Department Philosophy

The Social Studies program offers a broad range of subjects: History, Geography, Global Perspectives, Psychology, Economics, and Business Management, all designed to help students better understand their world and role in it.  While students may be members of a particular cultural group and inhabit specific environments, the Social Studies program expands their horizons, encouraging them to adopt a global perspective and responsible world citizenship.

Social Studies 9  (4153y)

One year - 1 credit

Grade 9

Scheduling: 5-block class

Social Studies 9 is a common ninth-grade course which uses the content of modern World History as the narrative to explore a range of disciplines social scientists use, including geography, economics and political science.  Beginning with the rise of industrialization, this course explores topics from roughly 1750 to the present including imperialism, the World Wars, the Cold War and recent globalization.  

There is an emphasis in the course is placed on the development of relevant social studies skills such as analytical writing, source analysis and reasoning skills, giving students the foundation they need for future studies in other Social Studies disciplines.  

Social Studies 9 LE  (4154y)

One year – 1 credit

Grade 9

Prerequisite: a qualifying score on the WIDA placement exam and/or recommendation from staff

Scheduling: 5-block class

Social Studies 9 LE mirrors as closely as possible the content covered in Social Studies 9 (see above) and serves the same preparatory function. The chief distinction between the two courses is the greater emphasis on the development of language, with a selection of scaffolding strategies such as clear language objectives, the use of sentence stems, graphic organizers, glossaries, read aloud, word walls among other language building strategies.

Global Perspectives (4256y) 

One year - 1 credit

Grade 10

Prerequisite: None

Scheduling: 5-block class

Global Perspectives The curriculum explores global issues through the lenses of history, geography, political science, and economics. In our first unit, students explore the philosophical origins of rights by examining the Enlightenment.  Next, we look at human rights violations within a historical context through a study of the Cambodian Genocide.  We then examine Civil Rights through at study of the US Civil Rights Movement and Apartheid in South Africa before ending our year by examining economic and environment rights in the context of global markets and sustainability.  The goals for students are that they 1) develop an understanding of different social science disciplines and how they view contemporary issues, 2) apply an understanding of the origin of rights to various current contexts, 3) evaluate competing perspectives on rights and responsibilities at different scales and 4) communicate arguments clearly through reading, writing, discussion and presentation.   

Personal Finance (4510s)

One semester (limited to semester two) - 0.5 credit

Grades 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite: None

Scheduling: 5-block class

Understanding and managing personal finance is the key to one’s future financial success. In this semester-long elective course, students learn basic principles of business and economics in order to make informed decisions about real-world financial issues and effectively manage their own finances. Students learn core skills in creating budgets, developing long-term financial plans to meet their goals, and making responsible choices about income, expenses and investment. Real-world topics covered include income, spending and credit, banking, mortgages, as well as saving and investing. Students taking this course will learn to better prepare for their financial futures.

GEOGRAPHY

Map of the Modern World  (42602s)

One semester (limited to semester one) - 0.5 credit

Grades 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite: None

Scheduling: 5-block class

This exciting blended online and face to face course is offered in partnership with Georgetown University's School of Foreign Service. This class was created more than a quarter century ago to “banish geographic illiteracy from the School of Foreign Service.” The aim is to achieve that goal by cementing the basic physical and political geography of the contemporary world map. Importantly, the class will provide insights to help you construct your own frameworks for understanding current world issues and coming change. In terms of content, this is the exact same course as all Georgetown SFS students are required to take. The only difference is some additional assessment tasks geared around university preparation including a mini-internal assessment.

AP Human Geography (42702y) 

One year – 1 credit

Grade 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite: 9th or 10th grade English & Social Studies teacher approval advised

Scheduling: 5-block class

Students in AP Human Geography will explore how humans have understood, used, and changed the surface of Earth. They will use the tools and thinking processes of geographers to examine patterns of human population, migration, and land use. Students are expected to connect geographic concepts and processes to real-life scenarios, understand information shown in maps, tables, charts, graphs, infographics, images, and landscapes, see patterns and trends in data and in visual sources such as maps and drawing conclusions from them, and understand spatial relationships using geographic scales

Physical and Human Geography  (42704y)

One year - 1 credit

Grades 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite: None

This course will focus on the human and physical patterns, trends, and processes and how societies are shaping and affected by our environments and global interactions. The course will focus on building the technical and traditional skills of the geographer while learning about plate tectonics and their hazards, population dynamics, migration, economic development, weather, climate, and ecosystems. There will be an opportunity for fieldwork (pandemic allowing) to gain experience in geographic investigation. 

