US History II: Modern United States History, 1865 – Present

IHS Course Syllabus: Spring 2008 – 09

Teacher: Mr. Ames

Contact Information:

Phone: (978) 356-3137, ext. 133

E-mail: sames@ipswichschools.org

Extra Help available: Monday after school and during Directed Study – other times by appointment.

Required Text: Danzer, Gerald A., et. al. ed. The Americans. Boston: McDougal

Littell, 2003.

Course Description:

This course will survey the history of the United States from Reconstruction to the present, with an emphasis on the contemporary era. Throughout the course, we will explore the events and people that made the United States the nation it is today. As a part of that task, we will look at the motives of the many players and the reception of various actions taken in the name of America. As we approach the modern era, it will become more important how our actions are perceived and what reactions they cause – both here and overseas.

Since we are in an inaugural year, we will also explore the 2008 election – the candidates, the issues, and the various stands taken by the major candidates. We will also take time to look at the changing perception of the United States throughout the course.

Instruction methods will vary, depending upon the topic at hand. Methods will include lecture, discussion, debates, oral and Power Point presentations, Internet projects, and other types of classroom experiences.

Units of Study and Essential Questions:

Unit 1: Reconstruction and Expansion

Essential Questions:

Ø Was Reconstruction a success or a failure?

Ø What impact did the Civil War have on different Americans?

Unit 2: Industrialization and the Gilded Age

Essential Question:

Ø How do new ideas and people create conflict and stimulate change?

Unit 3: America as a World Power

Essential Question:

Ø How did America’s changing role in the world reflect its new outlook?

Unit 4: The Interwar Years: 1918 - 1940

Essential Questions:

Ø How were the 1920s both a reaction to World War I and a cause of the Great Depression?

Ø What are the roles and responsibilities of a democratic government?

Unit 5: The Great War

Essential Question:

Ø What can be learned about American character from the manner by which the U.S. participated in World War II?

Unit 6: The Cold War and Conformity

Essential Question:

Ø How does living through a war change a nation?

Unit 7: The New Frontier

Essential Question:

Ø What are the benefits and consequences of questioning/challenging the status quo?

Unit 8: The Turbulent Decade, The 1970s

Essential Question:

Ø Does conflict bring a nation together or tear it apart?

Unit 9: The 1980s and 1990s: Contemporary America

Essential Question:

Ø What are the responsibilities for the United States in this new “Global Village?”