American History | HS | Online Courses

Description

Course Objectives and Syllabus: 

This course is designed to achieve the following objectives, all aligned with California Educational Standards, and emphasizes measurable, attainable outcomes: 

Unit 1: “Exploring the New World” 

Objective: Investigate early European exploration and its impact. This unit aims to introduce students to the early European exploration of the Americas and its impact on both continents. By the end of this unit, students should have a solid understanding of the motivations behind exploration, the interactions between different cultures, and the enduring consequences of these journeys. 

Assignments:  

Explorer’s Journal: Imagine you are an explorer in the Age of Exploration. Keep a detailed journal of your journey, documenting encounters with indigenous peoples, natural wonders, and challenges faced. Reflect on the significance of your discoveries. 

Interactive Timeline: Create an interactive timeline featuring the most significant explorations of the New World. Include details such as the explorer’s name, the year of the voyage, major discoveries, and the impact on subsequent exploration. 

Cultural Exchange Simulation: Participate in a simulation of a cultural exchange between explorers and indigenous peoples. Research the customs, languages, and technologies of both groups and role-play an encounter to better understand the dynamics at play. 

Unit 2: “Colonial America Unveiled” 

Objective: In this unit, students will delve into the complexities of colonial life in America, examining social structures, economies, and political developments. By the end of this unit, students should have a comprehensive understanding of life in the American colonies and the factors shaping it. 

Assignments: 

Colonial Character Profile: Create a detailed character profile of a colonial resident, considering their background, occupation, social status, and aspirations. Present your character’s life story creatively. 

Virtual Colonial Town Hall: Participate in a virtual colonial town hall meeting. Assume the role of a colonist and engage in debates about taxation, representation, and other key issues of the time. Reflect on the challenges faced during the town hall discussions. 

Economic Systems Analysis: Compare and contrast the economic systems of various American colonies (e.g., New England, and Southern colonies). Analyze the impact of these systems on trade, agriculture, and labor. 

Unit 3: “Revolutionary Sparks” 

Objective: This unit explores the events leading up to the American Revolution, examining the causes and consequences of the revolutionary movement. By the end of this unit, students should have a deep understanding of the grievances that fueled the Revolution and the transformative impact it had on America. 

Assignments: 

Persuasive Essay: Write a persuasive essay outlining the primary causes of the American Revolution. Provide compelling arguments for independence and support your claims with historical evidence. 

Reenact Revolutionary Debates: Participate in a classroom reenactment of significant Revolutionary debates, such as debates over the Declaration of Independence or the Articles of Confederation. Take on the role of a historical figure and engage in spirited discussions. 

Declaration of Independence Analysis: Analyze the Declaration of Independence, dissecting its key principles and grievances against British rule. Reflect on the document’s enduring significance and its impact on modern democracy. 

Unit 4: “The Birth of a Nation” 

Objective: This unit focuses on the creation of the United States Constitution and the early years of the nation. Students will explore the formation of the federal government and its implications for American society. By the end of this unit, students should understand the foundational principles of the United States. 

Assignments: 

Constitutional Argument: Imagine you are a delegate at the Constitutional Convention. Draft a persuasive argument in favor of adopting the U.S. Constitution. Address concerns and objections raised during the convention. 

Bill of Rights Debate: Participate in a class debate on the necessity of the Bill of Rights. Take on the role of a Federalist or Anti-Federalist and argue for or against the inclusion of the Bill of Rights in the Constitution. 

Role of the Federal Government Analysis: Investigate the evolving role of the federal government during the early years of the United States. Analyze the impact of key legislation and Supreme Court decisions on the nation’s development. 

Unit 5: “Westward Expansion and Manifest Destiny” 

Objective: This unit explores the westward expansion of the United States and the concept of manifest destiny. Students will analyze the motivations, challenges, and consequences of westward movement. By the end of this unit, students should understand how westward expansion shaped the nation. 

Assignments: 

Expedition Journal: Create an expedition journal as if you are a pioneer heading westward during the 19th century. Document your journey, encounters, and challenges, and reflect on the concept of manifest destiny. 

Manifest Destiny Map: Design a map illustrating the expansion of the United States westward over time. Highlight major routes, events (e.g., Oregon Trail, California Gold Rush), and territorial acquisitions. 

Manifest Destiny Debate: Engage in a classroom debate about the concept of manifest destiny. Take on the roles of proponents and critics, and argue the merits and ethical considerations of westward expansion. 

