How did we end up in the world we live in today? How can our study of history help us create joyful, resilient, connected futures? Modern World History students will define and explore the major trends and pivot points of the past 500 years, including

• European colonization and it’s modern day echoes

• Racial slavery and antiracist resistance movements 

• Revolutions and their effects on the world

• The emergence of industrial society and the working class 

• The rise of fascism and anti-fascist resistance

• The evolving political landscape of our world today 

Semester one of this class focuses on the development and practice of democracy in America.  We will look at the historical foundations that shaped the Constitution, the compromises that were required to ratify the document, and the personalities that influenced that process.  We will then look at how the Constitution has developed since its inception and how it impacts our daily lives.

Semester two will examine the historic, economic, social and political events that helped shape the country that we live in today. This semester will be specifically targeting US history from the Civil War Era into the 21st century. The American people and their experiences are the heart of this course. As we begin to understand the influences of the past, we will connect those influences to our present and our future. The main goal of this course is to develop responsible, critical thinking citizens!

Taught by a former lawyer, this course provides an introduction into the fascinating world of crime and punishment. Students will explore how our society deals with criminals and their victims through the legal process and social programs. We will learn about crime scene investigation and have the opportunity to create and investigate our own crime scenes.

Through a series of participatory mock trials and field trips, students will gain valuable insight into the legal system that affects all of our lives. This hands-on course will provide students with a firm foundational understanding of the criminal justice system.

In this class, we will look at the various ways that film portrays history. We will learn the basics of how a film is made, the role of a director, the ways in which a screenwriter researches historical events and how actors take on the characters from the past. We will also learn how to write and direct a film. 

Honors United States History students will explore the cultural, economic, political and social development of the U.S. since colonial times.  The goals of this course are to develop an understanding of the principal themes in American history, to develop an ability to analyze historical evidence, and to express comprehension through written essays and projects. 

Become representative to the United Nations in this class that will prepare you to take part in your first (or next) Model UN conference!  The purpose of this class will be to learn about how the United Nations work, and then to prepare for an attend a Model United Nations conference in the northeast.  

Are you a news junkie? Do you like to follow a story from its beginning to end? In this class we will look at current events through an analytical lens. We'll take a close look at how current events are reported by different news sources and how they evolve over time. The world is getting smaller all the time - stay up on the stories that affect you!