U.S. History is a year-long college preparatory course designed to review and further develop students’ historical knowledge and academic skills. The course examines the subject of U.S. history as a record of a diverse people’s successes and failures as they attempt to actualize the ideals set forth by the Founders. Students will build on knowledge and skills they have learned in previous courses. The U.S. History course curriculum reflects standards, the state history-social science framework, and exemplifies cultural responsiveness to students’ backgrounds and lived experiences, while also being inclusive of local history as a reflection of national or regional events wherever possible. Through a process of research and inquiry, students will utilize primary and secondary sources to learn about the significant ideas, people, and events that have shaped the United States. The U.S. History course further develops students’ understanding of the American past through the development of reading, writing, listening, and speaking abilities; by reinforcing the intellectual and practical skills of a historian; and the introduction of more sophisticated American history course material that acknowledges both the similarities and differences within the diverse American experience of race and ethnicity, class, and gender distinctions; and with the intent of engaging students as critical and creative thinkers, prepared for college, career, and adult citizenship/civic engagement.