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Exploring the Western Hemisphere: Civilizations, Cultures, and Connections

Explore the rich history, geography, and economics of the Western Hemisphere! This interactive course engages students with hands-on activities, critical thinking, and connections to modern life.
Rick Hudgel
Average rating:
5.0
Number of reviews:
(22)
Class

What's included

18 pre-recorded lessons
17 weeks
of teacher support
1 year access
to the content
Mastery Evaluation
1-2 hours per week. Evidence of Mastery
Grading
Evidence of Mastery

Class Experience

US Grade 4 - 7
Beginner Level
What will be taught?
Students will learn about the civilizations, cultures, geography, and economics of the Western Hemisphere, focusing on historical thinking, geographic tools, cultural diversity, and economic principles.

What topics will you cover?
Chronological timelines using B.C./A.D. and B.C.E./C.E.
Early civilizations of the Americas (Maya, Inca, Aztec, Mississippian)
Effects of European exploration and colonization
Geographic tools and concepts like latitude, longitude, and climate
Regional characteristics, human-environment interaction, and cultural diversity
Economic principles including trade, specialization, and financial literacy
How is your class structured?
The course is structured into thematic units, each with three lessons per week over 12 weeks. Each unit combines lectures, interactive activities, hands-on projects, and assessments to ensure a comprehensive learning experience.

How will you teach?
I will use a variety of methods including live lectures, engaging slides, video clips, hands-on projects, and interactive activities. Students will have access to digital tools like virtual maps and timelines, as well as real-world simulations.

What's your teaching style?
My teaching style is dynamic, engaging, and interactive. I blend storytelling with critical thinking activities to foster curiosity and keep students actively involved. Humor and relatable examples are incorporated to connect with pre-teens.

How much will learners get to interact with you?
Students will engage with me during live discussions, guided activities, and Q&A sessions. Interactive games and group activities will allow frequent collaboration, while individual feedback on assignments and projects ensures personalized support.

Learning Goals

Apply the conventions of B.C.E. and C.E. or B.C. and A.D. to arrange and analyze events in chronological order.
Compare characteristics of early Indian civilizations (governments, social structures, religions, technologies, and agricultural practices and products).
learning goal

Syllabus

Curriculum
Follows Teacher-Created Curriculum
Standards
Aligned with State-Specific Standards
18 Lessons
over 17 Weeks
Lesson 1:
Introduction to Timelines
 Purpose and structure of single-tier timelines. 
Lesson 2:
B.C./A.D. and B.C.E./C.E.
 Understanding dating systems; no year "0." 
Lesson 3:
Overview of the Maya Civilization
 Government, religion, and technology. 
Lesson 4:
The Inca Empire
 Social structure, agriculture, and technology. 

Other Details

Learning Needs
This class can accommodate most learning needs using technological interventions.
Parental Guidance
As always, parents are welcome to view the materials and provide feedback to the instructor if necessary. If you would like to add private one-on-one sessions throughout this course, please let the instructor know upon enrollment.
Supply List
All content will be provided. Students may need pencil and paper, access to Google Docs.
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Sources
Beck, R. B., Black, L., Krieger, L., Naylor, C., & Shabaka, D. (2012). World history: Patterns of interaction. McGraw-Hill Education. National Geographic Society. (n.d.). Mapmaker interactive. National Geographic. Retrieved from https://mapmaker.nationalgeographic.org/ Mann, C. C. (2005). 1491: New revelations of the Americas before Columbus. Vintage Books. Khan Academy. (n.d.). World history and geography resources. Retrieved from https://www.khanacademy.org/ Ohio Department of Education. (2019). Ohio’s Learning Standards and Model Curriculum: Social Studies, Grade 5. Retrieved from https://education.ohio.gov
Joined August, 2024
5.0
22reviews
Profile
Teacher expertise and credentials
Ohio Teaching Certificate
Ohio Teaching Certificate in Social Studies/History
Bachelor's degree in Integrated Social Studies
Master's degree in Educational Leadership and Administration

Reviews

Self-Paced Course
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$18

weekly or $300 for all content
18 pre-recorded lessons
17 weeks of teacher support
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1 year of access to the content

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Ages: 9-14

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