IB H1 Geography (4810y)

One year – 1 credit

Grade 11

Prerequisite: None

Scheduling: 6-block class

H1 Geography is the first year of the Higher Level IB course. Geography is a dynamic subject that explores the interactions between individuals, societies and the physical environment.  Students examine a variety of patterns and trends that are related to these interactions.  They develop a strong understanding of key global issues on a range of scales from local to regional, national and international.  Students will examine Jakarta’s urban environment in order to meet their IB internal assessment requirements.  As the course progresses students enhance their reading and writing skills, as well as their ability to interpret and analyze a variety of tables, graphs, diagrams and maps.  They also have the opportunity to undertake statistical calculations, and to research, process and interpret data.

Students and parents should note that, since the Indonesian field study is an essential component of the course, the trip is mandatory for all students enrolled in the course.  The trip usually involves two school days and one day during the weekend and costs approximately USD 600.

IB S1 Geography (4811y)

One year – 1 credit

Grade 11

Prerequisite: None

Scheduling: 5-block class

SL Geography is a two-year IB course offered in grades 11 and 12.  Geography is a dynamic subject that explores the interactions between individuals, societies and the physical environment.  Students examine a variety of patterns and trends that are related to these interactions.  They develop a strong understanding of key global issues on a range of scales from local to regional, national, and international.  During the course students will study current issues such as population growth and migration, disparities that exist in wealth and development and how these disparities may be reduced, patterns in environmental quality and how to achieve sustainability, as well as resource consumption and conservation.  Students will also conduct a field study related to one of these three themes in order to meet the IB internal assessment requirements. As the course progresses students enhance their reading and writing skills, as well as their ability to interpret and analyze a variety of tables, graphs, diagrams and maps.  They also have the opportunity to undertake statistical calculations, and to research, process and interpret data.

Students and parents should note that, since the field study is an essential component of the course, the trip is mandatory for all students enrolled in the course.  The trip usually involves two school days and one day during the weekend and costs approximately USD 600.

IB H2 Geography (4815y)

One year – 1 credit

Grade 12

Prerequisite: IB H1 Geography

Scheduling: 6-block class

Not offered in 2026/27

The second year of the Higher Level IB course looks at the impact the developing and developed world have on one another and the economic, environmental, sociocultural and political consequences of their interactions. Geographic skills will continue to be reinforced at this level in preparation for the final IB examination in May. The course provides an excellent foundation for any future college level Humanities and/or Science courses.

IB S2 Geography (4812y)

One year – 1 credit

Grade 12

Prerequisite: IB S1 Geography 

Scheduling: 5-block class

Not offered in 2026/27

The second year of the Standard Level IB course continues to develop the necessary concepts and knowledge required for the course.  Geographic skills will continue to be reinforced at this level in preparation for the final IB examination in May. The course provides an excellent foundation for any future college level Humanities and/or Science courses. 

Careers involving Geography include Urban and Regional Planning, Tourism, Geology, Environmental Science, Resource Management, GIS Specialist, Climatologist, Meteorologist, Writer/Researcher.

HISTORY

Modern World History (42601y)

One year - 1 credit

Grades 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite: None

Scheduling: 5-block class

Modern World History is an inquiry-based course that explores the major political, social, and ideological developments of the twentieth century through the framework of the Cold War. Rather than focusing on a single event or region, students examine a diverse range of global case studies across Europe, the United States, East Asia, South and Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and Latin America, highlighting how international rivalries intersected with local contexts and produced lasting consequences. The course adopts a strongly international perspective, encouraging students to engage with voices and experiences that are often marginalised in traditional historical narratives, while also allowing scope for student interest to shape areas of focus. Through critical analysis of sources, discussion, structured historical writing, and a creative Foreign Correspondent journalistic research assignment, students develop the skills needed to understand how Cold War tensions reshaped the modern world and continue to influence global affairs today.

AP World History: Modern (4361y)

One year – 1 credit

Grades 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite: 9th or 10th grade English & Social Studies teacher approval advised. 

Scheduling: 6-block class

Note: G10 students can not take this course alongside AP Seminar 

In AP World History: Modern; students investigate significant events, individuals, developments, and processes from 1200 to the present. Students develop and use the same skills, practices, and methods employed by historians: analyzing primary and secondary sources; developing historical arguments; making historical connections; and utilizing reasoning about comparison, causation, and continuity and change over time. The course provides six themes that students explore throughout the course in order to make connections among historical developments in different times and places: humans and the environment, cultural developments and interactions, governance, economic systems, social interactions and organization, and technology and innovation.

