(Self-Paced) Homeschool Medieval World History
What's included
10 pre-recorded lessons
average 42 mins per video10 weeks
of teacher support7 hrs 5 mins
total video learning hours1 year access
to the contentHomework
2-4 hours per week. As learners are exploring the various key events in the early modern world, homework will be assigned that is specific to the topic that was covered in class. Learners can generally expect to spend about an hour or two a week on homework (in addition to watching the videos and completing optional activities), some assignments will require less of the learner. Some learners may be eager to spend more than that on their Medieval Moments Project but it is not required or expected. All assignments and activities are focused on supplementing the learner's understanding of the various events and are broken down into specific, manageable tasks. It's important to note that students have varying speeds and styles of learning, and this may reflect in the time taken to complete tasks.Assessment
Upon request and prior to the start of the course, assessments can be conducted throughout the course to evaluate learner progress and understanding. These assessments may include quizzes, tests, projects, feedback and/or other forms of evaluation (i.e. letter grade). Parents and learners are encouraged to discuss their grading preferences with the teacher. The purpose of assessments and grades is to provide feedback on student learning and measure their achievement. It is important for learners to actively participate in assessments and seek feedback to gauge their progress and areas of improvement. Furthermore, a detailed rubric will be provided specifically for the project. This rubric will serve as a guideline to assess and evaluate the quality and creativity of the learners' project. It will outline the criteria and expectations, ensuring transparency and fairness in the assessment process. Learners will have a clear understanding of the criteria by which their projects will be evaluated, allowing them to strive for excellence in their projects.Letter Grade
includedProgress Report
includedClass Experience
US Grade 7 - 10
In this comprehensive SELF-PACED/ASYNCHRONOUS medieval world history course (approx. 476 CE - 1500 CE), learners will navigate the intricacies of European feudalism, marvel at the Islamic Golden Age's intellectual accomplishments, study the disciplined society of Japanese samurai, and examine the pivotal changes brought by Chinese dynasties. Additionally, the curriculum will explore the vast influence of the Mongol Empire and delve into the Vikings' remarkable explorations and societal structures. Learners will trace Europe's transition from feudal splintering to the emergence of nation-states, unraveling the decisive religious and political shifts that defined modern boundaries. Key historical moments like the Reconquista, the Hundred Years' War, and the War of the Roses will be examined for their lasting effects on culture and identity. The curriculum delves into the Golden Age of Islam, showcasing the era's unprecedented cultural, scientific, and economic advances achieved by caliphates and dynasties such as the Abbasids, Umayyads, Fatimids, Almoravids, and Almohads. This exploration includes the era's intellectual and artistic output, which heavily influenced global development and laid the foundations for the Renaissance. The transformative Crusades and the Black Plague's devastating effects will be investigated, as will the sophisticated societies of Mesoamerica and the powerful West African empires, highlighting the breadth of human ingenuity and resilience. Through this course, learners will develop a deep appreciation for the monumental shifts that shaped the medieval era and the enduring legacy of civilizations that still echo in the contemporary world. THERE ARE NO LIVE MEETINGS, but learners will receive direct feedback on their work each week. Each week focuses on a different medieval event, civilization or empire. At the beginning of each week an introductory video will be posted to the classroom along with supplemental written and visual handouts. Interactive activities for learners to complete and post to the classroom will be posted each week as well. These activities will be specific to the week's topic, but will include challenges and activities surrounding each period. Both learners and teacher will interact virtually, providing encouraging, constructive feedback on shared posted work. After completing activities and assignments, learners will receive regular feedback from me before moving on to the next topic. I will be available for office hours and meetings throughout the course by appointment according to your time zone. This medieval world history class is a great companion to your homeschooling experience or utilized as a full homeschool curriculum for late middle school or early high school. Overall, the course would provide a comprehensive view of Medieval World History from approximately 476 CE, traditionally marked by the fall of the Western Roman Empire, to the end of the 15th century, which