Homeschool Middle School Modern World History: Industry & Age of World Wars
Is getting your learner excited about modern history harder than sparking a revolution? This full-curriculum journey takes them from the Industrial Revolution to WWII with immersive simulations & creative projects—no factory work required!
What's included
16 live meetings
16 in-class hoursHomework
1 hour per week. Weekly materials will be 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. Brief, independent assignments will often extend outside classroom time due to our packed agenda. Every learner will get at least one week to complete assignments and will receive advanced notice for larger projects. Homework, necessary for a deeper understanding, will be light—expect about 30 to 60 minutes per week. It's important to note that learners have varying speeds and styles of learning, and this may reflect in the time taken to complete tasks. Completing these assignments diligently on one's own time will not only reinforce the material discussed in class but will also prepare learners for more engaging and productive class experience. For digital worksheets, please refer to the 'Materials' section, which contains a list of third-party websites where they can be accessed.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
Upon request learners can opt to receive grades and/or feedback. In the absence of a specific request for grades, only feedback will be provided.Progress Report
Upon request learners can opt to receive grades and/or feedback. In the absence of a specific request for grades, only feedback will be provided.Class Experience
US Grade 6 - 8
Does your learner think history is just a list of dates and battles? Let them step into the story instead! In this engaging course, learners won’t just study history—they’ll experience it. From simulating the chaos of the Russian Revolution to debating appeasement strategies on the eve of World War II, they’ll step into the shoes of those who lived through history’s most transformative moments. Through hands-on activities like simulating the growth of an industrial town—seeing firsthand the effects of rapid change—analyzing the Treaty of Versailles as one of the Big Four, and serving as jurors in the Nuremberg Trials, learners will actively engage with history. They'll even predict Hitler’s moves as foreign policy advisors and complete the Peep-Into History: Modern Diorama Project to bring key events to life. As they navigate the Industrial Revolution, Imperialism, two World Wars, and the rise of ideologies that defined the 20th century, learners will hone critical thinking, collaboration, and decision-making skills. By the end, they’ll not only understand history—they’ll feel empowered by it. This course is perfect for curious minds ready to explore, create, and challenge their perspectives on the past while building connections to the present. ******************************************************** *Heads-Up: This Class is NOT a Spectator Sport! This isn’t your typical sit-back-and-zone-out history class—your learner is part of the action! Whether we’re diving into simulations, debates, or critical-thinking challenges, their participation is what makes this class engaging, exciting, and, well… not just another lecture! That said, if participation turns into radio silence, we’ll have to shift into a lecture-style format to ensure all key material is covered. But let’s be real—that’s way less fun. So, encourage your learner to jump in, share their thoughts, make decisions, and engage! The more they put into this experience, the more they'll get out of it (and the less likely we are to drift into Lecture Land). **Another Heads-Up: Punctuality Matters! This class runs on engagement and interaction, so arriving on time is key! While late arrivals are always welcome to jump in, we won’t be able to restart simulations or backtrack on missed activities—there’s just too much to cover. To get the most out of the experience (and avoid feeling lost mid-simulation), being on time is strongly encouraged. Help your learner hit the ground running from the start—it makes for a smoother, more immersive class for everyone! ***Be Prepared & Ready to Dive In! Each week, all required materials will be posted in the classroom—most are digital-friendly, with a few that may need printing. If printing isn’t your thing, no worries! PDFs can be easily viewed on your device. Bringing materials to class ensures a smooth, engaging experience—so have everything ready, and let’s make history come alive! ****On a More Serious Note: Refunds & Flexibility I get it—plans change! While booking in advance secures your learner’s spot, sometimes schedules shift. If you need to withdraw your learner up to ten days before the class starts, I’m happy to issue a full refund—no hassle, no stress. Just reach out, and I’ll take care of it. For questions about sibling discounts or other inquiries, feel free to contact me—I’m always happy to help! ******************************************************** Want a Self-Paced Class Option? This course is also offered as a self-paced class! Check it out here: https://outschool.com/classes/self-paced-homeschool-modern-world-history-industry-to-world-wars-Uswxh5ZJ Which Course Should You Take First? 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: Early Civilizations 🏛 Homeschool Middle School Ancient World History: Classical Era ⚔️ Homeschool Middle School Medieval World History: Europe, Asia & the Islamic World 🎨 Homeschool Middle School Early Modern World History: Renaissance to Revolutions 🌍 Homeschool Middle School Modern World History: Industry to World Wars 🛰️ Homeschool Modern World History: Cold War Era & Beyond Following this order helps learners see the evolution of ideas, societies, and historical events over time, creating a cohesive and engaging learning experience. That said, you’re free to start wherever fits your interests and learning goals—history should be flexible and fun!
