COURSE DESCRIPTION

This course is designed to establish a foundation of social studies skills through an in-depth study of a non-Western region of the world. The Middle East is the case study for this course due to its contemporary relevance in applying media literacy skills to analyze current events and multiple perspectives of primary and secondary sources. The region also helps to lay a foundation for historical context and connections to themes that will be addressed in 10th grade Modern World History. Students will study historical and cultural aspects of the Middle East that address common misconceptions of the region, impacts of interactions with the West, and major current issues in the news. The overarching goal of the course is for students to become better informed about an extremely complex region, grapple with potential resolutions to current conflicts, and become empowered to participate in a dialogue around a region that continues to play a significant role in the international relations of our world today.

Syllabus

What to bring to class everyday (*optional): 

• Planner, or some way to organize your To-Do list
• Fully charged chromebook
• Binder with a separate section for AMW
• Notebook or lined paper
• Pen or pencil
• Colored pencils*
• Post-It Notes*

Please wear layers this semester. I will continue to have the windows open and a fan running through the warm season, as well as the cold.

I'm looking forward to getting to know each one of you!