In Expanding Horizons, students will explore American history from 1800 through World War I—a time of expansion, upheaval, innovation, and reform. We'll examine the events, movements, and people who shaped the nation while asking big questions about liberty, justice, identity, and progress. Throughout the course, students will learn to view history as a series of patterns and cycles, using writing as a key tool to think critically, draw connections to the present, and develop their own historical perspective.

Writing will play a central role in our study. Students will respond to primary sources—including speeches, letters, newspaper articles, and photographs—and engage in thoughtful analysis through research projects, response papers, and creative assignments. Alongside this, we’ll read and discuss substantial historical books such as Uncle Tom’s Cabin and other key works that help bring the era to life. Book discussions will be supported by meaningful writing prompts and guided conversations that challenge students to dig deeper. Homework on average will take on average 2-3 hours per week and will include writing and reading assignments, including excerpts from A History of Us and thought-provoking video content that complements our in-class explorations.

Class sessions will be dynamic and interactive, filled with debates, simulations, games, and collaborative activities. Students will contribute to a timeline book, complete mapwork, and take part in projects like a fall history presentation and a spring family history project—connecting personal heritage to the broader American story. We’ll enrich our experience through guest speakers, field trips, and class movie nights each semester, creating a learning environment that is both intellectually rigorous and engaging. This is more than a history class—it’s a journey into the past that will equip students to think, write, and engage with the world in thoughtful, informed ways.