Course Overview

Honors World History 1450 to Present A is the first half of a two-course sequence that examines the political, cultural, economic, and social transformations of the world from the early modern period onward. Students study global interactions, the spread of belief systems, the rise of empires, and the cultural achievements that shaped societies between 1450 and the 18th century. Instruction aligns with state and national standards and challenges students with the depth of inquiry, analysis, and source interpretation expected at the honors level.

Key Learning Focus

Students will:

• Investigate human-environment interaction and its role in shaping civilizations.
• Analyze the development and interaction of societies across continents.
• Examine the expansion of belief systems and their influence on culture and governance.
• Explore conflict and cultural achievements that transformed the early modern world.
• Engage with essential questions such as:
  • Why do we study the past?
  • How has religion transformed societies?
  • How are cultural achievements defined?

Instructional Approach

This honors-level course emphasizes inquiry-based learning and historical interpretation, with instruction delivered through:

• Peer Model activities, showing students how to apply historical concepts and skills.
• 21st Century skills integration, preparing learners to connect history to real-world literacy, reasoning, and problem-solving.
• Analysis of primary and secondary sources, including scholarly texts, excerpts, and articles.
• Check-In and Practice activities to reinforce knowledge, address misconceptions, and extend understanding to new contexts.

Outcome

By the end of Honors World History 1450 to Present A, students will:

• Develop advanced skills in historical analysis, interpretation, and critical thinking.
• Gain an understanding of how global connections, belief systems, and cultural exchanges shaped societies from 1450 onward.
• Be prepared to advance to Honors World History 1450 to Present B, where they will continue to examine global transformations through the modern era.