This course offers one of the deepest and most comprehensive studies of Colonial America and the Revolutionary War available in a single year. Scholars examine the founding of the United States, the Revolutionary War, and the development of the Constitution while considering what freedom truly means—and how life might look without those freedoms.
Scholars will study the lives of key Founders, evaluating the qualities that made them effective leaders. They will complete close document studies of foundational texts such as The Mayflower Compact and The Declaration of Independence, making thoughtful connections between these documents and modern life.
Throughout the year, scholars are challenged to read extensively, write weekly papers based on class discussion and assigned reading, and actively participate in mature, respectful colloquiums. Scholars may also choose to pursue awards by completing specific project requirements.
Scholars should plan to spend approximately 4–5 hours per week preparing for class, with an additional 1–2 hours per week if completing Above and Beyond requirements. Families should also account for additional time for slower readers or writers.
This class runs from September through April.