CHA3U1 American History
Instructor: Mr. Melnyk Email:
Phone: (905)940-8840 ext.470 /


COURSE DESCRIPTION
"It is the principal of rational discourse, of tolerant debate that this course is dedicated" -Adapted from Taking Sides: Clashing Views on Controversial Issues in American History
This course examines the development of American social, political, and economic structures from colonial times to the present. Students will analyse the chronology of events and evaluate the roles played by specific individuals and groups throughout American history. Students will conduct research and analysis, and communicate, in a variety of ways, their knowledge and understanding of the country that is Canada’s closest neighbour and most important cultural influence and economic partner.

REQUIREMENTS (Essential Evidence)
1) Attend all lectures and small group section meetings, having read the material beforehand.
2) Prepare, deliver and lead a Seminar and Debate (1 period).
3) Meaningful role in and completion of Culminating Activities
4) Take the in-class midterm examination.
5) Develop and Write one analytical paper.
6) Complete the Summative Evaluation and take the final examination.

ASSESSMENT & EVALUATION
All Evaluation based on the 4 Areas of the Achievement Chart
T: Thinking/Inquiry A: Application C: Communication K: Knowledge

COURSE WORK: 70% FINAL EVALUATION: 30%

Unit/Strand / Culminating Activities/Task / Due Date
All Units / Learning Portfolio & Unit Tests
1. The American Dream (1608-1791) / CA1: Commemorative Stamp
2. The Republic Consolidated (1792-1849) / CA2: Taking Sides in American History
3. Tearing the Nation Apart (1850-1876) / CA3: Dramatic Presentation
Mid Term Examination
4. America Acquires Power (1870-1941) / CA4: Americana Game
5. The New America (1941-Present) / CA5: Research Essay
Concurrent Unit: American Hegemony (1900-) / Tea Party: Seminar & Debates
Summative Evaluation / Final 30%
The American Dream (15%)
Final Exam (15%)

NOTE: SOME ASSESSMENT COMPONENTS MAY BE ALTERED DEPENDING ON TOPIC INTEREST, CLASS DEMAND OR TIME CONSTRAINTS. STUDENTS WILL BE MADE AWARE OF ANY CHANGES WITH AN UNDERSTANDING THAT MODIFICATIONS ARE IN THEIR BEST INTEREST.