Historical Movie Curriculum – High School

Description

Challenge High Schoolers with Critical Historical Thinking

The Historical Movie Curriculum – High School invites teens to investigate history through the lens of storytelling, ethics, leadership, and societal change. Built for Grades 9–12, this 36-week curriculum uses acclaimed historical films as catalysts for deep, analytical thinking.

Each weekly unit features a historical overview, film selection, vocabulary set, and writing/discussion prompts tailored to promote higher-order thinking. Students will explore complex issues such as colonization, civil rights, propaganda, gender roles, and global conflict with maturity and insight.

Designed for use in homeschools, co-ops, or classrooms, this course helps students build historical literacy and rhetorical strength.

🔑 Features & Learning Objectives:

• Covers 36 pivotal films representing global and U.S. history

• Emphasizes argumentative and narrative writing

• Encourages research, debate, and ethical inquiry

• Reinforces civic awareness, historical empathy, and cultural analysis

• Built-in connections to ELA standards and college prep

• Digital PDF for flexible learning in any environment

• Ideal for grades 9–12

🎬 Major Themes:

• Ancient Civilizations & Empires

• Revolution, Reform, and Resistance

• War, Peace, and Political Movements

• Race, Gender, Power, and Innovation

• Modern Civil Rights & Media Narratives

🌐 Extend the Learning:

Use Etymonline for advanced word studies or dive into how narrative shapes history with the Linguistic Society of America.

🔗 Browse the Historical Movie Bundle
🔗 View More High School Resources

📥 Format & Delivery:

Digital PDF curriculum ready for instant download and printing. Usable across platforms and adaptable for independent or group instruction.

🎯 Ideal For:

• Homeschoolers preparing for college-level analysis

• Co-op educators planning group discussions

• Teachers incorporating film in U.S. or World History classes

Students will build the ability to contextualize history, analyze media critically, and express complex ideas in thoughtful ways.