American Studies Minor (Level 2)
American Studies Single Honours (Level 2)
History Dual Honours (Level 2)
History Major (Level 2)
History Single Honours (Level 2)
The module seeks to engage students in a critical and analytical look at the central themes of America's domestic development in the twentieth century as a backdrop for understanding society and politics in the United States today. It offers a diversity of social, economic, political and cultural perspectives and will equip students with the basic historical tools for more detailed investigation. On the one hand the module examines the general political, social, and cultural undercurrents since 1900. On the other hand it takes a closer look at some of the key events and developments during the past century that left a long-term imprint on American society.
Apply their critical understanding of historical processes through the analysis of a range of primary and secondary texts relating to the development of the United States in the twentieth century. will be achieved by assessments: 1,2
Discuss and interpret texts and present findings in appropriate oral and written form.
will be achieved by assessments: 1,2,3
Evaluate evidence critically, argue logically, and challenge taken-for-granted assumptions. will be achieved by assessments: 1,2,3
12 one-hour seminars: 12 hours
Required readings and seminar preparation: 24 hours
Short Essay preparation: 30 hours
Exam preparation: 60 hours
Seminar Presentation preparation: 12 hours
This will have both formative and summative functions. It will enable students to apply their critical understanding of historical processes through the analysis of a range of primary and secondary sources and give them feedback on their knowledge and skills acquisition.
Unseen examination testing overall course content
Students will be able to choose from a range of set topics for a 15-minute seminar presentation to demonstrate the module&©s main learning outcomes. The presentation will count for half of this assessment element (i.e. 5% of the overall module mark). The remaining 5% will be awarded for seminar participation which is assessed according to effort as well as academic ability; i.e., evidence of preparation in response to set seminar topics, readiness to apply the preparation positively in class discussion and quality of contributions. The tutor will keep weekly records to support marks awarded. (See AMS Student Handbook for full details).
This document is the definitive current source of information about this module and supersedes any other information.