LIVE: Early Greece and Rome to the First Global Age: EVERYTHING to Know!

In this course, students will explore the major developments in world history, from early civilizations to the Renaissance. The overarching focus will be on historical thinking skills and how ancient civilizations like Greece and Rome contributed to governance, law, culture, and technology that continue to shape the modern world. The class will also cover topics such as the fall of the Roman Empire, the rise of feudalism in Europe and Asia, the Mongol conquests, the Islamic Golden Age, the Crusades, the Renaissance, the Scientific Revolution, and the Reformation. Additionally, we will delve into the global consequences of exploration, trade, and cultural diffusion, including the impact of the Columbian Exchange.

The course is designed to be structured around thematic modules, each emphasizing key historical periods and events, progressing from ancient times through the Middle Ages and into the Renaissance and early modern world. The class will take a student-centered approach, where learners work through self-paced units that allow them to engage deeply with each topic while demonstrating their understanding through creative and hands-on projects. While the course is self-paced, regular weekly check-ins with me will ensure that students are progressing appropriately, and I will provide feedback and guidance.

My teaching style is highly interactive, focusing on engaging students with the material in ways that encourage critical thinking and application. Instead of relying on traditional quizzes and tests, students will complete "Evidence of Mastery" activities for each unit, where they will demonstrate their learning through presentations, essays, creative digital projects, and discussions. These activities will be designed to allow students to apply what they’ve learned in ways that feel relevant and personal to them, encouraging a deeper connection to the content. I aim to foster an environment where students feel supported and empowered to explore history in innovative ways, blending traditional historical study with modern technology.

Students will have various opportunities to interact with me through a mix of virtual formats. In addition to the weekly check-ins, which will serve as a primary mode for discussion and clarification, I will offer additional touchpoints through video lectures, slideshows, and multimedia content. There will be interactive games and activities that challenge students to apply their knowledge in novel ways, such as debates, mock historical scenarios, and creative projects like skits, podcasts, and documentaries. While these tasks allow for independent work, our discussions during check-ins will give students opportunities to reflect on their learning and think critically about the course material.