In World History I, students continue to develop and expand their historical thinking and critical literacy skills. Students in World History I analyze the social, political, cultural and economic characteristics of complex societies and empires of major historical periods, from ancient civilizations through early modern empires. Students analyze the role of innovation and geography on the formation of early complex societies and compare the development of nation-states across geographic regions.

This course prepares students to grapple with the implications of global contact, colonization and conflict in World History II. In World History I, students use historical thinking skills to analyze artifacts, images and sources to make claims about the past. Students evaluate different interpretations of significant events and texts using context and corroboration. Students study global events from multiple perspectives and strengthen their ability to evaluate accuracy, credibility and bias in historical source material.