Readings

This section will list all of the required and supplemental readings addressing this topic within this module. You must complete the required core reading assignments. The required reading is taken from the AMSCO textbook. Scans of the textbook are provided on this site. This textbook is concise and aligned to the framework thus providing a greater opportunity to dive deeper into our studies reading more primary and secondary sources. Students may select to read the parts or the entirety of the extended Brinkley or American YAWP textbook assignment in addition to the AMSCO in order to read the richer narrative. The Brinkley and American YAWP textbooks are a useful source for extended research and deeper narratives.

Supplemental readings range from articles to excerpts providing additional information. Sometimes the supplemental readings are optional, sometimes a supplemental reading may be required, and sometimes you will be required to choose one of a selection.

As you read, annotate or take notes in a style of your choice.

Preview the options for the Topic Reflection assignment that you will complete as a final product for this topic. This will help you decide how you want to gather your information. The research (information) you gather from the readings (and the presentation) will be used in creating your final product that requires you to answer the essential question for this topic.

Presentations

Presentations may include videos, podcasts, PowerPoints/Slide Decks, or Infographics. Similar to the readings, presentations may range from optional to required with potential separate tasks to be completed. If you come across a great presentation (video, podcast, etc.) on this topic that is not currently posted, please let me know. I appreciate student feedback to update the collection to keep resources relevant and useful.

Research gathered may assist you with the completion of the aligned Key Concepts and the topic reflection. It is recommended that you subscribe to the appropriate YouTube channels when you find a presenter you enjoy.

OPTIONAL: View one of the following presentations.

Skills Development

The following section material focuses on developing historical thinking and writing skills. You may be asked to simply review the information; you may be asked to review the information and complete a Google Form to submit completion of the task and to submit questions or concerns regarding the process or the strategy; or you may be asked to practice the skill by submitting an assignment to Google Classroom.

Extended Research

The following activities are considered works in progress. Although progress checks will be completed and feedback provided, you will only officially submit them a few times during the term. This will provide you flexibility in completing them with accuracy, depth, and purpose. Completion of these activities promote long-term preparation for the course and AP exams.

Extended Research files or format will be provided.

Topic Reflection: Answer the Essential Question with research

Gather and report information that would be used to write a formal response that answers the essential question for this topic. You are only providing your research. You are not writing a formal response....yet. The written response will be LATER in the course after training on effective writing and it is appropriate to come back to topics as a review activity.

There are several ways to review information. You need to select a style that helps you. What is an ideal format for one person may or may not work for another. At this point, you are not be asked to formulate a thesis statement. This component will be added later. Right now, you are tapping into prior knowledge, while shifting into US history, exploring various notetaking systems, and adjusting to the new course and procedures.

Make sure you include specific, relevant vocabulary, names, dates, and details that answer the essential question. Additionally, the information you include should help you recall this information days, weeks, and MONTHS later. This will be a regular assignment for you. However, you are NOT required to do each topic reflection using the exact same format. In fact, you are highly encouraged to explore and try new strategies. This is your opportunity to find out what is the best format for YOU!

Remember that the purpose of the assignment is to provide information to answer the essential question. Keep a focus on only answering the question. This will help you filter information and maintain a focus on the task at hand.....answering the question being asked.