Middle School United States History, Part I - Semester Course

This course is a survey of the significant political, economic, social, cultural, and diplomatic developments in American history from the first civilizations through the mid-1800s.    Throughout the course, students will be given primary and secondary sources to analyze major themes in America's history such as the role of America in the world, migration, settlement, democracy, American culture, the changing face of American society, and national identity. Multiple viewpoints are presented.

Throughout the course, students will learn about the value of public service and the traits of good leaders.  Students will learn about history and explore themes of geography, economics, civic responsibility, and government.

Each week, the students will receive three to five assignments in Google Classroom.  This will help to prepare for the live class and increase your learner’s understanding.   

The live class will focus on exploring the theme for the week using interactive slides, storytelling, and lots of discussions.  I also like to include a game some weeks during this class to keep the students engaged. 

Students will also complete three projects throughout the semester.  Each project will be centered around one of the topics we are learning about. Students will have a variety of choices to choose from that matches their interests.  Examples of projects include:  making a short film, developing a virtual presentation, writing an essay, creating a game, conducting family interviews, conducting fashion reviews, creating a pamphlet, and many more. 

This class is designed to align with a typical 1/2 credit for middle school students.  Parents should refer to regulations surrounding this for their state.  

Course Outline:

Week One:  A:shiwi and Haudenosaunee - Cultural Diversity Amongst Tribal Nations
Week Two:  European Exploration and Settlement
Week Three:  The English Colonies in North America
Week Four: Life in the Colonies
Week Five:  Toward Independence
Week Six: The Declaration of Independence 
Week Seven:  The American Revolution
Week Eight: Creating the Constitution 
Week Nine: The Constitution
Week Ten: The Bill of Rights
Week Eleven: Political Developments in the Early Republic
Week Twelve: Foreign Affairs in the Young Nation
Week Thirteen: A Growing Sense of Nationhood
Week Fourteen: Andrew Jackson and the Growth of American Democracy
Week Fifteen: Manifest Destiny and the Growing Nation
Week Sixteen: Life in the West