Unit 6: “The Civil War and Reconstruction” 

Objective: In this unit, students will delve into the causes and consequences of the Civil War, as well as the challenges of the Reconstruction era. By the end of this unit, students should have a deep understanding of the complexities of the Civil War and its aftermath. 

Assignments: 

Civil War Figure Research: Select a prominent figure from the Civil War era (e.g., Abraham Lincoln, Frederick Douglass) and conduct detailed research on their contributions and impact. Present your findings creatively. 

Reconstruction Debate: Participate in a classroom debate about the goals and challenges of Reconstruction. Take on the roles of policymakers and advocates for various Reconstruction plans, and analyze their potential outcomes. 

Civil War Battle Analysis: Choose a significant Civil War battle and conduct an in-depth analysis of its significance, strategies, and outcomes. Create a multimedia presentation or report to illustrate your findings. 

Unit 7: “The Gilded Age and Progressive Era” 

Objective: This unit explores the Gilded Age and Progressive Era, focusing on industrialization, urbanization, and social reforms. Students will analyze the economic disparities and the push for progressive change during this period. By the end of this unit, students should understand the transformative impact of the Gilded Age and Progressive Era. 

Assignments: 

Progressive Reformer Profile: Select a prominent progressive reformer (e.g., Jane Addams, Theodore Roosevelt) and create a comprehensive profile outlining their contributions, initiatives, and impact on society. 

Political Cartoon Analysis: Analyze political cartoons from the Gilded Age and Progressive Era. Identify recurring themes and messages related to economic disparities, labor issues, and social reform. Create an analysis report or presentation. 

Multimedia Project on Reform: Develop a multimedia project highlighting one major reform movement of the Progressive Era (e.g., women’s suffrage, labor rights). Include visuals, interviews, and historical context to convey the movement’s significance. 

Unit 8: “World War I and the Roaring Twenties” 

Objective: Investigate the impact of WWI and societal changes. 

Assignments: Write a letter from a WWI soldier, and create a 1920s-themed magazine. 

Unit 9: “The Great Depression and the New Deal” 

Objective: Explore the causes and impact of the Great Depression. 

Assignments: Analyze primary sources from the era, and draft a New Deal proposal. 

Unit 10: “World War II and Its Aftermath” 

Objective: Study the causes, events, and consequences of WWII. 

Assignments: Investigate wartime propaganda, and simulate wartime negotiations. 

Unit 11: “The Civil Rights Movement” 

Objective: Analyze the Civil Rights Movement and its leaders. 

Assignments: Create a multimedia presentation on a civil rights activist, and analyze historical speeches. 

Unit 12: “The Cold War and Beyond” 

Objective: Examine the Cold War and its global implications. 

Assignments: Simulate a Cold War-era diplomatic negotiation, and analyze primary sources. 

Unit 13: “Modern America: Challenges and Opportunities” 

Objective: Investigate contemporary issues and America’s role in the world. 

Assignments: Analyze current events, and propose solutions to ongoing issues. 

Unit 14: Diplomatic Relations and Conflicts 

Objective: In this unit, students will delve into the complex world of diplomatic relations and conflicts in American history, with a focus on understanding key treaties, international agreements, and significant conflicts. By the end of this unit, students should be able to analyze the role of diplomacy in shaping American foreign policy and its impact on the nation’s history. 

Assignments: 

Treaty Analysis: Choose a significant treaty or international agreement from American history (e.g., Treaty of Paris, Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo) and create an in-depth analysis highlighting its objectives, key provisions, and impact on U.S. relations with other nations. 

Simulation of Diplomatic Negotiations: Participate in a simulated diplomatic negotiation, where you will represent the interests of the United States or another nation during a historical crisis. Reflect on the challenges and compromises encountered during the negotiation. 

Historical Conflict Analysis: Select one major international conflict involving the United States (e.g., the Spanish-American War, the Mexican-American War) and provide a detailed analysis of its causes, progression, and consequences on U.S. foreign relations. 

Unit 15: Causes and Consequences of the Mexican-American War 

Objective: This unit aims to explore the causes, events, and profound consequences of the Mexican-American War, a pivotal moment in American history. By the end of this unit, students should have a deep understanding of the factors that led to the war and its far-reaching effects on both nations. 

