Big History
OER Project: Big History smashes science and history into one social studies course that spans the timeline of the Universe. The journey begins at the Big Bang and ends in the future. Along the way, students discover the earliest stars, Earth’s fiery origins, and the evolution of human history. They’ll think critically, ask big questions, and develop a deeper understanding of how their choices today will shape tomorrow.
Want a crash course in all things Big History? Head over to the lifelong learner site!
Teaching Big History
Big History Course Outline
An outline of all course materials along with a pacing guide to help you find exactly what you need to plan your lessons.
Big History Course Standards Alignment
Information about how Big History aligns with social studies and geography standards.
Big History FAQ
Quick answers to the most common questions about the course.
Audio: “Unknowns” Podcast Episode 3, Clip 2
What is a weirdodanta, thingodanta, or a bizarrodanta? There are some extinct animals that continue to be mysteries to us.
Teach Tomorrow: Big History Lessons
Lesson 2.6
Earth
Earth is just one planet amongst many in the Universe, but we think this planet is pretty special! Learn about the fiery early days of our planet and why this one planet among countless others increased the complexity of the Universe in a way that may be unique.
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Lesson 4.4
Migration
All humans evolved in Africa, but what made our ancestors journey outside of Africa to eventually populate the whole world? Journey through time and across continents to investigate human migration.
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Big History Resources for Deeper Learning
The Thresholds: Big History
Article
The Thresholds: Big History
Big History is organized around eight thresholds of increasing complexity. Let’s explore how each of these thresholds connects to you.
What Was the Young Earth Like?
Video
What Was the Young Earth Like?
The early Earth was not a pleasant place to be. How did it change to become a place that supports life?
Geography: Plate Tectonics
Activity
Geography: Plate Tectonics
Can maps really predict the future? Learn how geographers are like detectives solving the mysteries of the future.
What Is Life?
Article
What Is Life?
Although the refrigerator in your house might contain all sorts of plants and animals, you can’t really classify your fridge as a living thing. There are some important reasons why.
Extinction Events
Video
Extinction Events
There have been six mass extinction events in the almost 4 billion years that life has been on Earth. How did they happen?
De-Extinction Debate
Activity
De-Extinction Debate
Could we bring extinct animals back to life? Would we want to? Evaluate the pros and cons of de-extinction.
Assessments on the History of the Earth
Prewriting: Earth’s Structure and Processes
Assessment
Prewriting: Earth’s Structure and Processes
How has our understanding of Earth’s structure and processes changed over time? Time to unpack the prompt and brainstorm how you’ll respond.
DBQ Sources: Earth’s Structure and Processes
Assessment
DBQ Sources: Earth’s Structure and Processes
Use evidence from the sources to support your response to how our understanding of Earth’s structure and processes have changed.
Writing: Earth’s Structure and Processes
Assessment
Writing: Earth’s Structure and Processes
You’ve brainstormed the topic and read the sources, now it’s time to write!
Community: Ask, Connect, Share
Connect with others in the Big History forum.