American History By Era

Description

As I get older, I realize how little I really know about history. When I read books like those in this series, I realize that other history texts tend to teach only the main points and leave out the fine details that make history so interesting. Fortunately, the American History by Era series does not forget the details!

This series presents American history from the earliest times to present day in a collection of articles that tell the unique story of America. Every chapter begins with a detailed overview of the specific period. Articles by a variety of authors - professors, historians, and even the words of well-known historical figures unfold the true story of our nation. There is no concern for political correctness as you read about politics, wars, economics, social change, and cultural trends. Each book is intended to present a concise summary of each period of history using primary and secondary source documents, bibliographies, and chronologies - there are no illustrations or pictures. It is important to remember that every writer presents his or her story through their own bias, but this is an opportunity for readers to read critically.

Some folks have compared this series to the Clarence Carson series, A Basic History of the United States, which is now out of print. Each is a collection of historical information that doesn't always align to what might be read in a history textbook, but while the Clarence Carson series is presented from a Christian perspective, the American History by Era series provides a secular perspective on the events that have formed the United States. The books vary in length according to the period of history being covered, and while they tend to be on the pricey side for a softcover book, they are very readable and present more history than your average textbook. This series is probably more for the true history buff and those who already have a basic understanding of American history. If you want "the rest of the story", this series is worth the money, and it isn't just for students - adults who want to fill the gaps in their history knowledge will really benefit from this series. ~ Donna

Teaching Method
Traditional
Teacher-centered curriculum commonly used in classrooms that may include a text, teacher manual, tests, etc.
Charlotte Mason
A methodology based on the work of a 19th century educator who maintained that children learn best from literature (Living Books), not textbooks.
Classical
A methodology based on the Latin Trivium (three stages of learning), including the grammar stage (memorization and facts), logic stage (critical thinking), and rhetoric stage (developing/defending ideas).
Unit Study
A thematic or topical approach centered around one topic that integrates multiple subject areas.
Montessori (Discovery)
A methodology based on the work of a 20th century educator that emphasizes student and sensory-driven discovery learning and real-life applications.
Other
Other methodologies
Religious Content
Secular
Contains content contrary to common Christian beliefs (i.e. evolution).
Neutral
Avoids religious or theoretical topics or presents multiple viewpoints without preference.
Christian/Religious
Faith-based or including instructional religious content.
Learning Modality
Auditory
Learns through listening, talking out loud or reading out loud.
Visual
Learns through seeing, prefers written instructions and visual materials.
Kinesthetic/Tactile (Hands-On)
Learns through moving, doing and touching.
Multi-Sensory
Curriculum that employ a variety of activities/components.
Presentation
Sequential
Curriculum progresses through well-defined learning objectives. Emphasizes mastery before moving to the next topic.
Spiral
Topics and concepts are repeated from level to level, adding more depth at each pass and connecting with review.
Conceptual/Topical
Focus is on the “why,” often with a unifying concept as well as specific skills; coverage may be broader.
Teacher Involvement
Low Teacher Involvement
Student-led materials; parent acts as a facilitator.
Medium Teacher Involvement
A mix of teacher-led time and independent student work.
High Teacher Involvement
Teacher-led lessons; may utilize discussions, hands-on activities and working together.
Additional Materials Required
No other materials needed
Everything you need is included.
Other Materials Required
There are additional required resources that are a separate purchase.
Other Materials Optional
There are additional resources mentioned or recommended but are not absolutely necessary.
Consumable
Consumable
Designed to be written in; not reusable.
Non-Consumable
Not designed to be written in; reusable.