World History

This class will move through world history more or less sequentially, from the beginning of recorded human history through the middle ages, exploring the development of civilization across a twelve-thousand year span. We will be using The Human Odyssey, Vol. 1: Prehistory Through the Middle Ages as our primary textbook, though many supplementary resources will be used throughout the course.

This class will require regular reading outside of class time, occasional homework assignments, note-taking, in-class discussion, and at least three projects and/or presentations during the course of the year. Ample assistance will be provided to enable students new to learning in this more structured way the support they need to glean what is expected of them.

NOTE: This text was selected with hesitancy, admittedly. It is an aesthetically beautiful book. It’s narrative style is akin to reading historical fiction at times, attempting to sweep up the reader in the smell and feel of the time, which should prove particularly engaging for young teens. However, this book—like so many historical texts—is very Euro/Western-centric. I will do my best to supplement the text with readings about the regions and peoples it glosses over, and the theme of who decides whose history is worth telling will be actively discussed by participants.

Instructor: Gina Varrichio

Required Materials: pen or pencil; notebook and folder or looseleaf notebook; The Human Odyssey, Vol. 1: Prehistory Through the Middle Ages (purchased separately by student)