Welcome to IB History of the Americas.
Over the course of this year you will study and learn to critically think and analyse the History of the Americas within the following nine topic areas:
1. The Colonial Period2. Movements of Independence3. Evolution of new governments and confederation4. Slavery in the Americas5. US Civil War: causes, courses and consequences (effects)6. Economic and social developments in the Americas from the mid 19th century to 19197. Political developments in the Americas from the mid 19th century to 19198. Cultural and Intellectual developments in the Americas from the mid 19th century to the First World War9. United States Foreign policy in Latin America, 1898 to 1945. Of these nine topic areas the following four will be covered in depth: Movements of Independence Slavery in the Americas US Civil War: causes, courses and consequences (effects) United States Foreign policy in Latin America, 1898 to 1945 The primary text for the class is America, Sixth Edition by George Tindall and David Shi. Along with the Tindall/Shi book, you will also be doing outside readings in For the Record, A Documentary Reader (abbreviated FTR). Other pertinent readings will also be provided. Reading is assigned in blocks; therefore, you must be motivated and responsible. As you read take notes on the chapter—use whatever note taking format with which you are comfortable. Other pertinent articles will also be provided as we move through the course of the year. While discussions, in class readings and writings, and outside projects will be assigned, they are never to take the place of your reading in the Tindall/Shi book. Attendance—Attendance is mandatory. Significant absences can (and should) affect your grade. Daily work—reading quizzes, document readings, timed writing, peer editing, discussion, notes, in class assignments/activities, research days in the library, presentations, time lines, reviews, short term projects, and unit tests. Internal Assessment—This is a historical investigation of approximately 1500 to 2000 words that is divided into six sections: a plan of investigation, a summary of evidence, evaluation of sources, an analysis, a conclusion, and a bibliography or list of sources. This is going to be worth 20% of your grade and give you a valuable practice for the internal assessment you will complete senior year. This class will begin the internal assessment in January with a projected completion date in April. However, it is never too early to begin considering topics you would find interesting to pursue.