Social Studies (High School)

Global History and Geography

Global History and Geography introduces students to the study of human culture and history in four distinct regions: Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas. Students examine each culture and how it has evolved over time by studying the geography, religious and value systems, social structure, and government of each region. The course also devotes attention to the contemporary realities of each of these societies. Overarching themes, such as the impact of religion or economy on a society, are studied across regions and epochs to help students understand the fundamental issues that have shaped the human experience. Students will study primary and secondary accounts of historical events. Projects and assignments involve essay writing, research, analysis of newspaper and magazine articles, and role-playing.

U.S. History and Government

This one-year course engages students in an exploration of U.S. history from the colonial period through the 20th century. It is designed to encourage students to think historically as they develop a foundation in the content of U.S. history and government. Special attention is devoted to the government, civics, and the Constitution of the United States. Students will examine information and facts through the lens of major themes running through U.S. history: evolving definitions of freedom and democracy, tensions between state and federal governments, and the government’s role to protect and regulate. Topics such as the impact of the economy on society and politics, the United States’ relationship to the rest of the world, and cycles of immigration and reform are also given special emphasis. Projects and assignments throughout the year include frequent essay writing, reading and interpreting primary sources, research, debate, and oral presentations.

Economics and Civics

Economics and Civics is a one-year course. Economics is studied for one semester and students receive an introductory treatment of basic economic concepts and theories. Primary emphasis is placed upon acquiring skills with which to analyze current economic issues. Microeconomics analyzes the interactions of individual consumers and producers in specific markets. Macroeconomics encompasses the aggregate economy and is concerned with issues such as the total output, interest rates, inflation and unemployment. The goal of this course is to give students a sufficient understanding of economic issues and problems so that they may better understand the impact of government policy, economic phenomena, and the choices people make.

Through one semester of Civics, students deepen their knowledge of the United States government and constitutional principles. Students study the U.S. system in relation to other nations, review the basic civic values and responsibilities of a participatory democracy, and examine interpretations of the Constitution. Students will learn how to apply this knowledge toward a richer understanding of current events. Students will examine current issues that are of concern to them at a local, state, and national level. They will explore ways that these issues are or could be addressed by their representatives in government.

World Cultures

World Cultures is an experiential education course designed to give the student a global perspective by examining cultural regions of the world. For each region, the students will explore and analyze the geography, history, religion/philosophies, value systems, and cultural factors such as language, art, music, economics, and contemporary issues. By the end of the course the student should be able to compare these cultural factors across a global perspective. The goal of the course is to prepare students for the ever-growing interdependence of the world in which they will live and to help prepare them for their responsibilities as participating citizens of the global society in the 21st century. This course is only offered during the winter term for students who participate in an international practicum. Each winter term carries half of one unit of credit, so two winter terms must be completed for a student to receive one full social studies credit.