CENTRAL CHRISTIAN SCHOOL – HUTCHINSON, KS
Course: United States History-II (“The Progressive Era,” c.1900, to the present)
Instructor: James DeVries
Year: 2008-2009
Grade: 11
Credit: .5 per semester
Prerequisite: Recommended to have taken United States History-I
Text: United States History for Christian Schools, Bob Jones University Press
Philosophy:
The late Dr. Ruth Haycock listed six concepts central to a Christian philosophy of history:
- God has directed that written records be kept.
- God wants us to know history.
- God expects us to learn from history.
- God has a plan He is carrying to completion; history records the progress of that plan.
- God’s dealings in history show us what He is like.
- God holds believers responsible for fitting into His plan and being His instruments.
Major elements of this course:
The United States has long symbolized “liberty” and “justice” both to its own citizens and to many other people from all around the world. The chief goal of this course, as it continues chronologically from United States History-I, is aptly stated by historian Clarence B. Carson, [describing the goal of his own six-volume history of the United States] “. . . to . . . illuminate the American heritage, make clear the connection between constitutionally limited government and individual liberty, and describe as accurately as possible the background, developments, principles, and moral and spiritual framework within which freedom is most likely to exist.”
- The further settlement of the western portion of the nation after the War Between the States is reviewed as the course begins.
- The remarkable scientific, technological, and industrial achievements of the latter 19th century are similarly reviewed.
- The commendable achievements in literature and other cultural endeavors are noted, along with the more troubling aspects of “The Gilded Age.”
- The ideology of “Progressivism” and the leading personalities and programs of the movement are studied with care.
- The entire 20th century is now literally “history” presenting the challenge of understanding more fully the implications of events that occurred in the lifetimes of people we know personally.
- The two “World Wars” of the 20th Century are compared in detail.
- Current events are analyzed in the context of historical information.
Daily class rules:
All school policies, as related in the Student/Parent Handbook, regarding conduct, dress code, and readiness for class are in effect. The intent is that instructor and students work together as good stewards to make the most of our precious resources, especially the 45 minutes of time for each day’s class. Transitions from lecture to quiet, independent study should be quick and orderly. Students who are speaking should expect to have the full and courteous attention of all their classmates. To that end, students should raise their hand and be recognized by the teacher before speaking.
Homework and grading:
Students who work diligently and efficiently during the class times should have a minimal amount of homework. It will consist chiefly of completing or reviewing the assigned reading. On the first class day of each week (typically Monday), all assignments for the week are given so that each student can plan for any special personal circumstances during the week. Often, assignments are available for several weeks in advance. Some specific independent studies to be required of each student include one of the States added to the original 13 and one or more of the U.S. Presidents to serve since 1897.
Grades are based upon students’ demonstrated understanding and retention of information and concepts presented in the text, in class lectures and discussions, and other class activities. Frequent quizzes are followed by chapter and unit and semester tests of a cumulative nature.
Contact information:
E-mail: jdevries@centralchristianschool.net or jamesdevries@hotmail.com |
