The elective courses offered through the social studies department have a two-fold mission. They are available for student to be able to take courses that match their interests in the social sciences. Additionally, the elective courses are meant to supplement and work in conjunction with our core courses while allowing students to achieve a deeper understanding of social studies according to their interests during their normal school day.
ABNORMAL PSYCHOLOGY I
Offered to: Grades: 10-12
This course will focus on specific abnormal and psychotic behaviors, such as: schizophrenia, depression, multiple personalities, eating, anxiety and childhood disorders
ABNORMAL PSYCHOLOGY II
Offered to: Grades: 10-12
This course will focus on specific abnormal and psychotic behaviors, such as: schizophrenia, depression, multiple personalities, eating, anxiety and childhood disorders
ADVANCED PLACEMENT HUMAN GEOGRAPHY
Offered to: Grades 9-12
Prerequisite: Demonstrated excellence in Social Studies with an 85 or higher or recommendation of the Social Studies Director or previous experience in AP courses.
This college-level course introduces students to the systematic study of patterns and processes that have shaped human understanding, use, and alteration of Earth’s surface. Students will explore and evaluate the geographic organization of human population, migration patterns, cultural patterns (through the study of language, religion, race, ethnicity, and gender), political organization of space, industrial and economic development, and urban land use. Students will gain a geographic understanding of how events in one place influence other locations throughout the world. Finally, students will analyze the impact of geography in achieving political, economic, and industrial goals. This course culminates with the College Board AP Exam in Human Geography in May. A summer assignment is required.
ADVANCED PLACEMENT AFRICAN AMERICAN STUDIES
Offered to: Grades 11-12
AP African American Studies is an interdisciplinary course that explores the rich and complex history, culture, and contributions of African Americans. The course examines themes such as the origins of the African diaspora, the impact of slavery, Reconstruction, the Civil Rights Movement, and contemporary issues in African American life. Students engage with a variety of sources, including historical documents, literature, art, and music, to develop a nuanced understanding of African American experiences and perspectives. The course encourages critical thinking, research, and discussions, fostering a deeper appreciation of African American heritage and its profound influence on the broader narrative of American history and culture.
ADVANCED PLACEMENT PSYCHOLOGY Offered to: Grades 10-12
Prerequisite: Successful completion and demonstrate an excellence in Social Studies with an average of 85 or higher and the successful completion of Psychology or recommendation of the Social Studies Director.
This elective course is a systematic and scientific study of human behavior and mental processes through inquiry-based investigations. With the rapid increase in globalization and the use of technology, there are greater insights into how individuals interpret meanings, relationships and health. Psychology addresses these complex issues so that students can develop a greater understanding of themselves and others. Students will study biological behavior, learning and cognition, social psychology, motivation and emotion, developmental and abnormal psychology while analyzing research methodology. The course culminates with the AP Psychology exam in May.
PSYCHOLOGY
Offered to: Grades 9-12
This course is a basic introduction to psychology, covering such areas as personality, learning, deviance, and various psychological theories. Research into current trends and theories in psychological applications are also an expectation of each student
IMPACT OF SPORTS IN HISTORY
Offered to: Grades 9-12
This course will provide students with an overall view of the impact of sports throughout history, beginning with the emergence of the Olympics in Greece and continuing through the 21st century. Focus topics will include discrimination in sports, Title IX cases, and the economics of sports among others. Various source materials will include documentaries, internet research, and print materials. Students will engage in research projects, discussion and debate on the focus topics.
INTRO TO CRIMINAL JUSTICE
Offered to: Grades 10-12
This course introduces the law and criminal justice system in the United States. It analyzes the impact of the legal system on our lives, how the courts deal with crime and punishment, and the historical evolution of the system. The students will be exposed to the role of law enforcement, prosecution, courts and corrections in the criminal justice system.
INTRO TO HISTORY OF GENOCIDE
Offered to :Grade 10 Co-Requisite : AP World History
This course is designed to explore human rights violations across history. The students will explore documents that detail the social political, and economic factors that cause crimes against humanity. The lasting impact of these events will be determined through critical thinking and analysis.
LONG ISLAND HISTORY
Offered to: Grades 9-12
This course details the unique historical background of the place we call home. Students will study the history of Long Island from its earliest settlements to the modern era. Topics include the formation of Long Island, colonial settlements, the American Revolution, industrialization, the birth of the suburbs, famous Long Islanders, and contemporary issues.
CHILD PSYCHOLOGY AND DEVELOPMENT 1
Offered to: Grades 9-12
Prerequisite: Child Psychology and Development I.
**This course will run on an alternate-year schedule
Students will explore the foundational principles of child psychology and development from birth through early childhood. Topics include the stages of cognitive, emotional, and physical development, attachment theories, and the influence of family and environment on growth. Students will engage in discussions, case studies, and activities to understand how children think, learn, and form relationships. By the end of this section, students will have a comprehensive understanding of early developmental milestones and the factors that shape a child's early years.
CHILD PSYCHOLOGY AND DEVELOPMENT 2
Offered to: Grades 9-12
**This course will run on an alternate year schedule
The second half of the course focuses on child development from middle childhood through adolescence. Emphasis will be placed on social, emotional, and cognitive changes during these stages, including the impact of peer relationships, identity formation, and cultural influences. Students will examine real-world scenarios, research current psychological theories, and explore strategies to support healthy development during these critical years. By the conclusion of the course, students will have gained insight into the challenges and opportunities of guiding children through the later stages of development.