Syllabus+US+Hist+1+Tri+1

Syllabus US HIST 1 Trimester 1

 * **US History 1-1st Trimester**

Projects may vary depending on different subject integration ideas. 2010 school year first project culminates with the Colonial America Murder Mystery Forensics dinner in November. As students progress toward completing that project, they will engage in a variety of discussions, readings, videos, research sessions, groupwork, and field work to develop their ability to:


 * Carefully read primary historic texts, with the help of the teacher and withing groups, for meaning
 * Develop the ability to think critically about historical thoughts and events through sharing thoughts on readings and other materials
 * Create an atmosphere of inquiry and interest in the past
 * Develop a knowledge base of concepts and events in early America that led
 * 1st Trimester Topics:**

Columbus and the Aboriginal Americans: What brought Europeans to the New World and what became of the original inhabitants of the Americas as a result? Europeans in the New World: Where did they come from and why did they come here? Where did they live and what did they do? The English legal legacy and the ideas of American liberty: What laws and rights came from the English tradition? Religious freedom and the colonies: Where did Europeans go in the New World for religious freedom and what resulted? Economics, slavery, indentured servitude: What kinds of business were the colonists into and how did slavery begin?

The American Revolution: did the colonists have good reasons to fight for independence? The Constitution and the Bill of Rights: Why are these such a big deal and how do they make the United States unique? The founders and religion: How did the founders view religion? Is ours a "Christian nation" as many claim?

Course detail:


 * Notes:** Students are advised to take notes at various times when information is presented. You may use your notes on the final essay test.


 * Weekly participation** (Weeks 1-4): Weekly writing, discussion, video, short presentation, etc.are required of each student to check for mastery and participation.


 * 50% of grade:** 5 total @ 10 points each

The last hour or so of each of the first five weeks will be devoted to thinking in detail about what you have taken away from what we have discovered in class.


 * Mystery Dinner Project: 40% of grade.** The history portion of this inter-subject project will account for 40%of your trimester grade. Requirements for this project will go out at the beginning of October.


 * Final Essay test:** **10% of grade** Each trimester will end with an essay test, a crucial skill to master for approaching your college years. Tests are usually 5-8 questions and students may use approved notes. ||