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carson.vanwinkle
Carson Van Winkle
Carson Van Winkle
[email protected]
Hello! My name is Carson VanWinkle, and I am excited to be beginning my second year as a middle school Social Studies teacher. I am passionate about helping students develop a better understanding of history, think critically about the world around them, and grow into confident learners.

Outside of the classroom, I enjoy spending time with my family and making lasting memories. I have been married to my beautiful wife for one year, and she is one of my biggest supporters. Together, we enjoy spending time outdoors, traveling, and making the most of life's adventures.

In my classroom, I strive to create a welcoming environment where every student feels respected, challenged, and supported. I believe learning should be engaging, interactive, and connected to the real world. My goal is not only to teach history but also to help students build skills in communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving that will benefit them far beyond the classroom.
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Happy School Year to my Middle School Students!!!!!! Below is the Syllabus for each grade. Please reach out if you have any questions. My school email is: [email protected]

6th Grade Social Studies Syllabus

Greenwood Alternative School

Course Description: This is the 6th Grade Syllabus for Social Studies at Greenwood Alternative School.

6th Grade Social Studies

Course Syllabus

Teacher: Mr. VanWinkle

Course Description

Welcome to 6th Grade Social Studies! This year we will travel through the ancient world to discover how the earliest civilizations developed and how their achievements continue to influence our lives today. Students will examine geography, culture, government, religion, economics, and technological innovations while strengthening historical thinking skills through maps, primary sources, discussions, and projects. The course follows the Tennessee Academic Standards and pacing guide.

Units of Study

  • Foundations of Human Civilization
  • Ancient Mesopotamia
  • Ancient Egypt
  • Ancient Israel
  • Ancient India
  • Ancient China
  • Ancient Greece
  • Ancient Rome
  • Post-TCAP enrichment activities

Throughout the year, students will practice:

  • Historical thinking
  • Map and geography skills
  • Primary source analysis
  • Critical thinking
  • Writing historical arguments
  • Collaboration and presentations

7th Grade Social Studies

Course Syllabus

Teacher: Mr. VanWinkle

Course Description

Welcome to 7th Grade Social Studies! This course explores the Middle Ages and the growth of civilizations across Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas. Students will investigate how geography, religion, trade, innovation, and conflict shaped world history from the fall of Rome through the Renaissance. Students will develop critical thinking skills by analyzing historical evidence, participating in classroom discussions, and completing engaging activities and projects aligned with Tennessee standards. The curriculum includes major civilizations such as the Byzantine Empire, Islamic Empires, West African kingdoms, Medieval Europe, and the Renaissance.

Units of Study

  • The Byzantine Empire
  • The Rise of Islam
  • Islamic Empires
  • West African Kingdoms
  • Medieval Europe
  • The Crusades
  • The Black Death
  • The Renaissance
  • The Reformation
  • Early Exploration
  • Post-TCAP enrichment activities

Students will build skills in:

  • Historical inquiry
  • Primary source analysis
  • Geography
  • Comparing civilizations
  • Cause and effect
  • Historical writing
  • Presentations and collaborative learning

8th Grade U.S. History

Course Syllabus

Teacher: Mr. VanWinkle

Course Description

Welcome to 8th Grade U.S. History! This course examines the development of the United States from the nation's founding through Reconstruction following the Civil War. Students will explore the people, events, and ideas that shaped America while strengthening their abilities to analyze historical sources, evaluate evidence, and communicate historical arguments. Instruction follows Tennessee Academic Standards and includes interactive activities, projects, and document-based learning.

Units of Study

  • Colonial America
  • Causes of the American Revolution
  • The American Revolution
  • Creating the Constitution
  • The Early Republic
  • Westward Expansion
  • Jacksonian America
  • Reform Movements
  • Sectionalism
  • The Civil War
  • Reconstruction
  • Post-TCAP enrichment activities

Students will develop:

  • Historical reasoning
  • Map skills
  • Analysis of primary and secondary sources
  • Evidence-based writing
  • Critical thinking
  • Public speaking and collaboration

 

 

Classroom Expectations

1. Be Ready to Learn

  • Enter the classroom quietly.
  • Sit in your assigned seat.
  • Begin the bell ringer (OPTIC) immediately.

2. Respect Everyone's Opportunity to Learn

  • Raise your hand before speaking.
  • Wait until you are called on.
  • Listen when others are talking.

3. Stay in Your Seat Unless Given Permission

  • Ask before getting up.
  • Return to your seat promptly.

4. Be Respectful

  • Use appropriate language.
  • Treat classmates, teachers, and classroom materials with respect.
  • Disagree with ideas respectfully.

5. Give Your Best Effort

  • Participate in class discussions.
  • Complete assignments honestly.
  • Ask questions when you need help.

6. Follow Directions the First Time

  • Listen carefully.
  • Follow instructions promptly.
  • Help keep the class running smoothly.
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