Garibaldi Secondary Mr.

Ludeman International Baccalaureate Programme Course Outline

History of the Americas (Higher Level)

Introduction This course consists of an in depth study of the twentieth century. We will study significant world events, issues, and individuals, with special emphasis on the Americas (Canada, the United States, and Latin America). Our investigations will be carried out on two levels: firstly, students will gain an in-depth knowledge of the events, their causes and their effects. Secondly, students will develop skills that allow them to look at these events from different perspectives, analyze historical documents and arguments, and express their own historical ideas fluently and confidently. It is hoped that students will value the study of history in its own right: that their studies will enrich their lives and further their insights into the world we live in, how we got here, and the problems we face. More practically, however, students will also develop skills recognized by universities and employers: how to gather, evaluate, and analyze information and how to communicate complex ideas effectively. Units of Study During the first year we will cover the first half of the twentieth century, up to the Second World War. Topics will include the causes, course and consequences of the First World War, the interwar crisis, and a study of life in the Americas during the Depression. We will complete an depth study of various single party states, including Nazi Germany, Soviet Russia, Fascist Italy, Maos China and Castros Cuba. We will end the year with a study of the causes and course of the Second World War, with a special focus on the home front. During this year we will also complete the Historical Investigation, which is a major research paper required by IB. The second year of the course will cover the second half of the twentieth century mainly the Cold War. We will focus on the causes and early history of the Cold War, survey the major events of the conflict, and conduct a study of the collapse of communism in Eastern Europe. Then we will turn to political developments within the Americas during the time period 1945-1979. We will also complete a major project on Wars of the Twentieth Century. Near the end of the second year we will set aside some time to prepare for the IB exams, which take place in May. Policies and Procedures Behaviour You need not be reminded that the classroom is a place where teaching and learning happens. Expect consequences for any actions or behaviours that interrupt a productive learning environment. Arrive to class on time, remain on task at all times, and keep noise appropriate to the task at hand. Most importantly, respect the opinions and ideas of your classmates. Absences Bring a note from a parent explaining all absences. It is your responsibility to find out what you missed during your absence. Frequent or extended absences will make it very difficult to keep up with the course requirements.

Missed tests All missed tests must be made up on the day you return. You cannot make up test missed from an unexcused absence. Plagiarism If part or all of your work is copied from another source (without proper citation), you will receive a zero. Repeated offenses will be reported to the office and you may be withdrawn from the course. Work load At this level, it is expected that homework will always be completed, except very rarely, in extenuating circumstances. Therefore, late work will not be accepted without a note/phone call/discussion with a parent. Expect to have homework every night. Assessment Each interim report card will be based on a combination of tests, quizzes, and in-class essays, and various written and oral assignments and projects. Whenever possible, IB assessment markbands will be used to familiarize students with the expectations of the IB program. Your school based mark will be calculated cumulatively using the following formula: Test and Quizzes Homework habits Projects Ultimately, your final grade in this course will be based on the following: External Assessment (three tests, or Papers, to be written in May of the second year, and sent to the IB organization for marking) Internal Assessment (a Historical Investigation, based on a topic of the students choice, to be completed by February of the second year, marked by your teacher and moderated by the IB organization) 80% 20% 40% 20% 40%

This course fulfills the requirements for Group 3 (Individuals and Societies) of the IB Diploma Programme. Up to seven points may be awarded towards a students IB diploma. Teacher Availability I am often available lunch hours and after school, and you are encouraged to meet with me to discuss your individual needs and questions. Please take note of my contact information. Email is also the best way for parents to get in touch with me. o Email: kyle_ludeman@sd42.ca o School phone: 604.463.6287