Course Plan: U.S. History and Government (Grade 11)
Course Description
This course offers an in-depth examination of United States history from pre-colonial times to the contemporary era, with an emphasis on the establishment of government, civic engagement, and the evolution of American society. Students will engage critically with major events, figures, and documents to understand the complexities of American political institutions and cultural dynamics.
Course Objectives
- Analyze key historical events and their significance in shaping the United States.
- Understand the foundations and structures of the U.S. government.
- Discuss the impact of social movements and civic responsibility in American history.
- Develop critical thinking and analytical writing skills through historical inquiry.
Course Layout
The course is divided into 30 lessons organized into 6 modules.
Module 1: Foundations of American Society
Lesson 1: Indigenous Peoples and Cultures (Pre-Columbian to 1492)
- Overview of the diverse cultures, societies, and political systems of Indigenous peoples.
Lesson 2: European Exploration and Colonization (1492-1607)
- Examination of early European exploration, motivations for colonization, and effects on Indigenous populations.
Lesson 3: The Thirteen Colonies (1607-1754)
- Study of the establishment, economies, and diversity of the Thirteen Colonies.
Lesson 4: Colonial Life and Society (1607-1754)
- Analysis of the daily lives, values, and social hierarchies of colonial life.
Module 2: Revolution and Independence
Lesson 5: Road to Revolution (1754-1776)
- Focus on key events leading to the American Revolution, including the French and Indian War.
Lesson 6: The American Revolution (1775-1783)
- Discussion of major battles, strategies, and the role of foreign influences.
Lesson 7: Declaration of Independence and Revolutionary Ideals
- In-depth examination of the Declaration and the Enlightenment ideas that influenced it.
Lesson 8: Creating a New Government (1783-1789)
- Analysis of the Articles of Confederation and the Constitutional Convention.
Module 3: Formation of the Republic
Lesson 9: The Constitution and Bill of Rights (1789-1791)
- Understanding the Constitution's structure and the significance of the Bill of Rights.
Lesson 10: Early Republic and Political Parties (1790-1824)
- Study of the emergence of political parties and key leaders' roles in shaping the early republic.
Lesson 11: Expansion and Reform (1820-1860)
- Examination of Manifest Destiny, territorial expansion, and social reform movements.
Lesson 12: The Causes of the Civil War (1850-1861)
- Analysis of the social, economic, and political factors leading to the Civil War.
Module 4: Civil War and Reconstruction
Lesson 13: The Civil War (1861-1865)
- Overview of major battles, military strategies, and the war’s impact on society.
Lesson 14: Emancipation and the Role of African Americans
- Discussion of the Emancipation Proclamation and contributions of African Americans.
Lesson 15: Reconstruction (1865-1877)
- Examination of reconstruction policies, successes, and challenges.
Lesson 16: The Impact of Reconstruction on the South
- Analysis of the long-term effects of Reconstruction and the rise of Jim Crow laws.
Module 5: Industrialization to the Great Depression
Lesson 17: The Gilded Age (1870-1900)
- Study of industrialization, urbanization, and immigrant experiences.
Lesson 18: Social Issues and Movements (1880-1920)
- Exploration of social reform movements, including women’s suffrage and labor rights.
Lesson 19: The Progressive Era (1890-1920)
- Discussion of key reforms and the impact of Progressivism on American politics.
Lesson 20: United States as a World Power (1898-1918)
- Analysis of imperialism, World War I, and the U.S.'s role on the global stage.
Module 6: Modern America
Lesson 21: The Roaring Twenties and Great Depression (1920-1939)
- Examination of the cultural changes of the 1920s and the causes and effects of the Great Depression.
Lesson 22: World War II (1939-1945)
- Overview of U.S. involvement in WWII, key battles, and the home front's social changes.
Lesson 23: The Cold War Era (1947-1991)
- Analysis of the ideological conflict between the U.S. and Soviet Union, including major events.
Lesson 24: Civil Rights Movement (1950s-1960s)
- Examination of the struggle for civil rights and key figures and events involved.
Lesson 25: Recent American History (1970-Present)
- Exploration of significant events from the 1970s to the present, including technology, politics, and social issues.
Lesson 26: The U.S. Government Today
- Overview of current government structures, functions, and civic responsibilities.
Module 7: Civic Engagement
Lesson 27: The Role of Citizens in a Democracy
- Discussion on civic engagement, voter participation, and community involvement.
Lesson 28: Rights and Responsibilities
- Examination of citizens' rights and responsibilities in the U.S. political system.
Lesson 29: Current Issues and Debates
- Analysis of contemporary political issues and the role of the government.
Lesson 30: Course Review and Final Assessment
- Comprehensive review of key course themes and final assessment.
Assessment Strategy
- Weekly Quizzes: Critical thinking questions based on reading material.
- Midterm Exam: Comprehensive assessment covering Modules 1-4.
- Research Paper: Students will choose a topic related to U.S. history and present a well-researched argument.
- Final Exam: Comprehensive assessment covering all modules.
- Participation: Active engagement in class discussions and group activities.
Recommended Resources
- Textbook: American History: A Survey by Alan Brinkley
- Online resources (e.g., primary source documents, historical databases)
- Documentaries and films related to American history
This plan outlines a comprehensive course designed to provide students with a thorough understanding of U.S. history and government, preparing them for informed citizenship and civic engagement.