Assignments: 

Primary Source Analysis: Examine primary source documents, such as letters, diaries, and speeches, from individuals on both sides of the conflict. Analyze these sources to gain insights into the perspectives and motivations of those involved in the war. 

Battlefield Mapping: Create a detailed map illustrating the major battles and campaigns of the Mexican-American War. Annotate the map with key events and their outcomes, showcasing how these battles shaped the course of the war. 

Consequence Analysis: Investigate the long-term consequences of the Mexican-American War on both the United States and Mexico. Consider social, political, economic, and territorial impacts. Prepare a comparative report highlighting these consequences. 

Unit 16: Cuban Struggles for Independence 

Objective: In this unit, students will delve into the history of Cuba’s struggles for independence from Spanish rule. They will explore the key events, figures, and movements that shaped Cuba’s fight for autonomy. By the end of this unit, students should have a comprehensive understanding of the Cuban struggle for independence and its significance in the broader context of Latin American history. 

Assignments: 

Biographical Research: Choose a prominent figure from the Cuban independence movement (e.g., Jose Marti, Antonio Maceo) and conduct in-depth research on their life, contributions, and role in the struggle for independence. Present your findings creatively. 

Timeline of Cuban Independence: Create a detailed timeline highlighting key events and milestones in Cuba’s quest for independence. Include dates, descriptions, and the significance of each event. 

Comparative Analysis: Compare and contrast the Cuban struggle for independence with another Latin American independence movement (e.g., the Mexican War of Independence). Analyze similarities, differences, and the impact of external factors on each movement. 

Unit 17: Panama Canal 

Objective: This unit will explore the construction, significance, and geopolitical implications of the Panama Canal in American history. By the end of this unit, students should understand the economic, political, and technological factors that led to the canal’s construction and its lasting impact on global trade and diplomacy. 

Assignments: 

Engineering Marvel: Investigate the engineering challenges and innovations involved in building the Panama Canal. Create a multimedia presentation or report highlighting the canal’s construction methods and their impact on engineering. 

Economic Analysis: Analyze the economic benefits and drawbacks of the Panama Canal for the United States and other nations. Consider its role in trade routes and global commerce. 

Diplomatic Negotiations Simulation: Participate in a simulated diplomatic negotiation related to the acquisition and construction of the Panama Canal. Represent the interests of the United States or another involved party. Reflect on the diplomatic strategies employed and their outcomes. 

Unit 18: Modern Political Movements and Leaders 

Objective: In this unit, students will explore modern political movements and influential leaders in Latin America. They will analyze the ideologies, goals, and impacts of these movements, as well as the leaders who shaped political landscapes. By the end of this unit, students should have a deep understanding of contemporary political dynamics in the region. 

Assignments: 

Political Leader Profile: Choose a significant political leader from Latin America’s recent history (e.g., Hugo Chavez, Evo Morales) and create a detailed profile that includes their background, ideology, policies, and impact on their country’s politics. 

Analysis of Contemporary Movements: Select a modern political movement or party in Latin America (e.g., Bolivian Movement for Socialism) and analyze its origins, objectives, and key strategies. Present your findings through a multimedia presentation. 

Debate on Political Issues: Participate in a class debate on a current political issue in Latin America, taking on the role of a representative from one of the major political movements. Present your party’s stance and engage in a constructive debate with classmates. 

Unit 20: Contemporary Diplomatic Relations 

Objective: This unit focuses on the diplomatic relations between Latin American countries and the rest of the world in contemporary times. Students will explore diplomatic challenges, international partnerships, and global issues affecting the region. By the end of this unit, students should be able to analyze the dynamics of contemporary diplomatic relations. 

Assignments: 

Diplomatic Crisis Simulation: Participate in a simulated diplomatic crisis involving Latin American nations and a foreign power. Represent a diplomatic delegation and engage in negotiations to resolve the crisis. Reflect on the negotiation process and outcomes. 

Analysis of International Agreements: Choose a significant international agreement involving a Latin American country (e.g., NAFTA, Paris Agreement) and analyze its implications, benefits, and drawbacks for the nation. Create an informative infographic summarizing your findings. 

Model United Nations (MUN) Simulation: Participate in a Model United Nations-style simulation where you represent a Latin American nation and address a global issue on the agenda. Prepare a position paper, engage in debates, and propose solutions. 

