U.S. DepartmentHistory

Name of CourseAncient & Pre-modern World History

Grades9thType of Courserequired

Number of meetings per six-day rotation5

I.Brief Course Description

This course is designed to utilize a chronological approach to the study of ancient and medieval history. Each unit will focus on a particular civilization’s geographic, economic, cultural, religious, and political characteristics and history covering a period from prehistory through the 13th Century. This course serves to expand knowledge and understanding of the development of early civilizations and how these early civilizations influenced later societal development, as well as to provide a solid foundation for future historical study.

II.Goals
A.To read and interpret maps, charts, graphs, and illustrations;
  1. To use research skills including note-taking and Internet searching;
  2. To use technology to research, create presentations, and increase understanding;
  3. To analyze and attempt the resolution of problems;
  4. To write proper historical research papers and structured essays;
  5. To read, listen, think critically, and form opinions based on historical evidence;
  6. To read and study effectively both independently and in class;
  7. To develop effective test-taking strategies;
  8. To understand basic historical concepts, connecting past to present;
  9. To begin to understand the cumulative nature of civilization development and progression as well as forces involved in the decline of civilizations;
  10. To appreciate basic connections shared by all people both past and present.
III.Topics Covered
  1. Prehistory and the role of archaeology
  2. Ancient Egypt—Old/Middle/New Kingdoms & Late Period
  3. Ancient Middle East (Sumerian, Babylonian, Hittite, Hebrew, Assyrian, Phoenician)
  4. Ancient IndiaChina (Indian, Aryan, Shang, Chou)
  5. Ancient Greece (Minoan, Dorian (Achaean), Athenian, Spartan, Hellenistic)
  6. Ancient Rome
  7. Byzantine Empire/Islamic Golden Age
  8. Medieval Europe
IV.Materials Used
  1. World History, Ellis, Esler, Pearson/Prentice Hall
  2. Teacher-created and acquired materials (study guides, graphic organizers, supplemental readings—articles/worksheets)
  3. Summer Reading: Akhenaton: Dweller in Truth by Naguib Mahfouz
  4. Laptop computers
  5. SmartBoard Activities
  6. MrStott.com website and links
  7. “Quia” internet quizzes and review games
  8. DVD, maps, posters, “Jeopardy” review games
V.Methods
A.Cooperative learning activities
  1. Lecture
  2. Classroom discussion
  3. PowerPoint presentations
  4. Concept mapping
  5. Problem-based learning
  6. Guided reading
  7. Review games
  8. Additional help outside class (pre-test reviews)
  9. Web site investigation
  10. Board work
  11. Simulations
  12. Demonstrations
  13. Individual learning activities/projects/readings
VI.Evaluation
  1. Tests/quizzes—40%
  2. Homework/in-class assignments—40%
  3. Projects—research papers, presentations, etc.—20%
  4. Final exams—20% of semester grade