World History
"The purpose of history is to explain the past - to say why the world around us
is the way it is."
[Crichton, Michael. Timeline. pg. 437.1999]

Q.	What specific subjects will we study in World History?
A.	  For the most part, we will take a sequential and chronological approach to studying the major historical periods of the world from 1500 to the present. These major periods are:

•	The Renaissance & Age of Discovery
•	The French Revolution
•	The Industrial Revolution
•	The Age of Imperialism
•	World War I
•	The Rise of Totalitarians
•	World War II & The Holocaust
•	The Post War Era/Human Rights
Q.	What skills will I learn this year?
A.	  The Sophomore World History course will test & improve your ability to do the following:

•	Analyze literature and historical documents
•	Communicate effectively as a speaker in presentations and discussions
•	Use technology and other media to express yourself
•	Write in a variety of forms for a variety of audiences
•	Develop and support arguments with evidence
•	Research both print and digital resources	Q.	How does this connect to the California State Standards and Framework for Social Science?
A.	  Both the Standards and the Framework focus student’s studies on the major turning points that shaped the modern western world. 

	  This course traces the rise of democratic ideas and develops an understanding of the historical roots of current world issues, with a focus on the expansion of the West and the growing interdependence of people and cultures throughout the world.

	  There is a strong emphasis on developing the ability to analyze the ideas and events of these times, in order to find and understand their nature and interrelationship.
Q.	What kind of assignments will we do this year?
A.	  Variety is the spice of life. This year I will ask you to complete a variety of exhibitions. An exhibition is anything that allows you to show me that you have mastered the materials. I will do the traditional quizzes, multiple choice tests and essay tests. Some of the other exhibitions may include group projects, research papers, a team debate, drama performances, a speech, a technology project, among other things.	

Mr. Sovel, room M-5	a-teacher@home.com