Course Overview

Honors United States History A is the first part of a two-course sequence that examines the political, social, and economic development of the United States from its founding through the late 19th century. Students explore the nation's founding documents and values while analyzing how industrialization, westward expansion, and conflict shaped America's growth. Instruction is aligned with state and national standards and challenges students to develop advanced historical reasoning skills appropriate for honors-level study.

Key Learning Focus

Students will:

• Evaluate the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and other founding documents.
• Analyze the growth of the nation through industrialization and westward expansion.
• Examine the causes and effects of the Civil War and Reconstruction.
• Explore social, cultural, and political changes during the nation's early development.
• Strengthen skills in interpreting primary sources, maps, charts, and timelines.

Instructional Approach

Through an inquiry-based, honors-level approach, students will:

• Engage with primary and secondary sources to understand historical perspectives.
• Create portfolio items that analyze essential documents and historical events.
• Participate in discussions and activities that emphasize critical thinking and comparative analysis.

Outcome

By the end of Honors United States History A, students will:

• Understand the founding and early development of the United States.
• Demonstrate analytical skills in historical interpretation and document analysis.
• Be prepared to continue the sequence in Honors United States History B, focusing on the modern era.