Skip To Main Content

RTCC History Course Syllabus

US History: 1850 to Present Course Syllabus

Course Description

This course provides a comprehensive overview of U.S. History from 1850 to the present. We will explore significant units, including:

  • Civil War
  • Reconstruction
  • Westward Expansion
  • Industrial Age
  • Labor Movements
  • Cities, Immigrants, and Farmers
  • The Progressive Era
  • American Imperialism
  • World War I
  • Roaring 20s
  • The Great Depression
  • World War II
  • The Cold War
  • Post-War Prosperity and Civil Rights
  • The 1960s

Course Objectives

Students will:

  1. Analyze Historical Sources: Interpret primary and secondary sources to understand historical periods.
  2. Understand Development: Analyze historical developments and their impact on the U.S. and global community.
  3. Investigate Key Events: Explore significant events, documents, movements, and individuals in American history.
  4. Connect Local and State History: Use local history to understand broader national themes.
  5. Understand Cause and Effect: Analyze relationships in historical events.
  6. Explore Different Perspectives: Investigate issues through various viewpoints.
  7. Understand Geographic Factors: Analyze how geography impacts historical events and development.
  8. Impact of Conflicts: Understand the significance of national and international decisions.
  9. Impact of Social Movements: Examine the effects of social movements on American life.
  10. Changes in Government Role: Analyze the evolving role of government and constitutional issues.
  11. Economic Impacts: Understand the economic effects of major events and global competition.
  12. Impact of Immigration: Analyze the effects of migration and immigration on society.

Required Materials

  • eBook (provided)
  • Paper and pen
  • Computer
  • Positive attitude and willingness to learn

Grading Policy

  • Classwork: 60%
  • Assessments: 20%
  • Projects: 20%

Class Policies and Expectations

  • Respect Others: Listen attentively and use kind words.
  • Be Prepared: Bring necessary materials and complete assignments.
  • Engage in Learning: Ask questions and contribute to discussions.
  • Use Devices Responsibly: Follow technology guidelines.
  • Keep the Classroom Clean: Respect personal and shared spaces.
  • Be on Time: Arrive punctually and ready to learn.
  • Communicate Honestly: Speak truthfully and ask for help.
  • Take Responsibility: Own your learning and choices.
  • Use Positive Language: Promote a respectful environment.
  • Follow Directions: Complete tasks as instructed.
  • Collaborate Effectively: Contribute fairly in group work.
  • Manage Emotions: Express feelings constructively.
  • Stay Safe: Maintain a respectful and secure environment.
  • Embrace Mistakes: View challenges as learning opportunities.
  • Support Inclusion: Respect diverse perspectives.

Grade Scale

A 100 - 90
B 89 - 80
C 79 - 70
D 69 - 60
F 59 - 0

Rubric for Assessment

Criteria

Excellent (5 pts)

Good (4 pts)

Satisfactory (3 pts)

Needs Improvement (2 pts)

Unsatisfactory (1 pt)

Understanding

Demonstrates deep understanding of content

Demonstrates good understanding

Basic understanding evident

Limited understanding

No understanding

Analysis

Insightful analysis of sources

Good analysis

Basic analysis

Limited analysis

No analysis

Engagement

Actively engages in discussions

Participates in discussions

Occasionally engages

Rarely participates

No participation

Collaboration

Excellent teamwork

Good teamwork

Basic teamwork

Limited teamwork

No teamwork

This syllabus outlines the expectations and structure of the course. Please refer to it throughout the year for guidance and support.


Contact Me/ Office Hours

Afterschool 3:00 PM - 3:30 PM

Instructor Name: Clayton Squires 

Email: csquires@orangesouthwest.org