Foundations

Foundations is a two-semester, apprentice-level (ages 12-14) class. Foundations will cover Pre-Colonial through Revolutionary War history as well as the Declaration of Independence, Constitution, and Bill of Rights of the United States of America. We will experience fun, interesting, and intriguing games, activities, and experiences to help you comprehend this significant period in world history. We will look at both well-known and lesser-known peoples, figures, and historical occurrences that shaped the patterns and practices of our country. We will acknowledge the mistakes and failures even as we celebrate the victories. Together we will attempt to understand the importance of the statement found in the Declaration of Independence "All men are created equal."

Students will be expected to complete the required readings, submit weekly idea papers, give two oral presentations, engage in book discussions, familiarize themselves with significant selections, and memorize a few things. Optionally, they can complete a variety of other enrichment activities of their choice, including memorizing most of the Declaration of Independence. 

Time

12:30-2:30

Ages

12-14

Mentors  

Brenda LaMont


Heather Hamberger

Level
Apprentice 


Depth or Breadth? 

Depth

Tuition

$50


Winter Semester

$40

Prerequisites

None

Materials Required

Every student is expected to have an ASA timeline book. If they don't have one from a previous class then need to buy a new one during registration

Pencil or pen.

Homework

To do weekly: Read about 30 pages from your book. Sometimes reading from the History of US book. Write (type or handwritten) an idea paper. Fill out class coversheet. Sometimes watch short video clips.

Once per semester: give a presentation in front of the class.

During the year memorize the pledge of allegiance and the Preamble of the Constitution.

Additionally if you desire can memorize the Declaration of Independence (except the grievances about the King), and other extra things.

We anticipate the homework taking 1-2 hours each week. 

Notes

We will be reading books from the point of view of different people living in our country during the time period of Foundations. There will be two book options given for each viewpoint (or lens) that we are reading. You will choose one book to read out of the two options.

Books Students Provide

FULL YEAR:

Title: History of US Book TWO by Joy Hakim
Required: yes
Own or share with sibling? Can share (look for inexpensive copies on eBay!)
Notes: 
Purchase here on Amazon.

Title: History of US by Joy Hakim Book THREE
Required: yes
Own or share with sibling? Can share (look for inexpensive copies on eBay!)
Notes: 
Purchase here on Amazon.

FALL:

Title: Children of the Longhouse
Required: optional (This book is for our Native American lens. Choose to read either Children of the Longhouse or Peacemaker.)
Own or share with sibling? Can share
Notes:
 Purchase here on Amazon.

Title: Peacemaker 
Required: optional (This book is for our Native American lens. Choose to read either Peacemaker or Children of the Longhouse.)
Own or share with sibling? Can share
Notes: 
Purchase here on Amazon.

Title: Almost Home - Mary Chilton Story 
Required: optional (This book is for our Pilgrim viewpoint. Choose between this book or Landing of the Pilgrims.)
Own or share with sibling? Can share
Notes: 
Purchase here on Amazon.

Title: Landing of the Pilgrims
Required: optional (This book is for our Pilgrim viewpoint. Choose between this book or Almost Home.)
Own or share with sibling? Can share
Notes: 
Purchase here on Amazon.

Title: Chains 
Required: optional (Read Chains during our winter break for our slavery viewpoint. You may choose another book about slavery if you want. The time period of the book needs to be during the USA Colonial era.)
Own or share with sibling? Can share
Notes: 
Purchase here on Amazon.

WINTER:

Title: The Reb and the Redcoats 
Required: optional (Choose between either The Reb and the Redcoats or Susanna's Midnight Ride for the books showing the viewpoint during the Revolutionary War.)
Own or share with sibling? Can share
Notes: 
Purchase here on Amazon.

Title: Susanna's Midnight Ride 
Required: optional (Choose between either The Reb and the Redcoats or Susanna's Midnight Ride for the books showing the viewpoint during the Revolutionary War.)
Own or share with sibling? Can share
Notes: 
Purchase here on Amazon.