SOCIAL STUDIES CURRICULUM

WORLD GEOGRAPHY Credit: 1
Grade: 9, 10
Prerequisite: None

This course is the study of the physical and cultural make-up of the world. The major emphases is placed upon the different areas of the world, the topography and climate of these areas, and the physical boundaries. While studying these areas, the students will become aware of the relationship between geographic conditions and cultural development.

WORLD HISTORY Credit: 1
Grade: 9, 10
Prerequisite: None

This course attempts to present history so students can see the world in all its inter-relationships rather than as isolated nations and civilizations. A survey of world history shows the continuity of history, the influence of each era upon succeeding times, and the sweeping forces of historical causes and effects. Attention is given to political developments, the growth of ideas, religions, education and art, as well as other civilizing forces.

UNITED STATES HISTORY Credit: 1
Grade: 11
Prerequisite: None

This course is a review of Early U.S. History and a comprehensive analysis of U.S. History from Reconstruction through Contemporary events. In approaching this study, emphasis is placed upon the political, social, economic, and cultural influences that have shaped our society and its history. Through the use of current events and geographic skills, the student is more likely to understand the needs and attitudes of our nation and its role in the world community.

HONORS UNITED STATES HISTORY Credit: 1
Grade: 11
Prerequisite: None

The purpose of Honors US History is to further the student’s approach to the study of people, places, and events. Students are encouraged to make analytical judgments in the evaluation of causes, effects, motives, and values in the study of US History, for it is through the understanding of these issues that the student becomes a more effective citizen.

It is therefore the aim of Honors US History to develop the student’s competencies through a curriculum which emphasizes skill in compiling and organizing a record of the past, encourages students to recognize the kinds of questions asked by the social scientist, encourages the student to precisely express his own judgments and conclusions, provide a framework in which students will develop a system of values which will enable them to effectively contribute to society as useful and informed citizens, and reinforce and expand the student’s reading, writing, and oral communication skills, including extra reading requirements.

UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT Credit: ½
Grade: 12
Prerequisite: None

This course is designed to teach all students the basic structure and operation of our American system of government. The course includes a study of the foundations of American governments. The course emphasizes the citizen’s role in the operation of government and attempts to make them more aware of their civic responsibility.

ECONOMICS Credit: ½
Prerequisite: None

This course is designed to teach students about the American economic system. A comparison is made between the American system and other systems around the world. The course instructs students about the way government, labor, business and financial institutions affect our economic growth, tax structure, markets, and income. By studying this course, the student is better prepared to understand economic trends and how it affects them and other members of society.

PSYCHOLOGY Credit: ½
Grade: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: None

This course is an introduction to the theories of psychology. An emphasis is placed on theories of personalities, learning behavior, dreams and REM, social influences, and laboratory studies. By learning about the pioneers of psychology and their theories, one gains a greater understanding of the mind and its operations.

AFRICAN – AMERICAN HISTORY Credit: ½
Grade: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: None (U.S. History is preferred)

This course is designed to trace the history of African-Americans from the time blacks were brought to Jamestown in 1619 to the present time. Special emphasis is placed on black contributions to American history and black struggles to overcome civil and social discrimination.

BIBLE HISTORY I Credit: ½
Grade: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: World History (Recommended but not required)

This course is a survey of Biblical History beginning with the patriarch Abraham and continuing chronologically through the death of Solomon. Interwoven in the triumphs and tragedies of Israel ’s quest to form a nation are the histories of other ancient peoples who were contemporaries to the Jews. Attention is given to the political, cultural and religious development of Israel and the clash of ideologies with surrounding nations.

CIVICS Credit: 1 Grade: 9
Prerequisite: None

Civics is an overview of the relationship between the local, state, and national government with emphasis on Civil Liberties and rights.