Learners will immerse themselves in the complex tapestry of the Classical World (approx. 6th century BCE to the 6th century CE), an era defined by profound intellectual, cultural, and political developments. This comprehensive journey will take students through the foundational eras and territories that shaped the classical world.

Beginning with the ancient Greeks, learners will explore the origins of Western thought, the inception of democracy, and the genesis of the Olympic Games, delving into the city-state dynamics of Athens and Sparta. The course will also cover the extensive philosophical contributions, the engaging pantheon of Greek myths, and the intense era of warfare, highlighting pivotal conflicts such as the Greco-Persian Wars which underscored the resilience and strategic prowess of the Greeks against a formidable Persian Empire.

We will delve into the rise and achievements of Ancient Persia, focusing on key leaders such as Cyrus the Great, Darius I, and Xerxes I. They will uncover the administrative brilliance of Darius I, the architectural grandeur of Persepolis, and the significant cultural impact of Zoroastrianism. Through immersive activities, learners will gain a deep understanding of how the Persian Empire’s policies and innovations influenced the classical world and its interactions with neighboring civilizations.

Venturing into the grandeur of Rome, learners will explore the Republic's transformation into a mighty Empire, the era of peace known as the Pax Romana, and the lasting impact of Roman legal and engineering innovations. Through dynamic interactions, we will engage with the compelling saga of Julius Caesar, the awe-inspiring majesty of the Colosseum, and the rich tapestry of Roman mythology. Additionally, we will examine how Rome's vast conquests paved the way for the spread of Christianity, leaving a visible mark on the fabric of the classical world.

The course will also examine the rise of Islamic caliphates, starting with Prophet Muhammad’s influence on uniting Arab tribes and the rapid expansion under the early caliphs and the Umayyad period.

In the Indian subcontinent, the legacies of the Maurya and Gupta dynasties, the spread of Buddhism and Hinduism, and the grandeur of the Mughal Empire will be brought into focus, showcasing the region's rich contributions to global culture, religion, and art.

Lastly, the enduring histories of the Chinese dynasties from Han to Qing will be analyzed for their innovations in governance, contributions to world philosophy, and their impact on global trade and cultural exchanges along the Silk Road and beyond.

Overall, this course provides a comprehensive view of the Classical era, offering students a vivid panorama of its monumental developments and enduring legacies.

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-REFUND POLICY: I understand the appeal of booking in advance to secure a spot in classes, but I also acknowledge that circumstances may change. If you need to withdraw your learner for any reason up to ten days before the class's start date, I will gladly issue a full refund. Please don't hesitate to contact me in such cases. For inquiries regarding sibling discounts, please reach out for further assistance.

-In this class, active participation plays a crucial role in fostering meaningful engagement and learning. Learners are strongly encouraged to actively contribute to discussions, share their perspectives, and ask questions. Additionally, to promote critical thinking and facilitate in-class interactions, it's important to use the chat feature sparingly. While the chat is suitable for quick questions or clarifications, lengthy answers or discussions are best reserved for our face-to-face interactions.

-It is crucial for learners to be punctual and arrive on time for this class. While late arrivals will be allowed to join and participate from the moment they arrive, it is important to note that due to time constraints, we will not be able to restart simulations or catch up on activities for latecomers. To ensure the smooth progression of the class and maximize the learning experience for all participants, punctuality is strongly encouraged.
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Each week, learners will find all required materials posted in the classroom, with most being digital-friendly and a select few requiring printing.  For those who prefer not to print, PDFs will be available to view on your device. Although I aim to provide enough in-class time for activities, given time limits, several brief assignments will require independent completion. Understanding our learners' busy lives, I provide ample time, at least one week, for the completion of each task and extended notice for projects.

**Zombie Apocalypse: Constructing a Civilization with Classical Elements 
In this unique and engaging project, learners will confront the challenge of surviving a post-apocalyptic world overrun by zombies, using the best elements from classical civilizations. Drawing on their studies of the Greeks, Romans, Persians, Kievan Rus, Byzantines, Islamic Civilizations, Indian Civilizations & China, learners will creatively select the most effective aspects of these societies to design a resilient and thriving civilization.

Please note: The specific requirements and guidelines for both projects will be provided in class.
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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:

Homeschool Middle School Ancient World History
Homeschool Middle School Classical Era: Greece, Rome & Beyond
Homeschool Middle School Medieval World History
Homeschool Middle School Early Modern World History
Homeschool Middle School Modern World History
Homeschool Middle School 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.

***Note on Teaching Style and Learner Participation:
This class thrives on active student interaction and participation. The teaching methods, including simulations and critical thinking activities, are designed to engage and inspire. However, the success of these interactive sessions largely depends on learner involvement. Should active participation prove challenging, we may transition to a lecture format to ensure all essential material is thoroughly covered. I encourage all learners to join in, share their thoughts, and contribute to a dynamic learning environment, making the educational journey enriching for everyone.