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Homeschool Summer Series || Ancient World History

Discover ancient civilizations: from the Paleolithic & Neolithic eras to the civilizations of Mesopotamia, Egypt, Kush, Nubia, China, India, Phoenicia, Israel, and the Aegean. Perfect for active & hands-on learners!
Janelle Hopkins, M.Ed - World & US History
Average rating:
4.9
Number of reviews:
(347)
Star Educator
Class

What's included

15 live meetings
15 in-class hours
Homework
1-2 hours 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.
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
Learners will embark on an extensive journey through ancient history, starting from the dawn of civilization around the Paleolithic era and extending to about 800-700 BCE, on the cusp of Classical Greece. The exploration begins by tracing human evolution from the nomadic lifestyles of the Paleolithic era through the transformative agricultural revolution of the Neolithic period. This sets the stage for investigating the advanced societies of Mesopotamia, delving into the contributions of the Sumerians, Akkadians, and Babylonians. We will examine their pioneering advancements in areas such as writing, law, and urban governance.

The course then delves into the marvels of ancient Egypt, where we examine everything from pyramid construction to the Nile's critical role in supporting this vibrant civilization. Special emphasis is placed on the interactions with and contributions of the neighboring kingdoms of Kush and Nubia, highlighting their significant cultural and military influences. The exploration continues eastward to ancient China and India, where we'll study philosophical advancements and military strategies alongside profound religious and cultural developments.

Additionally, we will explore the religious legacies of the Israelite kingdoms and their lasting impact on Western culture. Our journey will also include the Aegean Civilizations, particularly the Minoans and Mycenaeans, known for their artistic innovations and complex societal structures that foreshadow the rise of classical Greece.

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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.

**Ancient Civilizations Theme Park Project
To showcase their comprehension of classical civilizations, learners will undertake the exciting task of designing an Ancient Civilizations Theme Park. Each learner will create a section of their theme park dedicated to four of the civilizations: Mesopotamia, Indus Valley, Egyptian, Chinese, Israel, Phoenicia, Minoan or Mycenaean. Learners will creatively craft rides, restaurants, attractions, and concession stands that authentically capture the spirit and essence of the respective 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 & 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.
Learning Goals
Investigate early human tool creation, societal evolution, and the impacts of the agricultural revolution. 
Chart early human migrations and adaptations, outlining the origins of Homo sapiens.
Explore Mesopotamia's geography, civilizations, and the GRAPES framework. 
Investigate Sumerian, Akkadian, and Babylonian achievements, and Mesopotamian legal systems.
learning goal

Syllabus

Curriculum
Follows Teacher-Created Curriculum
Standards
Aligned with State-Specific Standards
15 Lessons
over 5 Weeks
Lesson 1:
Paleolithic Societies: Early Humans
 Investigate the creation and use of early human tools and their impact on societal evolution, describe the social organization of hunter-gatherer societies, and evaluate the effects of the agricultural revolution on early human settlement development.
Learn about different dating systems.
Outline the origins and defining characteristics of early humans. 
60 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
Neolithic Societies: Tribes to Villages
 Chart the initial migrations of early humans, their environmental adaptations, and global dispersal.
Understand the concepts of villages, city-states and civilizations and their defining characteristics. 
60 mins online live lesson
Lesson 3:
Villages to City-States
 Analyze the geography of Mesopotamia, including cities, civilizations, and geographic features.
Investigate the GRAPES framework, which incorporates geography, religion, achievements, politics, economics and society as key components of ancient Mesopotamian civilizations.
Investigate and outline Sumerian, Akkadian and Babylonian achievements. 
60 mins online live lesson
Lesson 4:
Mesopotamian Civilizations
 Investigate the GRAPES framework, which incorporates geography, religion, achievements, politics, economics and society as key components of ancient Mesopotamian civilizations.
Investigate and outline Sumerian, Akkadian and Babylonian achievements.
Examine the purpose of laws in Mesopotamia and compare them to modern-day legal systems. 
60 mins online live lesson

Other Details

Parental Guidance
The study of world history encompasses a wide range of topics, including those that are sensitive in nature, such as war, slavery, racism, religion, and genocide. It is important to note that discussions on religion will solely focus on its historical context. Throughout the course, learners will be exposed to diverse perspectives using reputable sources that have been peer-reviewed and are of scholarly nature. Students will be actively encouraged to engage in critical thinking and reflection, particularly when it comes to topics related to ancient conflicts, religion, and economics. To ensure a fair and impartial environment, discussions will be moderated by the teacher, who will adopt an unbiased and secular standpoint. Where applicable, the course will strive to explore viewpoints from marginalized groups, shedding light on often underrepresented perspectives and narratives. It is important to clarify that this course does not seek to endorse or promote any specific dating system. Instead, it aims to cultivate an appreciation for the various approaches and interpretations of time measurement and chronology. As an educator, I am dedicated to presenting the course content in an age-appropriate manner, taking into consideration the sensitivity and maturity levels of the students. The utmost care will be taken to deliver the material in a manner that is respectful, inclusive, and conducive to the learning experience.
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 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.

Additionally, for the Ancient Civilizations Theme Park Project, you MAY need the following supplies:
Learners should use their lesson handouts from class, the internet and print sources to research their chosen classical civilizations.  For the project, you can use poster board, construction paper, art materials, printed pictures, colored pencils and markers, scissors and glue.  3D & digital presentations are also allowed.

Please ensure that you have these supplies available to fully participate in our engaging activities and projects.
External Resources
In addition to the Outschool classroom, this class uses:
4.9
347reviews
Star Educator
Profile
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.

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Live Group Course
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$284

for 15 classes
3x per week, 5 weeks
60 min

Live video meetings
Ages: 11-14
3-8 learners per class

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