Summit College Preparatory School, Inc.Summit College Preparatory School, Inc.Summit College Preparatory School, Inc.

U.S. History: Foundations & Civic Identity

U.S. History: Foundations & Civic Identity

Foundations of Civic Identity in U.S. History

The course U.S. History: Foundations & Civic Identity offers a deep dive into the key moments, ideas, and struggles that shaped the United States. From early colonial settlements to modern America, students explore how founding principles influenced law, rights, and democracy. This foundation is critical for understanding today’s civic identity.

Core Learning in U.S. History: Foundations

Through historical documents, debates, and research, students examine political systems, cultural change, and landmark events. U.S. History: Foundations & Civic Identity builds skills in analytical reading, persuasive writing, and historical interpretation—ideal for advanced learners.

Identity and Engagement

The course concludes by linking past events to modern civic engagement. Students reflect on national identity, constitutional change, and the role of citizens today. U.S. History: Foundations & Civic Identity prepares learners to participate thoughtfully in American democracy.

Grade Level: 10
Credits: 1
Delivery Format: Live Online (1:1 or Small Group)
Duration: Full Academic Year (194 instructional days)
Instructional Language: English

This U.S. History: Foundations & Civic Identity course traces the development of the United States from early colonial foundations through the present, examining key turning points, civic ideals, and constitutional evolution. Students analyze major political, economic, cultural, and social movements while learning to evaluate sources, debate ideas, and understand the diverse forces that have shaped the American experience.

Core Academic Content

Colonial America and Revolutionary Change

Constitutional Foundations and Early Republic

Civil War, Reconstruction, and National Identity

Industrialization, Immigration, and Urbanization

Progressivism, War, and Global Emergence

Great Depression, Civil Rights, and Modern Reform

Contemporary U.S. Politics, Society, and Global Role

Instructional Framework

Chronological and thematic instruction

Document-based inquiry and civic analysis

Academic writing and evidence-based research

Teacher-led learning with multilingual access

Designed for college-preparatory and gifted learners

Required Texts and Resources

Core U.S. history textbook or equivalent digital edition

Primary documents: Declaration, Constitution, court opinions

Speeches, letters, and public debates from diverse voices

Multimedia archives and teacher-curated video sources

Assessment Structure - U.S. History: Foundations & Civic Identity

Historical essays and source-based analysis

Debates, position papers, and civic simulation

Project-based assessments and visual timelines

Participation in Socratic-style discussions

Final capstone project or cumulative portfolio