United States History II

1221 United States History II

Grade 10-12: 1 Credit, Honors

What should be America’s role in the world today?

To what extent is the Constitution a living document for the modern world?

How did the individuals and issues of the 20th century shape the events of the world today?

1222 United States History II

Grade 10-12: 1 Credit, College Prep

How did America come to be a world power? What goals and responsibilities does that entail?

Students continue their study of United States history of the 20th and 21st centuries. They learn about the economic history of the Great Depression, New Deal, World War II, and the Cold War, concluding with an examination of domestic and global policies and politics in the 21st century. Students explore guiding questions such as, “How has the United States government responded to economic crises?” and “What are the sources of political and cultural differences in the modern United States?” Additional supporting questions appear under each topic. The questions are included to stimulate teachers’ and students’ own questions for discussion and research.

This course will provide students with a thematic analysis of modern American history from the years leading up to World War 2 to the present, with lessons driven by traditional assessment, project based learning and primary source analysis. Using 1:1 technology, students will collaboratively explore historical biography, chronological events, and thematic issues (identity, war, wealth/poverty, rights, diversity, civic duty and technology). Students will be assessed through document analysis, essay writing, and projects. The course structure is based on critical thinking, problem-solving scenarios and student-generated debates and discussions.

Examples of primary source lessons