Weeks 1–2 · Observer
Identify systems, variables, observations, predictions, and model limitations.
Khaemenes Sr. High · Grade 9 Global Studies Honors
Historical Systems Laboratory
The same systems-thinking instrument develops gradually across the 36-week course. Students learn to model before they are asked to explain complex historical systems.
Core rule: Model behavior is not historical causation. A simulation generates observations and hypotheses; historical evidence is required for historical claims.
Progressive Skill Ladder
Weeks 3–5 · Mapper
Connect geography, environment, resources, settlement, and political organization.
Weeks 6–8 · Causation Investigator
Separate correlation from causation and test alternative explanations.
Weeks 9–12 · Network Analyst
Trace networks, feedback, knowledge, cities, states, and unintended consequences.
Weeks 13–17 · Exchange Analyst
Model flows of goods, people, ideas, technology, opportunity, and cost.
Weeks 18–23 · Historical Investigator
Compare scenarios with primary/secondary evidence and preserve uncertainty.
Weeks 24–25 · Systems Analyst
Analyze institutions, rights, revolutions, outcomes, and structural tradeoffs.
Weeks 26–27 · Applied Analyst
Connect industrialization and economic institutions to controlled modeling and historical evidence.
Weeks 28–36 · Forensic Historian
Use multi-variable systems, resistance/agency, scenario comparison, and qualified causal arguments.
Standard Lab Protocol
- State a historical question.
- Define the system and variables.
- Predict what the model will do.
- Change variables deliberately.
- Record observations and uncertainty.
- Identify alternative explanations.
- Locate historical evidence.
- Corroborate, challenge, or revise the model.
- Write a qualified conclusion.
Longitudinal Notebook
Students should preserve selected model observations, evidence notes, alternative explanations, and revisions throughout the year. By Week 36, the notebook becomes evidence of growth in systems thinking—not merely a collection of simulator scores.
Audit Priorities
- Every simulator activity must identify its assumptions.
- Model parameters must never be presented as historical measurements without independent sourcing.
- Assessment must reward reasoning, evidence, and qualification rather than a preferred political conclusion.
- Resistance, collaboration, negotiation, local knowledge, and missing voices must remain visible.
- Every major simulation should end with corroboration or falsification using historical evidence.
Khaemenes High · Grade 9 Global Studies Honors · Historical Systems Laboratory · 2026