Course Description
U.S. History 1
There are two distinct semesters in this one year course.
The first semester is a civics-based semester course that covers the political causes and effects of the American Revolution through the making of the U.S. Constitution.
It explores the structure of local, state, and federal governments, and the rights and responsibilities of citizens. Emphasis is placed on historical interpretations and
analysis of significant events with special attention given to theoretical and practical aspects of the U.S. Constitution. The principles of civics are applied to current
issues and law-related topics. This semester course is a CT State Department of Education requirement.
The second semester is a chronological survey of U.S. history,
covering the post-Constitution period through Reconstruction. Emphasis is again placed on historical interpretations and analysis of significant events. In both
terms, skill development in the following areas will be stressed: writing the analytic and persuasive essay, technology, and reading. All students are encouraged
to think critically and communicate their ideas to others.
Course Texts
There are two texts for the year.
The American Nation
from Prentice Hall
and
Civics: Participating in Government
from Prentice Hall