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
Soc. Stud. Courses 1-21
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
Soc. Stud. Courses 22-42
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
26.
Soc. Stud.
Economics: How America Works
2502
This course will focus on how the U.S. economy works and the challenges Americans face as we compete in a global economy. Students will become familiar with basic economic principles, including supply and demand, the workings of the stock market, economic cycles, and foreign trade. Students will read current periodicals, use computer models, and track the economy in order to engage in current debates on economic policy.
Semester - 2.5 Credits
11,12
CP
CCC, Global
All years
A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C2
27.
Soc. Stud.
Economics: How America Works
2503
This course will focus on how the U.S. economy works and the challenges Americans face as we compete in a global economy. Students will become familiar with basic economic principles, including supply and demand, the workings of the stock market, economic cycles, and foreign trade. Students will read current periodicals, use computer models, and track the economy in order to engage in current debates on economic policy.
Teacher recommendation required.
Semester - 2.5 Credits
11,12
H
CCC, Computer Science, Global,
All years
A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C2
28.
Soc. Stud.
The 1960s
2541
This course examines the political, social, and cultural climate of the 1960s. Using music, video, literature, and documents, students will examine topics such as the Presidency and the assassination of JFK, the fight for civil rights for minority groups, the Vietnam Conflict, the counterculture, and the Watergate scandal. Key figures in art, literature, politics, music, athletics, and radical movements of the time and their influence in shaping American society will also be explored.
Teacher recommendation required.
Semester - 2.5 Credits
11,12
H
CCC
All years
A1, A3, A4, S1, C2
29.
Soc. Stud.
The 1960s
2542
This course examines the political, social, and cultural climate of the 1960s. Using music, video, literature, and documents, students will examine topics such as the Presidency and the assassination of JFK, the fight for civil rights for minority groups, the Vietnam Conflict, the counterculture, and the Watergate scandal. Key figures in art, literature, politics, music, athletics, and radical movements of the time and their influence in shaping American society will also be explored.
Semester - 2.5 Credits
11,12
CP
CCC
All years
A1, A3, A4, S1, C2
30.
Soc. Stud.
Introduction to Psychology
2661
Introduction to Psychology will survey the field of psychology. Its purpose is to introduce students to the study of psychology and allow students to see how psychology can be applied to their own behavior to help them understand why they do what they do. The course will provide for this understanding through worksheets, class discussions, experiments and simulations, videos and student research. The topic of human sexuality and its influence on one's personality is also explored.
Semester - 2.5 Credits
11,12
CP
CCC
All years
A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C2
31.
Soc. Stud.
Experiencing Psychology
2662
The field of Psychology helps us to better understand who we are. Using the tools of modern psychology, students will explore the world of thought, personality, identity, learning and adjustment. The class will be primarily experience --- based in order to introduce students to the concepts of psychology which can be explored in more depth in later years in the Introduction to Psychology and AP Psychology courses.
Semester - 2.5 Credits
9, 10
CP
CCC
All years
A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C2
32.
Soc. Stud.
Introduction to Sociology
2721
This course will explore the behavioral science of sociology. Students will study group behavior and group dynamics and examine how the individual mutually affects and is affected by the social environment. The course will examine the sociological research process, major sociological principles and theorists. In addition, emphasis will be placed on applying these principles to understanding everyday situations using readings, case studies, class discussion, simulation, and experimentation.
Semester - 2.5 Credits
10,11,12
CP
CCC, Global
All years
A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C2
33.
Soc. Stud.
Introduction to Sociology
2723
This course will explore the behavioral science of sociology. Students will study group behavior and group dynamics and examine how the individual mutually affects and is affected by the social environment. The course will examine the sociological research process, major sociological principles and theorists. In addition, emphasis will be placed on applying these principles to understanding everyday situations using readings, case studies, class discussion, simulation, and experimentation.
Teacher recommendation required.
Semester - 2.5 Credits
10,11,12
H
CCC, Global
All years
A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C2
34.
Soc. Stud.
