Course Description
Historical Media is an exciting new twist on history education. Instead of learning strictly by textbook, this class will offer an interactive curriculum that utilizes media outlets to educate the students about key world historical events. History will come alive in the classroom as dramatic images and special effects dramatize the events of the past. The students will learn to analyze key historical occurrences and determine their effect on the world today. They will then view these same events through the portrayals of the media and judge the accuracy of those portrayals. Upon completion of the class, students will be better able to tell fact from fiction, truth from propaganda, and they will have gained a better understanding of how the past can affect the future. This class is only available to upperclassmen (11th, 12th) so sign up to experience history in a whole new way. To receive credit for this course the student must receive a passing grade and comply with the attendance policy.
Prerequisite: World History/Global Studies, American History (Others by special admission only)
Course Content Materials
Weekly Homework Strategy
Due to the fluid nature of Historical Media, class discussion topics and homework assignments may be determined on a day by day basis. If a student wishes to keep current with their homework when missing school, it is recommended that they contact fellow classmates or the classroom instructor after 3:00 PM to identify the daily assignment. An appropriate amount of make up time will be permitted to catch up on missed assignments as allowed by the student hand book.
Any questions concerning this policy should be directed to the classroom instructor.
Weekly Curriculum Map
(Subject matter varies as new materials become available.)
Note: All units subject to change based on class capability, length of materials, interactive progress, student interest/participation, instructor preference, and educational opportunity variations.
SEMESTER LONG COURSE
Unit 1 The Foundation of Media
2 Weeks
Introduction to Propaganda – Half Week
History of Propaganda – Half Week
Children’s Propaganda – 1 Week
Unit 2 Individual Analysis Projects
2 Weeks
Propaganda Project – Half Week
Propaganda Presentations – 1 Week
Individual Analysis Procedures – Half Week
Unit 3 Sub Units
(Sub Units run weekly based on time and analysis requirements)
Sub Unit 1 – Early Civilizations
Sub Unit 2 – Medieval Society
Sub Unit 3 – Revolutionary Era
Sub Unit 4 – Colonial Empires
Sub Unit 5 – Industrialism/Economic Development
Sub Unit 6 – Global Conflicts
Sub Unit 7 – Global Conflicts
Sub Unit 8 – Global Conflicts
Sub Unit 9 – Cold War Conflicts
Sub Unit 10 – Modern Conflicts/War on Terror
Sub Units
Begin Sub Units for remainder of Semester, Evaluated with Individual Analysis Procedures
Weekly Plan Part 1:
Day 1
Introduce Sub Unit Topic w/Notes
Preview Historical Documentaries
(As Applicable)
Day 2
Historical Documentary or Begin Presentation
Hwk. ½ pg. Analysis
Day 3
Presentation Continues
Hwk. ½ pg. Analysis
Day 4
Presentation Continues
Hwk. ½ pg. Analysis
Day 5
Presentation Continues
Hwk. ½ pg. Analysis
Sub Unit
Weekly Plan Part 2:
Day 1
Presentation Continues
Hwk. ½ pg. Analysis
Day 2
Historical Documentary
Hwk. ½ pg. Comparison Analysis
Day 3
Quiz
Hwk. 1 pg. Plot Summary Essay
Day 4
Review for Test
Day 5
Test
Intro. To Next Unit
Hwk. ½ pg. Topic Essay
Special Note to Parents:
Dear Parent,
Your child has enrolled in a semester interactive, social studies elective called Historical Media. Historical Media is an exciting course designed to introduce advanced level students to the highly influential nature of how the media portrays history. During the semester, students will analyze current production media outlets and review their portrayal of the past. They will then compare this presentation with actual historical data and first-hand accounts of the events discussed. The purpose of this course is to provide students with the ability to successfully analyze news events, movies, and other media productions for accuracy, and to provide them with the means to differentiate fact from fiction, and truth from propaganda.
Due to the graphic nature of some historical events, only upper class students are permitted to enroll. Some of the material presented may have received an “R” rating by the Motion Picture Industry. It is recommended that you routinely discuss the events portrayed in the class with your child. An essential part of the learning process relies on your input and guidance. Please use this class as an opportunity to apply your knowledge and life experience to your child’s education.
Should you have any questions or concerns please feel free to contact the course instructor or the building administrator at your earliest convenience.
Sincerely,
Edgerton High School Social Studies Dept.
111 E. River St.
Edgerton, Ohio 43517
(419)298-2331