This course is survey of World History from circa 1200 CE to the present. By looking at history through the five overarching themes, students will explore the past while finding its relevance to the present. The emphasis will always be on the big picture, using a global perspective to look at the ways in which people and societies have been connected through time. The course emphasizes critical and analytical thinking, reading, and writing skills necessary for success in a college level history course. Course requirements will include essays, document-based questions, considerable college level outside reading, and frequent classroom discussions. Students will be strongly encouraged to take the Advanced Placement Exam in World History in May; those who achieve passing scores may be awarded college credit.