Class Description

This class aims to examine the critical period from 1753 to 1783 and make clear the social, philosophical, political, human, and economic forces that forged 14 colonies into the United States and Canada. Each class will include an original source for reading and analysis, a simple biography of a related person, and a worksheet to record important facts related to the event being studied. No textbook is needed. The instructor will send out the reading materials. 

Included in these classes are discussions about slavery, both as an economic and cultural presence and force in this time period, and the people who were enslaved who were involved in the struggle of the Revolutionary War. We also discuss the duality of fighting for Liberty while some people were held in slavery, and the struggles that created. The class additionally discussed Native American involvement in the war and characters involved on both sides. 

After successfully completing this course, students will be able to

• Examine the historical development of the conflict and identify the major figures in each stage and their significance.
• Identify the major goals of the various factions that became the United States.
• List the internal and external forces that caused the crisis and brought about its resolution.
• Recall the major events of the era.
• Develop skills in analytical thinking. Integrate all of the above people, places, or events into the “big picture” of the Revolution.
• Discuss historical issues, respond to study questions, and reflect on historical themes as presented in the context of the period and their relevance today.
• Create and present 1 project each semester based in the era. Past projects have included a biographical report, a model of the schooner Gaspee, A children’s book, a short documentary film, a diorama, a demonstration of 18th century medicine, research and recreation of 18th century foodways, sewing 18th century clothing and many more. Students are encouraged to find a subject that interests them and a medium that they enjoy working in to present their findings.

This class may be considered for elective credit for high school students. Please submit to your charter school for final approval.

Additional Information

Class size: 6-15 students

Supplies: Instructor will provide materials to print or view as a PDF

Prerequisites

Students will be expected to read the assigned texts, research events, ideas, and people in the week in between classes and be prepared to discuss them during class days. Students will be presented with facts and ideas but encouraged to use their minds to ask questions and reach conclusions when studying history.

Class tags:
A-G & HS Electives History