African American History Curriculum – Little Learner and Mom

Choosing a history curriculum this year was not an easy task it was a huge struggle. I knew from the start that we didn’t want to spend weeks reviewing early U.S. history. Both my son and I wanted something different: a curriculum that allowed us to dig deeper into Indigenous, African, Hispanic, and Asian history, and to start our study at Reconstruction instead of repeating material we’ve already covered over and over again.

As my son often reminded me, “I know all of this why do we have to spend so much time going back through slavery?” I realized he was feeling the same way I was tired, re-traumatized, and ready to move forward. That’s when I decided it was time to shake things up and seek out resources that honored voices often left out of the mainstream narrative.

Why We Passed on a Traditional Approach

Most history curriculums for middle and high school start with the same framework: early exploration, colonial America, and then a heavy emphasis on slavery and the Revolutionary era. While important, this wasn’t what we needed this year. We wanted to move forward into parts of history that aren’t often highlighted, such as the Black towns that thrived in the late 1800s and 1900s, the rise of Black-owned banks, and the housing struggles that shaped African American communities.

We also wanted to explore the roles Indigenous, Asian, and Hispanic Americans played after the Civil War topics like the Chinese Exclusion Act, the Dawes Act, landmark court cases involving Black and Brown communities, the Chicano Moratorium, the Black Panther Party, and the Young Lords.

Shifting Perspectives: A Standout Choice

One of the first curriculums that caught our attention last year was Shifting Perspectives by Tanya Adkins. This resource instantly resonated with us. It didn’t shy away from hard truths, but instead encouraged students to engage thoughtfully with history.

What I loved most was how it revisited parts of U.S. history that we hadn’t fully covered in depth, filling in gaps while keeping the focus beyond the same repeated storylines. My son was excited about the structure, and we’re already eagerly awaiting the release of Volume 2. For those areas we wanted to revist this year they are on the list and planned out.

For anyone looking to bring in Afrocentric perspectives that go beyond surface-level coverage, this curriculum is a gem. Be sure to check out my full review of it for more details!

Mint & Bloom: Fresh Voices in History

Next, I flipped through Mint and Bloom’s new Middle School/High School History curriculum when it dropped this summer and was impressed by how they flipped the narrative. Their approach intentionally gives voice to the unheard and emphasizes stories that often get overlooked in standard textbooks.

I especially appreciated:

Interactivity: Activities that get kids thinking, analyzing, and connecting the past to the present.
Representation: Their textbook selections felt intentional and inclusive, bringing in diverse perspectives.

While we won’t be using it as a standalone this year, Mint & Bloom is going to be a strong partner in shaping our history journey, the great part is I already owned about 90% of the books

Oh Freedom High School: Pieces We’re Keeping

We also considered Oh Freedom High School, but ultimately Volume 1 wasn’t a perfect fit for what we were looking for this year. Still, I couldn’t walk away from it entirely. I really liked the journal component and some of the book selections, which we’ll be weaving into our studies.

Sometimes the best curriculum isn’t an all-or-nothing choice it’s about pulling what works for your family and leaving the rest.

Creating Our Own Path

After reviewing these resources, I decided to merge the best parts of each and write our own history plan. This way, we can focus on the topics that matter most to us: the hidden stories, the overlooked communities, and the rich contributions of people who shaped history but rarely get center stage in textbooks.

This blend allows us to honor Reconstruction, dive into critical turning points like the Chicano Moratorium and the Dawes Act, and explore movements like the Black Panther Party and the Young Lords in a way that feels empowering, not exhausting.

Conclusion: Reclaiming Our History

This journey taught me that it’s okay to say no to the traditional script and yes to something that works better for us. History isn’t just about memorizing dates—it’s about understanding whose voices are amplified and whose are silenced.

By blending Shifting Perspectives, Mint & Bloom, and select pieces from Oh Freedom, we’ve built a history curriculum that doesn’t retraumatize, but instead empowers. We’re reclaiming history in a way that brings truth, representation, and healing into our homeschool. The great part is we can take our time we use these histories over the next two years.

For us, history this year isn’t about what’s always been taught it’s about uncovering what’s been hidden.

We received Shift Perspectives: From Barriers to Freedom Volume 1 Through Reconstruction for our honest review!

As a homeschool mom committed to providing a well-rounded, culturally enriching education, I’m always on the lookout for high-quality, thought-provoking resources. Black Classical Academy’s new curriculum, Shift Perspectives: From Barriers to Freedom Volume 1 Through Reconstruction, has truly impressed me. This comprehensive curriculum includes both a textbook and a student workbook, designed to take middle school and high school students on an engaging journey through critical periods of American history, with a focus on African American experiences and contributions. Grab something hot to drink because this review is going to be a little longer then my traditional reviews!

