• Social Studies

    The Social Studies Department has developed a sequence of courses, the intent of which is to prepare students for their responsibilities as citizens of the world.  Our programs in high school build on the middle school coursework, giving students an understanding of the modern world and American history. Students will develop the skills of critical and creative thinking as a means to analyze the problems faced by America in the world community.
     
    Three years of social studies are required for graduation. Students must complete one year of World History and two years of American History.  Students in grade 9 must enroll in World History and students must take United States History during grade 10 and Modern U.S. and World History during grade 11. Alternative routes to completing the three-year graduation requirement are available to students in special circumstances with Department Head approval.  Placement in Honors and Advanced Placement courses require teachers' recommendations based on overall student academic performance.  
    The Social Studies Department offers many elective courses grades 9-12 and our courses contribute to the Civics, Citizenship and Communities Pathway.  The CCC Pathway aims to nurture the intellectual and social development of students through an emphasis on civic engagement, service learning and activism.  To complete the Pathway, students will complete coursework in each of the following concentrations: Law and Public Policy, Human Development and Behavior, Global History and International Relations.  Please see the Civics, Citizenship and Communities Pathway page for more information.  
     

    COURSE PROGRESSION

    COLLEGE PREP LEVEL

    GRADE  9

    GRADE 10

    GRADE 11

    GRADE 12

    World History

     

    United States History

    American Studies

    ~or~

    Modern U.S. & World History

    Electives
     
    HONORS LEVEL

    GRADE  9

    GRADE 10

    GRADE 11

    GRADE 12

    World History

     

    United States History

    American Studies

    ~or~

    Modern U.S. & World History

    ~or~

    A.P. U.S. History

    Electives

    Electives may be taken in addition to the required courses at all grade levels. 

