The aim of the elective US History course is to explore the major circumstances surrounding the formation and operation of the first modern democratic nation; the United States of America. It seeks to provide a deeper understanding of historical and contemporary American culture, society, and politics and to arm students with the ability to identify and deal with the contemporary regional and global implications of its strength.
This unit examines the settlement of the Americas and the development of an independent identity. It will focus on the foundations for the new society at Jamestown and its development.
This unit examines the circumstances surrounding the American War of Independence and the notion of liberty. It will examine, in detail, the causes of the independence movement and its leaders. Students are asked to form judgements about the characters and whether or not they were acting out of self interest or the interests of righteousness.
This unit explores the life of Thomas Jefferson, revolutionary hero, author of the Declaration of Independence, President, and symbol of American democracy. Students will also be asked to explore the darker side of Jefferson, the slave owning adulterer, and debate whether or not he is the personification of all that is good and bad about the USA today.
This unit explores the causes and course of the Civil War and identifies how political necessity over time influenced the cause of the Civil War. The motivations of Abraham Lincoln with regard to slavery are analysed in detail, with some potentially surprising results. The reconstruction of the US is also briefly examined, with the major question being whether or not the freed slaves actually achieved real freedom.
A combination of class and common assessments, which are taken periodically through the year, together with other tasks involving problem solving and investigation are used to determine grades. An examination is held at the end of each semester and tests the content and proficiencies learned throughout the semester.
Learning Activities
Students will engage in a diverse set of learning activities, both individually and collaboratively, to cater for all learning styles, including:
Student will use class sets of existing texts and online resources.