Course Essential Understandings

Course Name: United States History                                       Course Number: 911, 912, 913                               

Revision Date: 1/31/2019                                                         Grade/Level: 11

Course Length: 1 credit, semester

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Course Description:

(Core Values and Beliefs Linked)

This course provides a comprehensive study of the United States both chronologically and thematically from the Revolutionary War Era to Modern America with an emphasis on the 20^th century. Each child is provided the opportunity to examine how the political, economic, and social history of the nation is interwoven, establishing a unique and challenging American society. Students will gain an understanding that the United States development and growth is a complex balance between domestic concerns and the nation’s place in an interconnected globe. Students will demonstrate knowledge and understanding through a wide variety of research-based venues; class participation/discussion, individual/collaborative/cooperative projects, persuasive writings, presentations, and traditional assessments. Connections between academic work of the classroom and the world beyond the classroom will be emphasized through meaningful assignments that challenge each student to think critically and creatively, and communicate their ideas effectively.

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Suggested Instructional Strategies:

Instructional strategies will include at least five sub-components: summary and note-taking, questions, analysis, reflection, discussion, and cooperative learning. Strategies will focus on establishing a strong base of knowledge in order to foster a deeper understanding that calls for critical analysis and interpretation of the subject. Student produced work in many varied forms from position papers to project presentations will demonstrate evidence of student understandings.

By the end of United States History (11^th Grade) students will understand that:                                      

1. Analysis, judgments and arguments on historical and political events must be supported by relevant and sufficient evidence drawn from literary or informational texts and data bases.

2. The United States Government is based on the principles of consensus and compromise.

3. The turmoil and results of the Civil War and Reconstruction altered our views and practices as individuals and as a nation.

4. Industrial and technological developments throughout our nation’s history have challenged both society and government to keep pace.

5. Reform movements in response to cultural changes, economic crises, foreign adventures, and shifting domestic values, have created an evolving role of government throughout our history.  

6. United States foreign policy is based on a need to protect American interests such as, but not limited to; trade, resources, regional stability, security, and the spread of democratic values.

7. Post World War II policies of the United States were greatly influence by the rivalry between democracy and communism resulting in a time period known as the Cold War and played out on the world stage.