Course Description

American History & Government is a survey course that intends to prepare students to live as responsible citizens in an ever-changing world. This course is designed to introduce students to the political, economic and cultural challenges, conditions and changes of the past that have contributed to our present-day society. Beginning with the Colonial period, students will trace the major events that shaped America all the way through the Civil War and the Reconstruction Era.This course will teach continuity and change, respect for the rights and abilities of the individual, concern for the welfare of others and tolerance of differences among peoples. A primary focus is placed on literacy in Social Studies. This is accomplished through the introduction of primary source documents, specifically with the DBQ project, which supports the Common Core Standards. 

Students’ attention will focus on historical thinking and writing skills through the following:

• Analysis and interrogation of documents

• Reading for deep understanding

• Strong evidence-based argumentative writing

 The goals of this course will be reached through the use of Chromebooks and include the following: 

• Use digital tools to gain knowledge

• Appropriately use operations and related applications

• Enhance creativity and the construction of knowledge

• Gather and manage information.