Introduction to Geography
2731
As an introduction to geography, this course is designed to help students develop a critical awareness of the dynamic world in which we live. Students will explore major historical and current problems affected by human interaction with the earth's surface, gaining skills in problem solving and an expanded knowledge of the field of geography. A major emphasis in the course will be an experiential approach to a series of issues presented for student analysis.
Semester - 2.5 Credits
9, 10
H
CCC,Global
This course will not be offered 2026-2027
A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C2
35.
Soc. Stud.
Introduction to Geography
2751
As an introduction to geography, this course is designed to help students develop a critical awareness of the dynamic world in which we live. Students will explore major historical and current problems affected by human interaction with the earth's surface, gaining skills in problem solving and an expanded knowledge of the field of geography. A major emphasis in the course will be an experiential approach to a series of issues presented for student analysis.
Semester - 2.5 Credits
9, 10
CP
CCC, Global
This course will not be offered 2025-2026
A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C2
36.
Soc. Stud.
World Religions
2811
This discussion-based course introduces the academic discipline of religious studies and places a special emphasis on philosophical perspectives of reality, indigenous worldviews, and five major world religions: Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Taking full advantage of off-campus field trips, guest speakers, and experiential activities, we will explore the dynamic nature of religion and the variety of philosophical and cultural expressions within each of these traditions.
Teacher recommendation required.
Semester - 2.5 Credits
10,11,12
H
CCC, Global
All years
A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C2
37.
Soc. Stud.
World Religions
2821
This discussion-based course introduces the academic discipline of religious studies and places a special emphasis on philosophical perspectives of reality, indigenous worldviews, and five major world religions: Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Taking full advantage of off-campus field trips, guest speakers, and experiential activities, we will explore the dynamic nature of religion and the variety of philosophical and cultural expressions within each of these traditions.
Semester - 2.5 Credits
10,11,12
CP
CCC, Global
All years
A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C2
38.
Soc. Stud.
Ancient Civilizations
2861
This course focuses on the history of humankind from its earliest beginnings in Africa and the Middle East, to the development of the Mediterranean world, and ending with the collapse of the Roman Empire in the west. If time allows the course will examine early cultures outside of the Mediterranean World. The course places emphasis on the political, social and economic development of cultures, as well as the hallmarks of civilization, such as religion, music, art and literature.
Semester - 2.5 Credits
10,11,12
CP
CCC, Global
25-26
A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C2
39.
Soc. Stud.
Ancient Civilizations
2871
This course focuses on the history of humankind from its earliest beginnings in Africa and the Middle East, to the development of the Mediterranean world, and ending with the collapse of the Roman Empire in the west. If time allows the course will examine early cultures outside of the Mediterranean World. The course places emphasis on the political, social and economic development of cultures, as well as the hallmarks of civilization, such as religion, music, art and literature.
Teacher recommendation required.
Semester - 2.5 Credits
10,11,12
H
CCC, Global
25-26
A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C2
40.
Soc. Stud.
Stories of World War II
2895
Stories of World War II will explore this period of history in greater detail than World or American History survey courses. This class will utilize personal accounts for teaching about the World War II era. Utilizing primary source material drawn from the memoirs and diaries of participants, students will explore World War II through various perspectives and identify how the conflict shaped society and global politics in the postwar world.
Semester - 2.5 Credits
10,11,12
CP
CCC, Global
All years
A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C2
41.
Soc. Stud.
Stories of World War II
2896
Stories of World War II will explore this period of history in greater detail than World or American History survey courses. This class will utilize personal accounts for teaching about the World War II era. Utilizing primary source material drawn from the memoirs and diaries of participants, students will explore World War II through various perspectives and identify how the conflict shaped society and global politics in the postwar world.
Teacher recommendation required.
Semester - 2.5 Credits
10,11,12
H
CCC, Global
All years
A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C2
42.
Soc. Stud.
Sports and Society
2124
Sports and Society is a half-year course in which students examine the ways in which sports reflect values, trends, and ideas in society. Sports are a cornerstone of American culture and form a substantial part of many people’s identities and a lens with which we can study society’s past, present, and future. Topics in this multidisciplinary study include sports’ intersection with social issues, economics, psychology, politics, law, history, geography, media studies, and science.
Semester - 2.5 Credits
9, 10
CP
2024-2025