Students will analyze the human experience through time to recognize the relationships of events and people and to interpret significant patterns, themes, ideas, beliefs, and turning points in world history. The first semester covers history up to the age of exploration and colonization and focuses heavily on the development of civilizations that established the foundations for the modern historical era beginning around the 16th century. The second semester covers history from the era of Absolute monarchs in Europe to the present and focuses heavily on political, economic, and social developments that have shaped the world we live in today. There will also be a large focus on geography, especially where it is a significant factor in the shaping of historical events. The content of this course requires an emphasis on reading, writing, and critical thinking skills, which will be developed throughout the semester.