Mrs. Fitzgerald’s American History Class
NBHS – Rm 966
Email: jfitzgerald@bcswan.net
Phone: (910) 371-2261, ext. 11069
Welcome to Heroes & History: RPG Journey through American History!
Dear Parents and Guardians,
Welcome! I’m excited to introduce your student to an innovative and immersive semester of American History. My name is Jessica Fitzgerald — you’re welcome to call me Mrs. Fitz — and I’ve been a proud member of the North Brunswick High School teaching community since 2014. I currently teach American History and AP Psychology, and I’m passionate about making history meaningful and relevant for every student.
This semester, your student will participate in “Heroes & History: RPG Journey through American History,” a roleplaying game–inspired approach to learning where students step into the shoes of real people from America’s past. They won’t just study history — they’ll live it.
Using elements of storytelling and roleplaying games (similar in structure to Dungeons & Dragons), students will take on the roles of historical figures and everyday Americans to navigate the events, conflicts, and turning points that shaped the United States. This method is grounded in authentic historical content, not fantasy, and encourages deep thinking, collaboration, creativity, and personal connection to history.
Why Roleplaying Works in the Classroom
RPG-based learning encourages:
Critical thinking and decision-making
Engagement with primary sources and historical evidence
Collaboration and communication
Historical empathy and civic awareness
Students will be tasked with solving real historical dilemmas, participating in debates, completing missions, and reflecting on the consequences of choices — all while developing important academic skills in reading, writing, speaking, and analysis.
Course Outline
Throughout the semester, students will explore major eras and events, including:
The American Revolution
Westward expansion and Native resistance
The Industrial Age and labor movements
The World Wars
The Great Depression
Civil Rights and the Cold War
9/11 and modern America
Grading Structure
Summative (tests, projects, major assignments): 70%
Formative (classwork, discussions, daily tasks): 30%
*Please note: The Common Mastery Assessment (CMA) is 20% of the final course grade unless exempt.
Required Supplies
Students should come to class each day with:
Pens and pencils
Colored pencils
A notebook or loose-leaf paper
A folder for handouts
A charged computer
(Optional: A personal dice set for roleplaying activities, especially a D20 and 2 D6)
Classroom Expectations
Cell phones may not be used or visible during class time, unless there is a documented medical need approved by a doctor and verified through the front office. This helps us maintain a focused, respectful environment where every student can participate meaningfully in the game-based learning experience.
Students will have patience and will work with each other to ensure a good learning environment.
Students will take turns in game play and will not overrun other players.
Students will work within their parties to ensure everyone has benefitted from the day's campaign.
Students will raise one hand with pointer finger up to signal that they have used the pass system to use the bathroom, they DO NOT need to ask for permission so long as the system is working.
Contact Information
If you ever have questions or concerns, or would like to check on your student’s progress, please don’t hesitate to reach out:
Rm: 966 (upstairs)
Phone: (910) 371-2261, ext. 11069
Email: jfitzgerald@bcswan.net *This is the best way to reach me quickly.
Thank you for your support as we bring American History to life in new and exciting ways. I look forward to a fantastic semester with your student!
Warmly,
Mrs. Fitz
American History – North Brunswick High School