World History
Explore major historical periods while developing essential skills for analyzing sources, interpreting data, and constructing evidence-based arguments.
What You'll Learn
- Understand the causes and consequences of the Age of Exploration, including the Columbian Exchange
- Analyze Enlightenment ideas and their influence on political revolutions
- Evaluate primary sources using the HAPP method (Historical context, Audience, Purpose, Point of view)
- Interpret historical maps, charts, graphs, and data visualizations
- Construct historical arguments using the claim-evidence-reasoning framework
- Apply critical thinking skills essential for SAT and ACT success
Before You Start
This unit builds on foundational skills from earlier grades. You should be comfortable with:
- Basic world geography (continents, major regions, and key countries)
- Reading and comprehending informational texts
- Understanding cause-and-effect relationships in history
- Writing organized paragraphs with topic sentences and supporting details
- Basic map reading skills (using legends, scales, and compass directions)
If you need to review these skills, visit the Social Studies subject page for earlier units.
SAT/ACT Alignment
This unit develops skills tested on standardized exams:
- SAT Reading & Writing: Information and Ideas - analyzing passages, evaluating evidence, understanding central ideas
- ACT Reading: Social Studies passages requiring analysis of arguments, evidence evaluation, and drawing conclusions
- Both tests: Interpreting data in charts, graphs, and tables; evaluating the strength of claims and evidence
Lessons
1
2
3
4
5
6
Age of Exploration
European exploration, colonization, and the Columbian Exchange
The Enlightenment
Key thinkers, natural rights, and influence on revolutions
Primary Source Analysis
Evaluating historical documents using the HAPP method
Maps and Data
Interpreting historical maps, charts, graphs, and tables
Claim-Evidence Writing
Constructing historical arguments with evidence and reasoning
Unit Checkpoint
Assessment covering all world history skills and content