Mission: California!
$628.30
NEW Course! “Did you know that before becoming a state, most of what we now know as California declared itself a self-governing nation? That’s not all! There are so many interesting facts to uncover. Come join us as we embark on a journey to discover more about California and its history!” ~Dr. Kirsten Stein
Enrollment
Available
Step 1: Register Your Student
Step 2: Enroll Your Registered Student
| Instructor | Dr. Kirsten Stein |
| Content Levels | Grades 3-4 • Elementary Grades 5-6 • Upper Elementary |
| Course Length | 32 Weeks - Year-long |
| Live Webinars Held On | Thursdays, 11:00 - 11:50 AM Pacific - 8/14/25 - 5/16/26 |
| Additional Components | Asynchronous Option Presentation Option |
What makes California so interesting, anyway? We’re about to find out!
From the native peoples of the coast to the discovery of gold, we will set off on a journey to discover the true story of the Golden State. With each “mission,” we will explore cultures, regions, structures, people, and more—bringing history to life in the process!
How has the state changed over time, and where can we find evidence of this history now? History is all around us, and we’ll discover places and stories that bring the past to life.
You’ll have plenty of opportunities to tap into your creativity too, as you design a mission village, map out a miner’s journey, or showcase the history of California that’s often overlooked.
Whether you live in California or are looking forward to visiting, there’s so much history to explore. Get ready to accept our mission: California!
Includes Hangout Haven for Terrific Taskmates!
Notes to Parents:
- This course is aligned to California State Standards, specifically the California Department of Education’s standards for California, A Changing State, Grade 4. As with all Athena’s courses, families will be able to adjust the course to fit multiple learning levels, including, in this case, Grades 5-6.
- Please note: To meet all of the California Department of Education’s standards, the assignments & activities (or comparable substitutes) in the Required section of the classroom must be completed.
- As with all Athena’s classes, assignments will include assignments and activities that can be used as samples for homeschooling. This course also includes optional quizzes.
Taught by Dr. Kirsten Stein
What to expect in the Required section in the classroom each week:
- At least two required activities, such as a forum post, a project, map work, etc.
- Presentation Option: End of the fall through spring semesters, students may choose to create presentations about California-specific topics.
- Please note: To meet all of the California Department of Education’s standards for California, A Changing State, Grade 4, the assignments & activities (or comparable substitutes) in the Required section must be completed.
What to expect in the Highly Suggested & Optional sections in the classroom each week:
- Curated resources, including websites & videos, are provided to excite learners and to add depth to the subject matter.
- Near the end of the first semester and through the second semester, students may create simple presentations to illustrate interesting facts about California-specific topics. Students may share this information during weekly webinars. Participation opportunities depend on the number of students wishing to be involved from week to week.
What to expect during the weekly webinar:
- Weekly webinars are 50 minutes long. Webinars are recorded and are available for students with schedule conflicts.
- Primary instruction and guided discussions are provided during live webinars.
- Active Participation (via the microphone and chat) in online class discussions.
What to Expect During the School Year:
Exploration of California’s rich history, including:
- Places & Regions in California
- Native Californians
- Spanish exploration and colonization of California
- Missions of California
- Mexican rule in California
- The Gold Rush
- Statehood
- Women in California
- California Economy
- California’s political and cultural development
- California’s government
- And more…aligning with the California Department of Education’s standards
Before taking this course, students should be able to:
- Read at a strong 3rd-grade level or above.
Students should be willing to:
- Actively participate (via the microphone) in the class discussion.
- Encourage class discussion by adding their questions/ideas in the chat window during the webinar.
- Respond with positive and encouraging comments on their classmates’ posts in the classroom forums.
To get the most out of this course, students should be able and willing to:
- Create at least one presentation about a California-specific topic.
- Possess the skills and desire needed to complete the weekly Required assignments and activities.
Required books & materials:
- Access to Canva. The free version of Canva is more than sufficient for this class.
- Parent: Ability to print at least one document and other desired downloads.