Learning Goals
Embark on exploring the Industrial Revolution, which revolutionized society through technological breakthroughs and the factory system.
Discuss economic theories, social reforms, and political movements spurred by this era.
Explore European imperialism's impact on distant lands and its effects on local societies and traditions. Investigate how Western powers influenced China and Japan, reshaping their futures.
Syllabus
Curriculum
Follows Teacher-Created CurriculumStandards
Aligned with State-Specific Standards16 Lessons
over 16 WeeksLesson 1:
Industrial Revolution & Innovations
Embark on an exploration of the Industrial Revolution's breakthroughs, which launched an era of unprecedented technological progress and altered human society forever.
60 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
Industrial Revolution & Effects
Examine how the advent of the factory system revolutionized daily life and labor, prompting significant societal shifts.
60 mins online live lesson
Lesson 3:
Industrial Ideologies & Reform
Discuss the range of economic theories, social reforms, and political movements that arose in response to the industrial age's transformative impact.
60 mins online live lesson
Lesson 4:
Imperialism: Motives & Consequences
Explore why European countries sought to control lands far from their own and examine how this quest affected the people, societies, and traditions they encountered.
60 mins online live lesson
Other Details
Parental Guidance
The study of world history encompasses a wide range of historical topics, including sensitive subjects such as war, slavery, racism, religion, and genocide. It is important to note that religion will only be discussed within its historical context, focusing on its impact on historical events and societies.
To provide a comprehensive understanding of these topics, learners will be exposed to multiple perspectives through the use of peer-reviewed and scholarly sources. This approach encourages learners to critically analyze and reflect on the history of modern conflicts, security issues, religion, and economics. These discussions will be actively moderated by the teacher, ensuring an unbiased and secular standpoint is maintained throughout the learning process.
Furthermore, the course will place emphasis on exploring viewpoints from marginalized groups whenever relevant and applicable. This inclusion allows learners to gain a broader understanding of historical events and their impact on different communities.
In presenting this content, great care will be taken to ensure that it is age appropriate. The material will be tailored to the developmental level of the students, ensuring that it is presented in a sensitive and respectful manner.
By fostering critical thinking, providing diverse perspectives, and presenting content in an age-appropriate manner, the course aims to create a supportive and inclusive learning environment where learners can engage with sensitive historical topics in a responsible and informed manner.
Supply List
To participate effectively in this course, students will need the following materials: 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 or accessing digital documents. Note: If using hard copy printouts, it is strongly suggested to have a folder or binder for organization. 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. For digital worksheets, please refer to the 'Materials' section, which contains a list of third-party websites where they can be accessed. In addition, for our upcoming PEEPs Diorama Project, please consider the following supplies: Peeps: You can find these marshmallow treats available for purchase on platforms like Amazon or similar websites. They will be used as figures in your diorama. Shoe box or slightly larger box: Find a suitable box that will serve as the base for your diorama scene. A shoe box or a box of similar size will work well. Construction paper: Use construction paper to design and create the background scene for your diorama. You can cut and shape it according to your chosen historical event. Scissors: Make sure to have a pair of scissors for cutting out shapes and figures as needed for your diorama. Markers and/or crayons: These coloring tools will allow you to add detail and color to your diorama scene. Tape: Keep some tape handy for securing different elements of your diorama together. Thread: Thread can be used to hang certain objects or create suspension within your diorama. Paste: Having paste or glue will be useful for attaching elements together, such as paper or small objects. Please ensure that you have these supplies available to fully participate in our engaging activities and projects.
1 file available upon enrollment
Language of Instruction
English
External Resources
In addition to the Outschool classroom, this class uses:
Sources
A History of the World by Andrew Marr
The Last Ottoman Generation and the Making of the Modern Middle East by Michael Provence
The Middle East: A Brief History of the Last 2,000 Years by Bernard Lewis
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
Live Group Course
$19
weekly1x per week, 16 weeks
60 min
Completed by 68 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 11-14
4-8 learners per class