is often considered the end of the Middle Ages and the beginning of the Renaissance and the Age of Discovery. **Medieval Moments Project To demonstrate their grasp of the Medieval tapestry that includes Europe, Japan, and China, the expansive domains of the Mongol Empire, the intellectual zenith of the Golden Age of Islam, the intricate civilizations of Mesoamerica, and the majestic empires of West Africa, learners will engage in a creative project. They will craft an expressive short story, graphic novel, comic strip, or a series of memes that bring to life the distinctive features, daily experiences, and rich heritage of their chosen culture or empire. *As an alternative to the Medieval Moments Project and for those who prefer a hands-on approach, the PEEPS Diorama Project presents an engaging alternative to the Medieval Moments Project. In this imaginative assignment, learners will craft a miniature, three-dimensional representation of a significant event from Medieval World History using PEEPS candies. After choosing an event that resonates with their interests, learners will draw upon classroom resources and with adult permission - additional internet resources, to brainstorm and plan their dioramas. I will offer support throughout this process, providing feedback and helping to polish their concepts. With teacher and/or adult approval secured for their project topic, learners will then move forward to create their PEEPS diorama, encapsulating the historical moment they have selected. This project offers a unique opportunity for learners to engage with history in a creative and hands-on manner, and I look forward to witnessing their imaginative interpretations come to life. Please note: The specific requirements and guidelines for both projects will be provided in class. This class is also offered as a live class, you can view that class here: https://outschool.com/classes/homeschool-middle-school-medieval-world-history-RKW5sIbo While my courses can be taken in any order based on individual preferences and needs, I would highly recommend taking them in chronological order. This sequencing allows for a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter and enhances the learning experience. Therefore, I suggest following this chronological order for optimal learning: (Self-Paced) Homeschool Ancient World History (Self-Paced) Homeschool Classical Era: Greece, Rome & Beyond (Self-Paced) Homeschool Medieval World History (Self-Paced) Homeschool Early Modern World History (Self-Paced) Homeschool Modern World History (Self-Paced) Homeschool Cold War Era & Beyond By following this chronological order, learners can gradually build upon their knowledge and develop a well-rounded understanding of the subject matter. They can trace the evolution of ideas, events, and societies over time, which fosters a more coherent and interconnected understanding of the subject. However, I understand that individual circumstances and preferences may influence the order in which courses are taken. Ultimately, it is important to choose the sequencing that aligns best with your learning goals and interests.
Learning Goals
Explore the decline of the Western Roman Empire, Charlemagne's influence, the Viking Age, feudalism, the medieval Church, and key historical events in England, France, Spain, and Russia.
Analyze the Magna Carta, Hundred Years' War, Crusades, Reconquista, Black Plague, and War of the Roses.
Syllabus
Curriculum
Follows Teacher-Created CurriculumStandards
Aligned with State-Specific Standards10 Lessons
over 10 WeeksLesson 1:
Invasions From Every Corner, Vikings & Birth of Feudalism
Examine the 'Barbarian Invasions' during the Western Roman Empire's decline, including causes, invading groups, and their impact on Rome.
Study Charlemagne's rise to power, his imperial coronation, and his lasting influence on Europe's politics and culture.
Understand the Viking Age, its timeline, regions of presence, social hierarchy, and maritime innovations such as the longship.
Learn about Viking religious practices and their roles as both raiders and traders in cultural exchanges.
108 mins of video lessons
Lesson 2:
Feudalism, Manor Life & the Roman Catholic Church
Grasp the development of feudalism in medieval Europe, its social order, and the power dynamics between different classes, from peasants to kings.
Understand feudal contracts and the reciprocal obligations they entailed, the economic ties within the system, and the layout and governance of a medieval manor.
Understand the structure, authority and influence of the medieval Church as well as the balance between religious and secular power.
78 mins of video lessons
Lesson 3:
Golden Age of Islam & West African Empires
Introduce the Abbasid, Umayyad (in Spain), and Fatimid caliphates, focusing on their capitals and cultural significance.Explore the Golden Age of Islam, focusing on the Abbasid caliphate.
Investigate scientific and cultural advancements, economic structures, and their global impact.
Study the Ghana, Mali, and Songhai empires, their trade networks, leaders, agricultural methods, and cultural legacies.
