History Odyssey Curriculum Review

History Odyssey is a chronological history program covering world history from ancient to modern times for grades one through twelve over three levels of study. Each level of study contains study guides that cover one major time period (ancient, medieval, early modern, and modern), and guide the instructor through a one-year program for their students. The study guide provides a framework for organizing the year and includes history and literature resources, as well as activity and project resources.

Level one of History Odyssey is meant for first through fourth grades and is specifically geared towards the elementary student with hands-on activities, crafts and cooking projects. It aims to present history as an exciting real story. Age-appropriate books are introduced and prepare students to read classical literature in level two. Modern Times is geared for grades three through six and is a bridge between levels one and two.

Level two is written for grades five and up. Level two students learn literary analysis, information organization, and research and writing skills. They also learn outlining, timeline analysis, geography and critical thinking through daily lessons meant to be used independently. Early Modern Times is geared for grades six and up and Modern Times for grades seven and up. These two study guides include writing assignments and literary analysis that are more difficult than those in the first two study guides for level two.

Level three is written for grades nine and up. Students read classic works by Plato, Shakespeare, and others, and learn to write persuasive arguments, form a thesis, and write research papers. Numerous writing and research assignments are included in this level in order to prepare students for college. Level three is not yet available for Early Modern and Modern Times.

History Odyssey by Pandia Press is available as an e-book and in a print edition.

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