History and Current Issues Curriculum

The Choices Program draws on scholarship from Brown University to produce innovative curriculum and videos that make contested international issues accessible, engaging, and relevant to secondary school audiences.

New Unit

The Civil War and the Meaning of Liberty

Students probe the history of the United States from 1830 to 1865. Using primary sources, readings, and lessons, students consider the experiences of people in the U.S. as well as the issues driving the political confrontation over slavery and the meaning of liberty.

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Curriculum Content

Guiding Principles for Choices Content Development

Why use the Choices Program’s materials? What will your students gain? The Choices Program’s curriculum materials develop the skills and knowledge young people need to be informed global citizens capable of engaging in thoughtful discussions about history and decision making on contested contemporary policy issues.

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Digital Editions

The same award-winning content teachers expect from the Choices Program is now web based! Purchase an individual, site, or district license and always have the most up-to-date version of our materials.

Teaching with the News

Seeking Asylum in the United States

Students review a timeline of major laws and policies related to asylum in the U.S.

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World History

The Middle East: Questions for U.S. Policy

Students examine oil and geopolitics, issues between the Palestinians and Israel, the significance of the Iranian Revolution, and other issues that have shaped U.S. relations in the region.

Choices Workshops

Professional Development

Experience a hands-on, engaging day or two of learning built around Choices award-winning curriculum.

Free Lessons

Teaching with the News

Free lessons connect your classroom to headlines in the news.

Video Series on Iran

What are some misunderstandings that people in the U.S. have about Iran?

Explore Islamophobia, the roles of women, the oil industry, media and social media, the Green Movement, and more.

Videos featuring Johns Hopkins University anthropologist Narges Bajoghli address life and politics in Iran as well as the views of Iranians and Americans about each other’s countries.

Watch the videos