Tracing Back: History & Current Events

Tracing Back: History & Current Events

Middle and High School

Summary

Project-based learning model.
Student input on the object of study.
Self-directed learning with checkpoints and assessments.
Class size maximum: 10 students.
Discussion-based live classes.
Additional live or asynchronous interaction with faculty members.
One, weekly, 2-hour weekly live class.
End of Term Display of Learning: deliverable presentation in visual, audio, or print media on the chosen area of study.
Student assessment provided for homeschooled students and those who request it.
Duration: 6 Weeks.

Dates & Duration

Middle School Level (6th-8th)

Session 1: September 17- October 22, 2020
Session 2: October 29- December 10, 2020
Session 3: January 7- February 11, 2021
Session 4: February 25- April 8, 2021
Session 5: April 22- May 27, 2021

High School Level: (9th-12th)

Session 1: September 15- October 20, 2020
Session 2: October 27- December 8, 2020
Session 3: January 5- February 9, 2021
Session 4: February 23- April 6, 2021
Session 5: April 20- May 25, 2021

tuition

We are in a pandemic, and we want as many people to have access to high-quality education as possible.

We are adopting a sliding scale model, from $150 to $800.

Course Description

How do we find the historical roots of current events? What can history teach us about what is happening today- and how can students use research and analysis to reach their own well-informed conclusions?

This course aims to answer these questions, and is designed for students with an interest in history, social issues, or current events.

The salient and most important element of this course is our Informed Free Expression Project: students will research and study a self- selected current event, societal trend, or a modern complex problem which they believe will have a deep impact in 20 years or more.

Participants will be mentored through research and analysis towards the production of a final project which will serve as our display of learning for publication in print, visual media, or any other outlet selected by the student.

The reason we use displays of learning to an authentic audience is because they constitute one of the most effective motivators for learning, which generally assures meaningful skill development and academic advancement. Furthermore, presenting self- created material to an authentic audience is also an ‘essential experience’ in adolescent development, which enhances intellectual confidence and communication skills. This course is suitable for homeschool students as well as for students from institutional schools with insufficient history curriculum.

Learning Intentions

To develop historical research, analysis and storytelling methods;
To exercise self- paced learning on a topic of interest, and how to review and modify learning and executive function skills;
To construct an expression of learning and present it before an authentic audience.

Dates & Duration

Middle School Level (6th-8th)
- Live Class time: One class per week, 2 hours, on Tuesday from 10-12 noon
  
  Asynchronous time estimate: 3-4 hours per week.

Session Dates
- Session 1: September 17- October 22, 2020
- Session 2: October 29- December 10, 2020
- Session 3: January 7- February 11, 2021
- Session 4: February 25- April 8, 2021
- Session 5: April 22- May 27, 2021

High School Level: (9th-12th)
- Live Class Time: One class per week, 2 hours, on Thursday from 1 pm-3 pm
  
  Asynchronous time estimate: 3 hours per week, mostly reading and researching news items.

Session Dates
- Session 1: September 15- October 20, 2020
- Session 2: October 27- December 8, 2020
- Session 3: January 5- February 9, 2021
- Session 4: February 23- April 6, 2021
- Session 5: April 20- May 25, 2021

cost

We are in a pandemic, and we want as many people to have access to high-quality education as possible.

We are adopting a sliding scale model, from $150 to $800.

Financial assistance policy

Our intention is to provide high-quality education for all motivated students. With that in mind, we will not reject any motivated student solely for financial reasons. We offer full and partial scholarships, and are committed to working with parents to work out solutions. If you wish you to request financial assistance, please check the appropriate box in our booking form.