Class I History: Foundations of Ancient Civilizations (Yearlong)

In this course, students explore the foundations and developments of early human societies by studying the ancient civilizations of Mesopotamia, Egypt, Greece, and Rome. Through examination of geography, archaeological evidence, and primary source documents, students will learn how these civilizations developed political, religious, cultural, and economic systems that left lasting legacies that persist into the modern world. Using a comparative approach, students identify similarities among societies and their distinctive qualities and contributions. The goal of the course is to help students understand how geography influences societal development, how belief systems shape societies, and how ancient civilizations continue to be reflected in today’s modern government, language, architecture, and culture. An equally important aim of this course is to teach Class I students to think and read like a historian. As students grow as active learners and critical thinkers, they will develop skills to analyze historical events, conduct historical research, and craft cohesive and persuasive arguments in class discussions and writing assignments.

Class II History: Cultural Traditions and Encounters (Yearlong)

Class II History examines civilizations and centers of cultural exchange that emerged in Asia and Africa during the ancient and medieval periods. The course emphasizes regional cultural developments and the connections among societies, particularly those facilitated by the Silk Road, a vast network of land and sea trade routes linking East Asia to the Mediterranean and, through the Indian Ocean, to India and East Africa. Through this network, diverse peoples interacted across great distances, fostering the exchange of ideas, religions, technologies, goods, artistic traditions, and scientific knowledge. Students explore how these interactions shaped civilizations. For example, they investigate the spread of Buddhism from India to China, the transmission of mathematical and scientific knowledge across Central Asia and the Islamic world, and the movement of artistic and musical traditions across regions. Through projects, document-based inquiries, and collaborative activities, students develop historical thinking skills. Emphasis is placed on analytical writing, constructing evidence-based arguments, analyzing primary and secondary sources, and conducting research. The course culminates with a Caravanserai project, in which students work collaboratively to explore how cultural exchange influenced the development of societies along the Silk Road.

Class III History: Civics: Foundations and Practice of American Democratic Ideals (Yearlong)

Civics is a yearlong course designed to deepen students’ understanding of civic participation and help them develop the skills needed to be confident, informed members of their communities. The curriculum supports students in exploring and shaping their emerging civic values and identities while building a strong foundation in the principles of American government. Throughout the course, students examine the founding ideas behind the United States government and develop an understanding of the structure and functions of its three branches. They investigate how rights and responsibilities have evolved, analyze key moments when those rights were challenged, and consider how individuals and groups have worked to defend and expand them. The course also explores voting rights as an important lever of change and emphasizes media literacy skills that support thoughtful and responsible digital citizenship. Through a series of unit projects, students practice applying civic knowledge and historical thinking skills to real-world issues. With a focus on local concerns, students extend their learning beyond the classroom and into the community. The course culminates in a student-led civics project addressing a topic relevant to the Boston area.

Class IV History: The Birth of Modern Europe (Yearlong)

In Class IV, History students continue with the theme of cultural encounters and cultural exchanges developed in Class III History. This course explores how European states emerged as dominant world powers by the 1500s despite their lack of unity and financial strength at the conclusion of the Crusades in the 1200s. In particular, we consider how European ways of thinking shifted as its citizens entered the modern age. Significant time is spent examining the Black Death, the development of capitalism, the Renaissance, the Reformation, and the advent of strong monarchs. Students will also consider how these events shaped the way Europeans saw themselves as well as those around them. Finally, we will examine how Europeans used their new knowledge and power to conquer and subjugate the citizens of the New World.