48 mins of video lessons
Lesson 4:
The Crusades, Reconquista & Spanish Inquisition
Understand the causes and key Crusades, and their broad impact on Europe and the Middle East.
Comprehend the Reconquista, its timeline, and the Christian realms involved.
20 mins of video lessons
Other Details
Parental Guidance
The study of world history encompasses a wide range of topics, including some sensitive subjects from the past such as war, slavery, racism, religion, and genocide. In this course, it is important to approach these topics with sensitivity and respect.
Religion will be discussed solely in its historical context, focusing on its influence on societies and events throughout history. The aim is to provide learners with an understanding of how religion shaped various civilizations without promoting any particular religious beliefs.
To foster a comprehensive understanding, learners will be exposed to multiple perspectives through the use of peer-reviewed and scholarly sources. Critical and reflective thinking will be encouraged, allowing students to analyze historical events, conflicts, security issues, religious influences, and economic factors from different angles.
Discussions in the classroom will be closely moderated, ensuring a balanced and unbiased approach. The teacher will facilitate discussions, encourage participation, and monitor the conversations to maintain a secular standpoint that respects all viewpoints.
When relevant, viewpoints from marginalized groups will be explored, providing a broader understanding of history from different social, cultural, and ethnic perspectives. This approach promotes inclusivity and helps learners develop empathy and a deeper appreciation for diverse experiences.
Great care will be taken to present the content in an age-appropriate manner, ensuring that the material is accessible, respectful, and suitable for the maturity level of the learners.
Supply List
Paper: It is recommended to have both construction or colored paper for creative projects and regular paper for written assignments. Pen/Pencil: Essential tools for note-taking, completing assignments, and engaging in activities. Crayons/Markers/Colored Pencils: These coloring tools will be useful for visual projects and adding creativity to assignments. Printer: Access to a printer is required for printing out resources provided by the teacher. Dice: A physical set of dice, an app that allows for dice rolls, or access to a virtual dice roller online will be used for specific activities and simulations. Additionally, for the PEEP Diorama Project, you may need the following supplies: Peeps: These can be purchased online from websites like Amazon or similar platforms. They will be used as figures in your diorama. Shoe box or slightly larger box: Select a suitable box as the base for creating your diorama. Construction paper: Use construction paper to design the background scene of your diorama. Scissors: You will need scissors for cutting out shapes, figures, and other elements for your diorama. Markers and/or crayons: Use markers or crayons to add color and detail to your diorama. Tape: Secure various components of your diorama using tape. Thread: Thread can be used to suspend or hang objects within your diorama if needed. Paste: This can be useful for attaching small objects or pieces of paper to your diorama.
1 file available upon enrollment
External Resources
In addition to the Outschool classroom, this class uses:
Teacher expertise and credentials
Alabama Teaching Certificate in Social Studies/History
Master's Degree in Education from University of Montevallo
I hold a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science with a concentration in Comparative Politics. My academic journey included a wide range of courses focusing on various political and historical aspects of civilizations from different time periods and regions around the world. This comprehensive study allowed me to develop a deep understanding of the complexities of past and present societies.
Furthermore, I pursued a Master of Education degree specializing in Secondary Social Sciences, which provided me with advanced knowledge in teaching history, political science, and related subjects. I obtained certification from the state of Alabama, qualifying me to teach social sciences to students in grades 7-12.
Over the course of my teaching career, I have gained extensive experience instructing students in US and World history; dedicated to delivering engaging and informative lessons in these subjects. Additionally, I have conducted extensive research in both history and politics for over 20+ years, allowing me to stay informed and up-to-date with the latest developments in these fields.
My educational background, teaching experience, and research expertise have equipped me with the necessary skills and knowledge to provide students with a comprehensive and engaging learning experience. I am committed to fostering a deeper understanding of historical events and political dynamics while encouraging critical thinking and a passion for learning in my learners.
Reviews
Self-Paced Course
$15
weekly or $150 for all content10 pre-recorded lessons
10 weeks of teacher support
Choose your start date
1 year of access to the content
Completed by 21 learners
Choose your start date
Ages: 12-16