Mastering the Past: Unlocking Excellence in High School History
Hello!
I am super happy to announce the publication of my latest, Mastering the Past: Unlocking Excellence in High School History. I wrote this for history students who want to really crush it - for those who reject mediocrity and have an earnest desire to do well in class AND really understand how the discipline works. I kept it short - only 69 pages, and inexpensive - less than 8 bucks, so it is accessible to everyone.
Included are many of the things that I teach my own students beginning in the 9th grade and continuing through graduation with incrementally increased levels of difficulty and sophistication. By the time they are ready to go off to college, my students are well prepared to tackle the most challenging themes and concepts, the vast historical record, and they know how to write with clarity.
And…I’ve included an interactive component right here on this website - explaining and engaging important topics and concepts in a forum setting - comments are welcome!
In the book, I cover:
Historiography - what it is and why students should familiarize themselves with some of the big historiographical shifts.
How to approach the historical record with an eye towards understanding bias and perspective - exploring historical contexts.
Organizing and executing all parts of an argumentative essay.
Critical thinking and intellectual honesty both in historical writing and class discussion.
Truth and objectivity and why it’s actually important.
Maximizing one’s potential in and out of the classroom - some valuable tips and advice that my very best students tend to embrace with gusto.
So - if you are a history student (whether APUSH or any class really) or you know a history student that could benefit from some straight forward and honest advice from a 20+ year veteran teacher, please pick up a copy of this book!
Peace,
Keith