Outschool
Open currency, time zone, and language settings
Log In

(Self-Paced) Homeschool Modern World History: Industry to 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!
Janelle Hopkins M.Ed - World History
Average rating:
4.9
Number of reviews:
(364)
Star Educator
Popular
Class

What's included

10 pre-recorded lessons
average 25 mins per video
10 weeks
of teacher support
4 hrs 15 mins
total video learning hours
1 year access
to the content
Homework
2-4 hours per week. As learners are exploring the various key events in the early modern world, homework will be assigned that is specific to the topic that was covered in class. Learners can generally expect to spend about an hour or two a week on homework (in addition to watching the videos and completing optional activities), some assignments will require less of the learner. Some learners may be eager to spend more than that on their PEEPs Diorama Project but it is not required or expected. All assignments and activities are focused on supplementing the learner's understanding of the various events and are broken down into specific, manageable tasks. It's important to note that students have varying speeds and styles of learning, and this may reflect in the time taken to complete tasks.
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
included

Class Experience

US Grade 7 - 10
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.

Peep-Into History Diorama Project**
Learners will have the option to undertake the Peep-Into History Diorama Project. A diorama, defined as a life-size, three-dimensional scene from nature or history, will be recreated on a PEEP scale for this project. Learners will select an event from this era of US history that they have studied and utilize the resources provided in class to gather ideas for their project. I will be available to provide guidance, suggestions, and help students refine their ideas. Once learners have gained teacher and/or adult approval for their chosen event, they will proceed to construct a diorama representing the selected event. This project offers a unique opportunity for students to engage with history in a creative and hands-on manner, and I look forward to witnessing their imaginative interpretations come to life.

Please note: The specific requirements and guidelines for both projects will be provided in class.
**********************************************
This class is also offered as a live class, you can view that class here: 
https://outschool.com/classes/flex-homeschool-modern-world-history-Uswxh5ZJ

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:

(Self-Paced) Homeschool Ancient World History
(Self-Paced) Homeschool Classical Era: Greece, Rome & Beyond
(Self-Paced) Homeschool Medieval World History
(Self-Paced) Homeschool Early Modern World History
(Self-Paced) Homeschool Modern World History
(Self-Paced) Homeschool 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.

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.
learning goal

Syllabus

Curriculum
Follows Teacher-Created Curriculum
Standards
Aligned with State-Specific Standards
10 Lessons
over 10 Weeks
Lesson 1:
Industrial Revolution: Innovations & Effects
 Embark on an exploration of the Industrial Revolution's breakthroughs, which launched an era of unprecedented technological progress and altered human society forever. 
Examine how the advent of the factory system revolutionized daily life and labor, prompting significant societal shifts. 
14 mins of video lessons
Lesson 2:
Industrial Revolution: Ideologies & Reform
 Discuss the range of economic theories, social reforms, and political movements that arose in response to the industrial age's transformative impact. 
14 mins of video lessons
Lesson 3:
Imperial Expansion & Its Consequences
 Investigate how Western powers imposed trade and influence on China and Japan, reshaping these nations' futures. 
13 mins of video lessons
Lesson 4:
World War I: Catalysts
 Explore the triggers and major incidents that led to the outbreak of World War I and understand how alliances pulled various countries into the fray, leading to widespread loss of life. 
Evaluate the critical roles of leaders like Wilson, Lloyd George, Clemenceau, Kaiser Wilhelm, and Tsar Nicholas II, and assess the impact of strategic battles including the Somme, Verdun, and Marne. 
23 mins of video lessons

Other Details

Parental Guidance
The study of world history encompasses a wide range of topics, including some sensitive subjects from the past such as war, slavery, racism, religion, and genocide. In this course, it is important to approach these topics with sensitivity and respect. Religion will be discussed solely in its historical context, focusing on its influence on societies and events throughout history. The aim is to provide learners with an understanding of how religion shaped various civilizations without promoting any particular religious beliefs. To foster a comprehensive understanding, learners will be exposed to multiple perspectives through the use of peer-reviewed and scholarly sources. Critical and reflective thinking will be encouraged, allowing students to analyze historical events, conflicts, security issues, religious influences, and economic factors from different angles. Discussions in the classroom will be closely moderated, ensuring a balanced and unbiased approach. The teacher will facilitate discussions, encourage participation, and monitor the conversations to maintain a secular standpoint that respects all viewpoints. When relevant, viewpoints from marginalized groups will be explored, providing a broader understanding of history from different social, cultural, and ethnic perspectives. This approach promotes inclusivity and helps learners develop empathy and a deeper appreciation for diverse experiences. Great care will be taken to present the content in an age-appropriate manner, ensuring that the material is accessible, respectful, and suitable for the maturity level of the learners.
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 PEEP Diorama Project, you may need the following supplies:
Peeps: These can be purchased online from websites like Amazon or similar platforms. They will be used as figures in your diorama.
Shoe box or slightly larger box: Select a suitable box as the base for creating your diorama.
Construction paper: Use construction paper to design the background scene of your diorama.
Scissors: You will need scissors for cutting out shapes, figures, and other elements for your diorama.
Markers and/or crayons: Use markers or crayons to add color and detail to your diorama.
Tape: Secure various components of your diorama using tape.
Thread: Thread can be used to suspend or hang objects within your diorama if needed.
Paste: This can be useful for attaching small objects or pieces of paper to your diorama.

Make sure to have these supplies ready to fully participate in the course activities and projects.
 1 file available upon enrollment
External Resources
In addition to the Outschool classroom, this class uses:
Sources
Atwood, Kathryn J. Women Heroes of World War I: 16 Remarkable Resisters, Soldiers, Spies, and Medics. Bacon, Edwin. Inside Charles River Editors. The Tuskegee Airmen: The History and Legacy of America’s First Black Fighter Pilots in World War II Figes, Orlando. A People's Tragedy: The Russian Revolution: 1891-1924 Hancock, M.D. Politics in Europe. Marr, Andrew. A History of the World. Meyer, G.J. A World Undone: The Story of the Great War, 1914 to 1918. Miller, Donald L., et al. The Story of World War II. Pande, Aparna. Making India Great: The Promise of a Reluctant Global Power Regev, Limor. The Boy From Block 66: A WW2 Jewish Holocaust Survival True Story Stearns, Peter N. The Industrial Revolution in World History Primary and secondary texts, writings and works of various modern scholars and significant figures.
Joined June, 2020
4.9
364reviews
Star Educator
Popular
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.

Reviews

Self-Paced Course
Share

$15

weekly
10 pre-recorded lessons
10 weeks of teacher support
Choose your start date
1 year of access to the content

Completed by 10 learners
Choose your start date
Ages: 12-16

Enroll Now, Start Anytime
About
Support
SafetyPrivacyCA PrivacyLearner PrivacyYour Privacy ChoicesTerms
Financial Assistance
Get The App
Download on the App StoreGet it on Google Play
© 2025 Outschool