Course Overview

In this course, students will embark on a comprehensive exploration of the Western Hemisphere, focusing on key themes and topics that shape the region. The course encompasses a variety of units that delve into the historical, geographical, cultural, economic, and political aspects of the Americas.  The course begins with Unit 1, which develops students' social studies skills and builds a solid background in content knowledge. Students will acquire essential research, analytical, and critical thinking skills to support their understanding throughout the course.  Unit 2 explores the United States and Canada, with a particular emphasis on Indigenous peoples in the region, immigration, and diversity.  Students will examine the historical and contemporary influence of both Indigenous Peoples and immigrants in the United States and Canada.  Unit 3 shifts the focus to Latin America, delving into the rich cultural mosaic of the region. Students will study the ancient civilizations of the Aztec, Inca, and Maya, exploring their adaptation to the environment and the enduring cultural influences that shape the region today.  Unit 4 examines pressing issues in Latin America, including deforestation in the Amazon Rainforest and natural disasters. Students will investigate the causes, consequences, and possible solutions to these environmental challenges, gaining insights into the interconnectedness of local, regional, and global issues.  Unit 5 delves into the political and economic interdependence within Latin America. Students will explore topics such as trade and poverty, examining measures like the Human Development Index (HDI) and Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to understand the economic and political dynamics of the region. They will compare and analyze different countries' economic systems and the impact of international trade on regional development.

Throughout the course, students will develop a deep understanding of the historical context, interconnections, and development of the Western Hemisphere. They will examine the complex interactions between majority and minority groups, including Indigenous Peoples, during European colonization. Students will analyze the social, political, cultural, and economic development of the Western Hemisphere, exploring networks of communication, migration patterns, and international trade.  The course also integrates a strong geographical component, allowing students to use geographic tools to investigate and solve problems. They will analyze physical features and their impact on human populations, examine positive and negative interactions between human and physical systems, and explore how societies adapt to and modify their environment.  Additionally, the course explores the foundations of government systems in the Western Hemisphere, including the development of citizenship, structures, and functions of different government systems, and the influence of political ideas on nations and regions. Students will gain an understanding of the economic components of different systems of government and the historical and cultural influences of minorities on civil governments.  

By the end of the course, students will have developed a well-rounded understanding of the Western Hemisphere, its history, geography, culture, economics, and political systems. They will be equipped with critical thinking skills and a global perspective that prepares them to be informed and active citizens in our interconnected world.

Structure of Units

For Units 2-5, there are two mini-units based on subthemes within the larger unit.  These are designed to give the teacher more flexibility and focus for the units.  In schools where social studies courses are taught half of the time, teachers are encouraged to complete at least one of the mini-units.  If time permits, then the second mini-unit should be taught.  The mini-units that are bolded below are the ones that should be taught.  The unbolded units should be taught if time allows.