Barclay and Aldworth (US History)

Course Introduction:

I. Welcome! As you may already know United States History is a course requirement for graduation from this high school. This course will be a survey of American history with emphasis on developing the analytical and communication skills that are essential to success in higher education and professional life. We will study political, social, and economic aspects of past American society. Due to the expansiveness of the material, much of our study will be cursory, though we will delve into key subjects in great detail.

II. Instructional Methods

Class activities will be varied in an effort to both reach all learning types as well as help develop skills in those styles with which you may feel less confident. Typically, a unit will begin with a theme-based introduction to the material followed by a more in-depth study in the following days. Activities will include group work, lecture, primary source analysis, multi-media presentations, simulations, etc. Units will conclude with an overall review, test review, and assessment.

There are a number of instructional methods that I will use to help you achieve this goal. Concurrent to learning the subject matter of U.S. History, I will help guide you in how to think, write, and act like a historian. Historians constantly strive to improve their knowledge of the past by reading and analyzing various primary and secondary sources—writings, music/song, art, film, political cartoons, clothing styles/dress, and even ideas. Can you think of other possible sources that historians might use to interpret our past? Keep in mind, history is not just about words on paper! As a student, you will be responsible for monitoring your own understanding of the material and completing the requirements for course graduation.

III. Expected Learning Outcomes:
· Understand major trends in US History, using relevant details to support this comprehension
· Recognize human interaction with the environment
· Analyze American society throughout its history
· Cultivate analytical, interpersonal, literacy and reflective skills
· Develop and effectively communicate an academic argument