Subject: Social Studies

American History

Study U.S. history from colonization to the 21st century in this 10th-grade online American History course. Fully online and self-paced.

Course Type: Standard High School

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Credits: 1.0

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Course Description

The 10th-grade American History course takes students on a comprehensive journey through the political, social, economic, and cultural events that have shaped the United States from its earliest beginnings to the modern day. Students will explore Native cultures, colonization, independence, reform movements, the Civil War, industrialization, global conflicts, and contemporary challenges. Along the way, they will examine the causes and effects of major historical developments, the influence of key individuals and movements, and the ways American ideals have evolved over time.

This fully online, asynchronous course is designed for self-paced learning and includes 28 modules. Each module features engaging readings, guided activities, and quizzes to reinforce understanding. Students will also develop skills in analyzing historical sources, constructing evidence-based arguments, and making connections between past and present. Whether preparing for further study in history or building critical thinking skills for college and career readiness, this course offers a rich, standards-aligned foundation in U.S. history.

Course Objectives

Analyze the causes and impacts of major historical events in U.S. history.

Evaluate the roles of individuals and movements in shaping American society.

Describe how American ideals have been challenged and reshaped over time.

Interpret historical sources and use them to support analytical arguments.

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Course Contents

Module TitleModule Topic(s)
American Beginnings
The American Colonies
The American Revolution
The U.S. Constitution
A New Nation
Nationalism and Sectionalism
Opening the Frontier
Reform Movements
The Civil War
Reconstruction
Westward Expansion
Industrialization
Immigration and Urbanization
Progressivism
U.S. Imperialism
World War I
The Roaring Twenties
The Great Depression
The New Deal
World War II
The Cold War
The Postwar Boom
An Era of Social Change
Civil Rights
The Vietnam War
Transitions and Conservatism
Into a New Millennium
The United States in the 21st Century

Recommended Prerequisites

Carnegie Credits Explained: Our Approach vs. Trimester Credits

Carnegie Credit System
Excel High School follows the Carnegie Credit system, a widely recognized method of measuring student progress based on instructional hours. A single Carnegie credit reflects approximately 120 hours of coursework, typically completed over a full academic year.

Carnegie Credit vs. Trimester Credit
While Carnegie credits are awarded based on total hours over a year, trimester credits divide the school year into three terms. In a trimester system, students complete courses in shorter, intensive sessions, often earning partial credits (e.g., 0.33 or 0.5 per term). In contrast, Excel’s use of Carnegie credits ensures students have ample time to engage deeply with the material and develop a well-rounded understanding at a consistent pace.

Accreditation You Can Trust

Recognized & Respected Nationwide

At Excel High School, we are proud to be regionally accredited by Cognia, along with additional accreditations from NCA, SACS, NWAC, and the Middle States Association. Our programs meet the same rigorous standards as public schools, giving you the confidence of earning a well-respected diploma.

Global Recognition for Our Accredited Diplomas

Excel High School’s regionally accredited diploma is accepted by colleges and universities around the world. With our recognized accreditation, you can confidently pursue higher education wherever your journey takes you.

Accreditation You Can Trust

Recognized & Respected Nationwide

At Excel High School, we are proud to be regionally accredited by Cognia, along with additional accreditations from NCA, SACS, NWAC, and the Middle States Association. Our programs meet the same rigorous standards as public schools, giving you the confidence of earning a well-respected diploma.

Global Recognition for Our Accredited Diplomas

Excel High School’s regionally accredited diploma is accepted by colleges and universities around the world. With our recognized accreditation, you can confidently pursue higher education wherever your journey takes you.