Course Description
Making sense of the unique and fascinating places in the world requires a broad range of knowledge and skills. Students explore how Earth’s geography has affected human life and culture as they learn about the development of early civilizations in Asia and the Mediterranean. Students examine the great religious traditions born during this time, witness the growth of dynasties in the Far East, and learn about the ideas that spawned the Renaissance. As the world became caught up in the excitement of the Age of Exploration, the Americas were “discovered,” although vibrant and thriving civilizations had existed there for thousands of years. Students learn about the struggles of these native civilizations, the slaves who were brought to build new nations, and independence movements in the Western world. The issues addressing modern nations include trade, migration, urbanization, and human rights. In an exploration of recent history, students learn about dictators and witness revolutions in Europe, the Middle East, and the Americas. In the final section of the course, students study the impact of globalization and the technology driving it.

Course Breakdown

Early humans
The first civilizations
Creation and influence of ancient Greece, Rome, and China
Advancements in trade and industry
Rise of the monarchy and feudalism The Crusades
Age of Exploration
Ancient American and African civilizations
Revolution and independence in the Americas
Relations between Mexico and the United States

Course Goals
Examine factors that led early human populations to come together to form ancient civilizations.
Analyze the effects of the Silk Road on trading and cultural diffusion and explain how these helped develop cultures around the world.
Assess the beginnings of early Greek and Roman cultures by examining their governments’ structures, their economies, and their religious systems.
Examine the influence of the spread of Christianity throughout Europe and the religious conflicts that arose as a result, including the Crusades.
Analyze the rise and fall of feudalism in medieval Europe, as well as its effects on Europe’s social structure. Consider the influence of European conquests and exploration on North American culture, religion, and social dynamics.
Evaluate the growth and influence of European culture through transatlantic encounters, colonialism, trade, and slavery.
Assess the beginnings of Mesoamerican cultures by examining the governments, economies, and religions of the Aztecs and the Maya.
Evaluate the relationship between the United States and Native American populations as a result of American expansion.