10/02/08

Modern European History

What is this course about?

The course is a survey of modern European history from the Renaissance and Reformation through the modern era.  A variety of topics will be covered, including the rise of nation-states, the development of cultural and intellectual movements and institutions, the great revolutions, war and its aftermath, social and family life, and contemporary issues such as the emergence of the European Union, immigration, and Islam in Europe.  Along the way students will be asked to read both primary and secondary sources, learn how to critically analyze text and meaning in historical context, and master both objective content and subjective argument.

Topics to be Covered in the First Semester

1. Renaissance and Reformation

2. The Rise of the Modern State in the Seventeenth and Eighteenth Centuries

3. Intellectual and Cultural Changes of the Sixteenth and Seventeenth Centuries

4. Economic Changes in the Eighteenth Century and the Transatlantic Economy

5. The Enlightenment

6. The French Revolution

7. The Age of Napoleon

8. The Restoration of the Early Nineteenth Century

Who am I?

Dr. Joel A. Siepierski

Phone: 875-8212 x218

E-mail: jsiepierski@nicholsschool.org

Course Web Page: http://nicholsnet.nicholsschool.org/teachers/jsiepierski

Books:

Kagan, Ozment, and Turner.  The Western Heritage since 1300, Ninth edition

Madame de Lafayette.  The Princess de Cleves (Fall)

George Orwell.  1984 (Spring)

How are students graded?

In general, each quarter will contain a mixture of assignments that fall into four main categories: tests, quizzes, homework, and participation.  Tests will be given regularly throughout the year, with at least two chapter tests a quarter.  Study materials for chapter tests will be given out at the appropriate times.  Quizzes will also be given and will typically be announced, but I reserve the right to give pop quizzes as needed.

Students will engage in writing quite often during the year.  Count on a written assignment every two weeks or so.  Good essay writing skills, as well as development of research writing, will be an important aspect of the course.

Non-essay homework such as handouts, identifications, etc. will be regularly assigned.  Homework assignments may include folder and note checks.  Students are expected to take notes in class and for assigned reading.  I will start the year teaching students specific note-taking skills.

Participation and presentation will be common aspects of the course.  This will vary between informal discussion of reading and class material to more formal assigned presentations of specific topics by students.