learning about Government at the State and Local levels. Students will compare these levels of government to the National level and notice similarities and differences. Students will discuss and explain Federalism, the division of powers between the different levels of government.

November Topics

Throughout the month of November, Civics students will begin learning about the National Government of the United States. Special emphasis will be placed on the roles of the three branches of government (Legislative, Executive, and Judicial). Students will create a Three Branches Tree explaining the functions of each branch of government, write a journal as President of the USA, and explore the ways each branch of government checks and balances out the other two branches.

October is Here!

Since it is election season, throughout the month of October, students will be learning about the political process including topics like elections, political parties, voting, and campaigns. Students will also begin reviewing for their first Civics Benchmark on Nov. 7.

September Topics

Throughout September, we will be covering topics related to citizenship, the foundations of government, and looking at how the national government is set-up.

Derstine's Message

Welcome to my 8th Grade Civics and Economics webpage. This page is for students and parents alike to stay informed on what is happening in class. Check back here often for upcoming events, assignments, tests, and other documents. Please contact me with any questions or concerns you may have. 

Brendon Derstine

8th Grade Civics and Economics Teacher

Thomas Harrison Middle School

1311 West Market Street

Harrisonburg VA, 22801

e-mail: bderstine@harrisonburg.k12.va.us

Phone #: (540) 434-1949