HIS 111 U. S. History: Pre-Civil War

This course is a survey of U.S. History from the Pre-Columbian period through the Civil War (c. 1865). The course focuses on political, social, cultural, and economic factors that shaped the pattern of life in the United States during this period along with themes that illuminate current events.

Credits

3

Prerequisite

Prerequisites: SSC 100 or concurrent

See Course Syllabus

Course Number and Title:

HIS 111 U. S. History: Pre-Civil War

Campus Location

  • Dover
  • Georgetown
  • Wilmington
  • Stanton

Effective Date

2024-52

Prerequisites

Prerequisites: SSC 100 or concurrent

Course Credits and Hours

3 credit(s)

3 lecture hours/week

0 lab hours/week

Course Description

This course is a survey of U.S. History from the Pre-Columbian period through the Civil War (c. 1865). The course focuses on political, social, cultural, and economic factors that shaped the pattern of life in the United States during this period along with themes that illuminate current events.

Required Text(s)

Obtain current textbook information by viewing the campus bookstore - https://www.dtcc.edu/bookstores online or visit a campus bookstore. Check your course schedule for the course number and section.

Core Course Performance Objectives (CCPOs)

  1. Compare patterns and connections between and among historical developments and processes, including current events. (CCC 1, 3, 4, 5)

  2. Use evidence to conduct historical research (CCC 1, 2, 5)

  3. Compare the beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors of European explorers toward indigenous inhabitants of North America. (CCC 1, 2, 4, 5)

  4. Describe the structure of the English colonial system established in North America. (CCC 1, 2, 5)

  5. Analyze the events that led to the Revolutionary War. (CCC 1, 2, 5)

  6. Explain the importance of major philosophers, political thought, and documents that became the foundation of the United States. (CCC 1, 2, 5)

  7. Discuss the importance of the Constitutional Convention and the Constitution in determining the future of the United States. (CCC 1, 2, 5)

  8. Describe the effects of American expansionism, slavery, and industrial development on the groups impacted by these activities. (CCC 1, 2, 4, 5)

  9. Analyze key factors that moved the nation toward the Civil War. (CCC 1, 2, 4, 5)

See Core Curriculum Competencies and Program Graduate Competencies at the end of the syllabus. CCPOs are linked to every competency they develop.

Measurable Performance Objectives (MPOs)

Upon completion of this course, the student will:

  1. Compare patterns and connections between and among historical developments and processes, including current events.

    1. Describe patterns among or connections between historical developments and processes.

    2. Explain how a historical development or process relates to another historical development or process, including current events.

  2. Use evidence to conduct historical research.

    1. Describe the major types of evidence used in conducting historical research.

    2. Describe the major research techniques used to study history.

    3. Select the appropriate research technique/method given a historical situation.

  3. Compare the beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors of European explorers toward indigenous inhabitants of North America.

    1. Describe the existing indigenous groups prior to the arrival of European explorers and their lasting impact.

    2. Identify the countries that sent explorers to the New World.

    3. Distinguish between specific explorers; the reasons for their explorations, and the lasting impact of their exploits.

    4. Compare and contrast the treatment of indigenous people by European explorers.

  4. Describe the structure of the English colonial system established in North America.

    1. Explain the English colonial system.

    2. Discuss the lasting impact of the English colonial system.

  5. Analyze the events that led to the Revolutionary War.

    1. Identify the major events that led to the Revolutionary War.

    2. Summarize the views of the British, French, Colonists, and Native Americans.

    3. Describe events that were turning points during the war.

    4. Analyze the views of each side for its strengths and weaknesses.

  6. Explain the importance of major philosophers, political thought, and documents that became the foundation of the United States.

    1. Identify the major philosophers whose ideas shaped early American democracy.

    2. Interpret the major political documents that formed the basis for the United States.

    3. Explain the early theories of government and the compromises that emerged.

  7. Discuss the importance of the Constitutional Convention and the Constitution in determining the future of the United States.

    1. Identify basic factors that led to a Constitutional Convention.

    2. Explain the Constitution’s importance and why it is called a living document.

    3. Discuss the Constitution’s legacy and its impact on the course of American history.

  8. Describe the effects of American expansionism, slavery, and industrial development on the groups impacted by these activities.

    1. Explain the series of events known as American expansionism, slavery, and industrial development.

    2. Identify the various groups impacted by these events.

    3. Discuss the legacy of how each group was impacted.

  9. Analyze key factors that moved the nation toward the Civil War.

    1. Identify major events that moved the nation towards the Civil War.

    2. Discuss major personalities who contributed to the nation's movement toward the Civil War.

    3. Analyze the major issues and philosophical differences that moved the nation towards the Civil War.

    4. Analyze the Civil War and its lasting impact on the nation.

Evaluation Criteria/Policies

The grade will be determined using the Delaware Tech grading system:

90-100 = A
80-89 = B
70-79 = C
0-69 = F
Students should refer to the Catalog/Student Handbook for information on the Academic Standing Policy, the Academic Integrity Policy, Student Rights and Responsibilities, and other policies relevant to their academic progress.

Final Course Grade

Calculated using the following weighted average

Evaluation Measure

Percentage of final grade

Summative Assessments (Exams 3-5 equally weighted)

60%

Formative Assessments (quizzes, discussions, homework, in-class assignments)

25%

Paper/Project

15%

TOTAL

100%

Core Curriculum Competencies (CCCs are the competencies every graduate will develop)

  1. Apply clear and effective communication skills.
  2. Use critical thinking to solve problems.
  3. Collaborate to achieve a common goal.
  4. Demonstrate professional and ethical conduct.
  5. Use information literacy for effective vocational and/or academic research.
  6. Apply quantitative reasoning and/or scientific inquiry to solve practical problems.

Students in Need of Accommodations Due to a Disability

We value all individuals and provide an inclusive environment that fosters equity and student success. The College is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities. Students are encouraged to schedule an appointment with the campus Disabilities Support Counselor to request an accommodation needed due to a disability. The College's policy on accommodations for persons with disabilities can be found in the College's Guide to Requesting Academic Accommodations and/or Auxiliary Aids Students may also access the Guide and contact information for Disabilities Support Counselors through the Student Resources web page under Disabilities Support Services, or visit the campus Advising Center.

Minimum Technology Requirements

Minimum technology requirements for online, hybrid, video conferencing and web conferencing courses.