  • Program of Studies

    • 1.
      • Soc. Stud.
      • World History (1450-1919)
      • 2120
      • In World History, students will thematically explore major world developments and cultures from the Renaissance to World War One. A goal of this course will be the use of various problem-solving and critical-thinking strategies to solve historical problems. Students will be required to assume the active role as a participant in history engaged individually and cooperatively in active learning. Emphasis will be placed on multiculturalism, current events, and the world's relevance to our lives.
      • Full Year - 5 Credits
      • 9
      • CP
      • All years
      • A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C2
    • 2.
      • Soc. Stud.
      • World History (1450-1919)
      • 2130
      • In World History, students will thematically explore major world developments and cultures from the Renaissance to World War One. A goal of this course will be the use of various problem-solving and critical-thinking strategies to solve historical problems. Students will be required to assume the active role as a participant in history engaged individually and cooperatively in active learning. Emphasis will be placed on multiculturalism, current events, and the world's relevance to our lives.
      • Teacher recommendation required.
      • Full Year - 5 Credits
      • 9
      • H
      • All years
      • A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C2
    • 3.
      • Soc. Stud.
      • Perspectives in World History
      • 2511
      • This course focuses on world historical issues from 1800 to the present. Students will actively analyze the events that have shaped our present world, such as world war, depression, totalitarianism, decolonization, and economic interdependence. This is a co-taught class with a Special Education teacher and a Social Studies content based teacher; it is modified extensively to meet the needs of individual students. The class is tailored for students with language based learning disabilities.
      • Full Year - 5 Credits
      • 9
      • CP
      • All years
    • 4.
      • Soc. Stud.
      • United States History (1800-1919)
      • 2220
      • This course builds upon the foundations of American democracy, presenting students with a sequential development of the settlement, growth, and expansion of the territory now known as the United States from the Early National period (1800) through the early twentieth century. Students will explore fundamental concepts of American government, such as republicanism, federalism, separation of powers, and checks and balances, which endure despite political, economic, and social challenges.
      • Full Year - 5 Credits
      • 10
      • CP
      • All years
      • A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C2
    • 5.
      • Soc. Stud.
      • United States History (1800-1919)
      • 2230
      • This course builds upon the foundations of American democracy, presenting students with a sequential development of the settlement, growth, and expansion of the territory now known as the United States from the Early National period (1800) through the early twentieth century. Students will explore fundamental concepts of American government, such as republicanism, federalism, separation of powers, and checks and balances, which endure despite political, economic, and social challenges.
      • Teacher recommendation required.
      • Full Year - 5 Credits
      • 10
      • H
      • All years
      • A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C2
    • 6.
      • Soc. Stud.
      • Perspectives in US History I
      • 2510
      • This course examines the historical and intellectual origins of the United States during the Revolutionary and Constitutional eras, exploring the basic concepts of American democracy and government, such as popular sovereignty, federalism, separation of powers, and individual rights. Students learn about westward expansion, the establishment of political parties, and the growth of sectional conflict. The class is tailored for students with language based learning disabilities.
      • Full Year - 5 Credits
      • 10
      • CP
      • Visual & Performing Arts
      • All years
      • A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C2
    • 7.
      • Soc. Stud.
      • Modern United States and World History (1919-present)
      • 2320
      • This course will be a thematic exploration of major world developments beginning in the 1920s and leading up to 9/11. Students will explore the political, economic and social issues through the use of various problem-solving and critical-thinking strategies and apply them to historical problems. This course will develop a foundation for students to become active, responsible participants in our diverse and interdependent world.
      • Full Year - 5 Credits
      • 11
      • CP
      • All years
      • A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C2
    • 8.
      • Soc. Stud.
      • American Studies: Voices of Protest and Progress (CP)
      • 2312
      • This interdisciplinary English & American History class will examine the question, What does it mean to be an American? Students explore American themes in literature, history, art, music and philosophy. Students will demonstrate their understanding through critical thinking, source analysis, historical research, technology integrated projects and civil discourse. The course is a team taught, double period class, which fulfills course requirements in junior year English & American History II.
      • Full Year - 10 Credits
      • 11
      • CP
      • CCC
      • All years
      • A1, A2, A3, S1, S2, C2
    • 9.
      • Soc. Stud.
      • Modern United States and World History (1919-present)
      • 2330
      • This course will be a thematic exploration of major world developments beginning in the 1920s and leading up to 9/11. Students will explore the political, economic and social issues through the use of various problem-solving and critical-thinking strategies and apply them to historical problems. This course will develop a foundation for students to become active, responsible participants in our diverse and interdependent world.
      • Teacher recommendation required.
      • Full Year - 5 Credits
      • 11
      • H
      • All years
      • A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C2
    • 10.
      • Soc. Stud.
      • American Studies: Voices of Protest and Progress (H)
      • 2332
      • This interdisciplinary English & American History class will examine the question, What does it mean to be an American? Students explore American themes in literature, history, art, music and philosophy. Students will demonstrate their understanding through critical thinking, source analysis, historical research, technology integrated projects and civil discourse. The course is a team taught, double period class, which fulfills course requirements in junior year English & American History II.
      • Requires Social Studies and/or English Teacher recommendation.
      • Full Year - 10 Credits
      • 11
      • H
      • CCC
      • All years
      • A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C2
    • 11.
      • Soc. Stud.
      • Perspectives in US History II
      • 2512
      • This course examines the emergence of America as an industrial, economic, and world political power and the influence of that growth on American culture. Significant emphasis will be placed on America in the post World War era. This is a co-taught class with a Special Education teacher and a Social Studies content based teacher; it is modified extensively to meet the needs of individual students. The class is tailored for students with language based learning disabilities.
      • Full Year - 5 Credits
      • 11
      • CP
      • Visual & Performing Arts
      • All years
      • A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C2
    • 12.
      • Soc. Stud.
      • AP African American Studies
      • 2140
      • AP African American Studies is an exciting, interdisciplinary course that draws from a variety of fields—history, literature, the arts, geography, science, and law—to explore the vital contributions and experiences of African Americans. In AP African American Studies, students explore key topics that extend from early African kingdoms to the ongoing challenges and achievements of the contemporary moment.
      • Teacher recommendation required.
      • 1 year
      • 11, 12
      • AP
      • CCC
      • 2025-2026
    • 13.
      • Soc. Stud.
      • AP United States History
      • 2441
      • AP U.S. History examines the political, social, cultural, and economic events that shaped the United States from pre-Columbian times to the present. Students analyze primary and secondary sources, develop historical arguments, and explore themes such as democracy, migration, and civil rights. This rigorous course builds critical thinking, research, and writing skills while preparing students for the AP exam and fostering a deeper understanding of the nation's past.