Overview of the Curriculum

Shift Perspectives is a dynamic, multi-faceted curriculum that covers the history of African Americans from the inception of the transatlantic slave trade through the Reconstruction era. The textbook is rich in content, featuring primary sources, narratives, and critical analyses that bring history to life. The accompanying student workbook is equally robust, filled with activities that promote critical thinking, reflective writing, and collaborative learning.

Key Features

1. Comprehensive Content:

The curriculum delves into historical events with a focus on underrepresented narratives, highlighting the resilience and contributions of African Americans throughout history. It covers significant topics such as the impact of slavery, the fight for freedom, and the challenges of Reconstruction. Each chapter provides detailed accounts that challenge students to think critically about history and its long-term effects on society.

2. Engaging Student Workbook:

The student workbook complements the textbook beautifully, offering a range of activities that reinforce learning. From analyzing primary source documents to creative projects and topics such as “Impact of the Maafa on Capitalism” the workbook encourages students to engage deeply with the material. The reflective questions and essay prompts help students develop their analytical and writing skills.

3. Critical Thinking and Discussion:

One of the standout features of this curriculum is its emphasis on critical thinking and discussion. Each chapter ends with thought-provoking questions designed to inspire meaningful conversations. The curriculum is structured to encourage students to connect historical events to contemporary issues, fostering a deeper understanding of history’s relevance today.

4. Culturally Affirming:

I value resources that present history from diverse perspectives. Shift Perspectives does an excellent job of showcasing African American history not as a sidebar but as an integral part of the American story. It promotes cultural pride and awareness, helping students see themselves reflected in the history they study.

Who Would Benefit from This Curriculum?

Shift Perspectives is ideal for homeschool families, co-ops, and educators seeking to provide a more inclusive, in-depth study of American history. It is particularly beneficial for:

Middle School and High School Students: The content is accessible yet challenging, making it suitable for students from grades 7 and up. It provides a more nuanced understanding of history that goes beyond standard textbooks.

Families Seeking a Culturally Enriching Curriculum: This curriculum is perfect for families who want to teach history through the lens of African American experiences and contributions.

Students Interested in Social Justice and Advocacy: The curriculum’s focus on critical thinking and connecting past events to current social issues makes it a great fit for students passionate about social justice and advocacy.

Co-ops and Study Groups: The discussion-based format and group projects make this curriculum an excellent choice for homeschool co-ops and study groups looking for a structured yet flexible resource.

A History Curriculum We Can Relate To

When I discovered Black Classical Academy’s latest curriculum, Shift Perspectives: From Barriers to Freedom Volume 1 Through Reconstruction, I knew immediately that it was a must-have for our homeschool journey. My son, who usually approaches new curriculum with a healthy dose of skepticism, couldn’t contain his excitement when he saw it. In fact, I had to hide the textbook and student workbook over the summer to keep him from diving in too soon! He insisted on me spiral binding his workbook because he said needed to be able to really give each activity its attention and respect.

As an Afro-Latino homeschool mom, I am constantly searching for resources that not only educate but also resonate with my family’s heritage and experiences. Shift Perspectives has exceeded my expectations in every way. The curriculum doesn’t just present history; it invites students to engage with the stories and struggles of African Americans from pre-colonial times through Reconstruction. It’s a narrative that is often overlooked or simplified, but Tanya Adkins, the creator, has ensured that it’s told with nuance and respect.

My son was overjoyed to finally have a history curriculum that he could see himself in—one that delves into the complexities and triumphs of our shared history. He’s been eager to explore each lesson, and I can already see how this curriculum is deepening his understanding and appreciation of the past. It’s not just history; it’s his story.

The Care and Detail Make All the Difference

One of the standout features of this curriculum is the meticulous care and detail Tanya Adkins has put into crafting it. Every page reflects a commitment to accuracy, inclusivity, and engagement. From primary source documents to thought-provoking questions and activities, Shift Perspectives encourages students to think critically and empathetically about the events and figures that shaped this era.

As a homeschool mom, I am incredibly grateful for the effort that has gone into making this curriculum accessible and meaningful. It’s clear that this isn’t just another history book—it’s a labor of love designed to empower and educate a new generation of learners.

I wanted to respect Mrs. Adkins hard work and dedication, therefore I decided not to include screenshots of textbook and the workbook. Trust me you won’t be disappointed, head over to Black Classical Academy so you can see for yourself.

Eagerly Awaiting Volume 2!

We’re only a few weeks into using Shift Perspectives, and already, it has become a favorite in our homeschool routine. My son and I are both eagerly anticipating Volume 2. It’s rare to find a history curriculum that not only educates but also resonates on such a personal level, and I am thrilled to have found that with Black Classical Academy.

Thank you, Tanya Adkins, for your dedication to creating a curriculum that is not only educational but also empowering. We can’t wait to continue this journey through history with you! It’s not just a history lesson—it’s an invitation to shift perspectives and understand the past in a way that informs our present and future.

Category: African American History Curriculum

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