• Course Description:

    American Studies III is a continuation of American Studies I & II. This course covers from the escalation and outbreak of World War II to the major events in today’s world. Emphasis is placed on social, economic, and political developments that lead to an understanding of today’s American society, its problems, and its achievements. Students will use many methods of learning as a gateway to applying and comprehending core content. This course will also focus on the development of students’ analysis, writing, and collaborative learning skills in preparation for their continuing academics.

     

    The United States is a country founded on dissent. Dissent is defined as the expression or holding of opinions at variance with those previously, commonly, or officially held. From our very origin, many Americans fought for change or a way to improve life in the United States. As Patrick Henry once stated, “Give me liberty, or give me death!” A key focus of this course will be dissent, whether it is the Counterculture Movement of the 1950s, the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s, draft dodging and protest during the Vietnam Era, dissent music, or dissent movements of today’s world. We will spend a lot of time dissecting and analyzing these major social movements throughout this course. We also will take a look at some Hazleton history!

     

    ***Writing, reading comprehension, and discussion will be major aspects of this course. Students will be asked to dig deep into history to formulate their own opinions and make connections throughout the course, as well as real world connections to truly grasp the content. It is imperative for students to not just memorize dates and names, but to take information learned and demonstrate their comprehension through in-class discussion, projects, and writing prompts, whether they are quizzes, tests, or Performance Tasks. This is to prepare students for future courses in high school, higher education courses, and everyday life.

     

    Course Content

    The course will be presented as five thematic units:

    • Hot and Cold War (1930s – 1960)
    • The Times They Are a-Changin’ (1945-1975)
    • War, Dissent, and Protest (1960 – 1980)
    • Scandal, Revolution, and Ending the Cold War (1968 – 1993)
    • Into a New Century (1992 – Today)