Unit 21: Economic Relations with the U.S. and Other Nations 

Objective: This unit explores the economic relationships between Latin American countries, the United States, and other nations. Students will analyze trade agreements, economic dependencies, and the impact of globalization on Latin American economies. By the end of this unit, students should understand the complex economic dynamics in the region. 

Assignments: 

Trade Agreement Analysis: Select a significant trade agreement involving a Latin American country (e.g., USMCA, Mercosur) and analyze its impact on the nation’s economy, trade partners, and industries. Create a comparative analysis report. 

Economic Summit Presentation: Imagine you are a representative of a Latin American nation attending an economic summit with world leaders. Prepare a presentation outlining your nation’s economic challenges, goals, and proposals for collaboration. 

Globalization’s Impact Research: Research the impact of globalization on Latin American economies, considering both positive and negative effects. Create an informative video presentation summarizing your findings, including case studies. 

Unit 22: Environmental Issues 

Objective: This unit focuses on environmental issues affecting Latin America. Students will explore environmental challenges, such as deforestation, pollution, and climate change, and their impact on the region’s ecosystems and communities. By the end of this unit, students should comprehend the urgent need for environmental conservation. 

Assignments: 

Environmental Case Study: Choose an environmental issue in Latin America (e.g., Amazon rainforest deforestation) and conduct a comprehensive case study. Analyze its causes, consequences, and potential solutions. Present your findings through a multimedia report. 

Environmental Advocacy Campaign: Develop an environmental advocacy campaign aimed at raising awareness and promoting conservation efforts for a specific issue. Create engaging campaign materials, such as posters, social media content, and public service announcements. 

Eco-Friendly Solutions Proposal: Imagine you are advising a Latin American government on eco-friendly policies. Develop a proposal outlining sustainable solutions to address environmental challenges in the region. Present your proposal in a persuasive report. 

Unit 23: Environmental Challenges and Conservation Efforts 

Objective: This unit builds on the previous one by focusing on conservation efforts and strategies to address environmental challenges. Students will explore initiatives, policies, and global partnerships aimed at preserving the region’s natural resources. By the end of this unit, students should understand the importance of conservation for future generations. 

Assignments: 

Conservation Initiative Presentation: Choose a conservation initiative or project (e.g., reforestation programs) and create a persuasive presentation advocating for its support and expansion. Highlight its successes and impact. 

Global Conservation Partnership Analysis: Investigate a partnership or international organization dedicated to conservation efforts. Analyze their projects, objectives, and contributions to regional conservation. 

Environmental Action Plan: Develop a comprehensive action plan outlining steps to address a specific environmental challenge (e.g., marine pollution). Present your action plan in a detailed report, including timelines and budget considerations. 

Unit 24: Human Rights  

Objective: In this unit, students will explore human rights issues, including historical violations and contemporary challenges. They will examine the role of activists, organizations, and international efforts in promoting human rights. By the end of this unit, students should have a deep understanding of human rights advocacy in the region. 

Assignments: 

Human Rights Violations Report: Investigate a specific human rights violation that occurred around the world (e.g., disappeared activists during dictatorships). Create a comprehensive report documenting the events, victims, and impact on society. 

Human Rights Advocacy Campaign: Develop a human rights advocacy campaign focusing on a current issue in Latin America (e.g., indigenous rights). Design engaging campaign materials, including social media content, infographics, and petitions. 

Role-Play: Human Rights Activist: Choose a historical or contemporary human rights activist from Latin America (e.g., Rigoberta Menchú, Berta Cáceres) and prepare a role-play presentation, embodying their perspective, challenges, and achievements. 

Unit 25: Current Events 

Objective: This unit focuses on current events and contemporary challenges faced by Latin America. Students will analyze recent developments in the region, including political changes, social movements, and economic issues. By the end of this unit, students should be well-informed about current affairs in Latin America and their global significance. 

Assignments: 

Current Events Analysis: Select a recent Latin American news article or event and provide a detailed analysis of its background, causes, consequences, and potential future implications. Present your analysis in a concise report. 

Mock News Broadcast: Create a mock news broadcast presenting multiple current events from Latin America. Cover a variety of topics, such as political elections, protests, economic developments, and environmental issues. Prepare a compelling broadcast script. 

Policy Proposal: Imagine you are an advisor to a Latin American government. Develop a policy proposal addressing a pressing current issue in the region (e.g., immigration policies, healthcare reforms). Present your proposal in a detailed report, including implementation strategies. 

Interactive activities and learning path.

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