- Appreciation of American History: Students should enjoy the study of American History. They should be interested in developing an understanding of the growth of our country as a nation as well as the richness of our cultural and artistic expressions.
- Reading Comprehension: Ability and willingness to read large segments of information with understanding and comprehension. Interest in reading and interpreting primary source documents and applying it to a historical time period.
- Solid Writing Skills: The student should possess the proper fundamentals of writing and be willing to write essays and research papers. Students should enjoy the writing process and be willing to hone their writing skills while practicing the discipline of historiography through numerous and varied written assignments.
- Critical Thinking Skills: The student should be able to intelligently discuss information gathered from reading and research. The student will be expected to participate in all class discussions.
- Note Taking: Ability to take notes on reading assignments. Students should also be willing to complete study guides for each chapter which include identifications, map work, and questions which include both short answers and longer essays.
- Analysis and Evaluation Skills: The student must be able, in written and oral form, to present answers to analysis and evaluation type questions.
- Research Skills: The student should be willing to learn proper research techniques and to apply these skills to search for information beyond what is presented in the text and in class notes.
- A Great Attitude: The student must welcome a challenge and be desirous of working at a level which is on par with many college level courses.