      • Teacher recommendation required.
      • Full Year - 5 Credits
      • 11,12
      • AP
      • CCC
      • All years
      • A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C2
    • 14.
      • Soc. Stud.
      • AP European History
      • 2443
      • AP European History explores key political, economic, social, and cultural developments in Europe from 1450 to the present. Students analyze primary and secondary sources, develop historical arguments, and make connections across time periods. Topics include the Renaissance, Reformation, revolutions, industrialization, world wars, and globalization. This rigorous course prepares students for the AP exam and builds critical thinking and writing skills.
      • Teacher recommendation required.
      • Full Year - 5 Credits
      • 10,11,12
      • AP
      • CCC, Global
      • 2026-2027
      • A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C2
    • 15.
      • Soc. Stud.
      • AP United States Government and Politics
      • 2543
      • AP U.S. Government and Politics provides an in-depth study of the American political system, including the Constitution, political beliefs, parties, elections, branches of government, and civil rights. Students analyze foundational documents, Supreme Court cases, and current events to understand the principles and functions of government. This challenging course develops critical thinking, writing, and debate skills, preparing students for the AP exam and informed civic engagement.
      • Teacher recommendation required.
      • Full Year - 5 Credits
      • 12
      • AP
      • CCC, Global, Media & Communications
      • All years
      • A1, A2, A4, S1, S2, C2
    • 16.
      • Soc. Stud.
      • AP Human Geography
      • 2741
      • AP Human Geography explores the patterns and processes shaping human interaction with the environment. Students examine topics such as population, culture, urbanization, agriculture, and globalization through spatial analysis and geographic models. This rigorous course develops critical thinking, map-reading, and data interpretation skills, preparing students for the AP exam and a deeper understanding of the world’s interconnected systems.
      • Teacher recommendation required.
      • Full Year - 5 Credits
      • 11,12
      • AP
      • CCC, Global
      • All years
      • A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C2
    • 17.
      • Soc. Stud.
      • Biopsychology: The Science of Psychological Disorders
      • 2131
      • Biopsychology is a interdisciplinary laboratory science course that explores the complex relationships between biology and psychology. It explains the roles of biological, anatomical, and physiological factors of the human nervous system on neurological and psychological processes. Students will examine the contributions of recent scientific advancements in an effort to understand the origins underlying certain developmental disorders and common psychological issues.
      • Prior to taking this course you must have taken Biology and it is recommended that you have taken a psychology course (Experiencing Psych, Intro to Psych, or AP Psych).
      • Semester - 2.5 Credits
      • 10,11,12
      • H
      • CCC, STEAM
      • 2026-2027
      • A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C1, C2
    • 18.
      • Soc. Stud.
      • AP Psychology
      • 2841
      • AP Psychology introduces students to the scientific study of human behavior and mental processes. Topics include biological bases of behavior, learning, cognition, development, personality, and psychological disorders. Students analyze research studies, explore key theories, and apply psychological concepts to real-life situations. This rigorous course builds critical thinking and research skills, preparing students for the AP exam and a deeper understanding of psychology.
      • Teacher recommendation required.
      • Full Year - 5 Credits
      • 11,12
      • AP
      • CCC, Global
      • All years
      • A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C2
    • 19.
      • Soc. Stud.
      • Gender Studies
      • 2010
      • This course explores the concept of gender as a central element shaping human experiences, social institutions, and cultural practices. Students will analyze how gender intersects with race, class, sexuality, ability, and other aspects of identity to influence power dynamics, representation, and lived realities across diverse global and historical contexts. Students will engage with contemporary debates and challenges in gender equity, activism, and policy.
      • Semester - 2.5 Credits
      • 10,11,12
      • CP
      • CCC,Global
      • All years
      • A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C1, C2
    • 20.
      • Soc. Stud.
      • Gender Studies
      • 2015
      • This course explores the concept of gender as a central element shaping human experiences, social institutions, and cultural practices. Students will analyze how gender intersects with race, class, sexuality, ability, and other aspects of identity to influence power dynamics, representation, and lived realities across diverse global and historical contexts. Students will engage with contemporary debates and challenges in gender equity, activism, and policy.
      • Teacher recommendation required.
      • Semester - 2.5 Credits
      • 10,11,12
      • H
      • CCC
      • All years
      • A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C1, C2
    • 21.
      • Soc. Stud.
      • World Studies/International Relations
      • 2881
      • This course will include an introduction to the key concepts of international relations. A case study approach will be used to analyze current international problems around the world, with an emphasis on current events. The course will involve research work, extensive reading, paper writing, presentations, and debate. Students who have met success in college --- prep level Social Studies courses are encouraged to select this course as a solid foundation for college work.
      • Full Year - 5 Credits
      • 11,12
      • CP
      • CCC, Global
      • All years
      • A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C2
    • 22.
      • Soc. Stud.
      • World Studies/International Relations
      • 2891
      • This course will include an introduction to the key concepts of international relations. A case study approach will be used to analyze current international problems around the world, with an emphasis on current events. The course will involve research work, extensive reading, paper writing, presentations, and debate. Students who have met success in college --- prep level Social Studies courses are encouraged to select this course as a solid foundation for college work.
      • Teacher recommendation required.
      • Full Year - 5 Credits
      • 11,12
      • H
      • CCC, Global
      • All years
      • A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C2
    • 23.
      • Soc. Stud.
      • Early Childhood Education
      • 6321
      • Early Childhood Education examines the physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development of children from birth to age eight. Students explore parenting styles, educational theories, and the role of family and community in child development. Hands-on activities and projects provide practical experience in understanding young children’s needs and behavior. This course builds foundational knowledge for careers in education, childcare, and social services.
      • Full Year - 5 Credits
      • 10,11,12
      • CP
      • CCC
      • All years
      • A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C2
    • 24.
      • Soc. Stud.
      • Digital Society
      • 2228
      • Students today are living in an age of constant digital connectivity. Digital technology has completely transformed our societal norms and given us new lenses through which we see ourselves and the world. In this course, students will trace the history and development of digital technology, evaluate the rules for conduct and communication in the 21st century, and explore the psychological and sociological implications of our new digital culture.
      • Semester - 2.5 Credits
      • 10,11,12
      • CP
      • CCC, Global, Media & Communication
      • All years
      • A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C2
    • 25.
      • Soc. Stud.
      • Digital Society
      • 2237
      • Students today are living in an age of constant digital connectivity. Digital technology has completely transformed our societal norms and given us new lenses through which we see ourselves and the world. In this course, students will trace the history and development of digital technology, evaluate the rules for conduct and communication in the 21st century, and explore the psychological and sociological implications of our new digital culture.
      • Teacher recommendation required.
      • Semester - 2.5 Credits
      • 10,11,12
      • H
      • CCC, Global, Media & Communication
      • All years
      • A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C2