AP U.S. History (4360y)

One year – 1 credit

Grades 11, 12

Prerequisite: 10th grade English & Social Studies teacher approval advised 

Scheduling: 6-block class

Offered every other year - 2025/26 school year and then again in 2027/28. Not available for SY 2026/27.

Advanced Placement United States History provides students with an intensive study of the major issues in American history from its colonial origins to the present. While the course presents a broad introduction to major historical themes – the cross-cultural impact of European colonization, the causes of the colonial revolt, the establishment of the world’s first democratic republic, the crisis of the Civil War, the United States’ rise to world power in the 20th century – it also examines the varied and often conflicting viewpoints held by individual Americans in their struggle to define the American experience. Assessments are focused on analytical reading of primary and secondary sources which students must synthesize into critical writing responses.

AP European History (43611y)

One year – 1 credit

Grades 11, 12.

Prerequisite: 10th grade English & Social Studies teacher approval advised.

Scheduling: 6-block class

Offered every other year - 2026/27 school year and then again in 2028/29  

This course gives students the opportunity to study European history since 1450.  It introduces students to cultural, economic, political and social developments that played a fundamental role in shaping the world in which they live.  The course emphasizes interdisciplinary connections, examining the role that the arts, philosophy, science, and literature influenced political and economic decisions made at the time.  In addition to providing a basic narrative of events and movements, the goals of AP European History are to develop (A) an understanding of some of the principal themes in modern European history, (B) an ability to analyze historical evidence and historical interpretation, and (C) an ability to express historical understanding in writing. 

IB H1 History (4825y)

One year – 1 credit

Grades 11

Prerequisite: None

Scheduling: 6-block class

The 20th Century was a period of global conflict featuring world wars, numerous localized wars and civil wars, as well as the 45 year long Cold War.  This course begins with an examination of the causes and effects of World War I.  The course then goes on to examine the emergence of authoritarian leaders, first in Europe with the rise of Hitler and then also in Asia with the leadership of Mao, and how these leaders rose to power partially as a result of the conflicts and the peace settlements that ultimately failed to maintain international relations.  Topics of detailed study with a focus on document analysis will include the Japanese expansion in East Asia (1931 – 1941) and German and Italian expansion (1933 – 1940) and how expansion and other factors led to World War II. In addition to world wars, students will gain a deeper understanding of the causes, effects and roles of foreign intervention in the Spanish and Chinese civil wars. Furthermore, because this is a Higher level course, students will begin an in depth analysis of Asian history, specifically the topic of: The People’s Republic of China (1949 – 2005). Emphasis is placed on analyzing these historical events, use of relevant and detailed historical evidence and historiography in essay writing and document interpretation.  In addition, the students, in order to fulfill the IB requirements of the internal assessment, will start an in-depth study of a selected history topic which will be completed in the second year of the course.  

IB S1 History (4821y)

One year – 1 credit

Grade 11

Prerequisite: None

Scheduling: 5-block class

The 20th Century was a period of global conflict featuring world wars, numerous localized wars and civil wars, as well as the 45 year long Cold War.  This course begins with an examination of the causes and effects of World War I.  The course then goes on to examine the emergence of authoritarian leaders, first in Europe with the rise of Hitler and then also in Asia with the leadership of Mao, and how these leaders rose to power partially as a result of conflicts and the peace settlements that ultimately failed to maintain international relations.  Topics of detailed study with a focus on document analysis will include the Japanese expansion in East Asia (1931 – 1941) and German and Italian expansion (1933 – 1940) and how expansion led to World War II. In addition to world wars, students will gain a deeper understanding of the causes, effects, and roles of foreign intervention in the Spanish and Chinese civil wars. Emphasis is placed on analyzing these historical events, use of relevant and detailed historical evidence and historiography in essay writing and document interpretation.  In addition, the students, in order to fulfill the I.B. requirements of the internal assessment, will start an in-depth study of a selected history topic, which will be completed in the second year of the course.   

IB H2 History (4832y)

One year – 1 credit

Grade 12

Prerequisite:  IB H1 History

Scheduling: 6-block class

In year two the course will focus on the Cold War (1945-1991) and how the rivalries between the superpowers led to Cold War crises, which risked nuclear war in different regions of the world. Students will also analyze the causes, nature of and impact of proxy wars; the Korean War (1950-1953), the Vietnam Wars (1946-1954 and 1956-1975), and the Soviet-Afghan War (1979-1989). With an emphasis on the role of leaders, students will evaluate the effectiveness of detente policies and debate who bears responsibility for the end of the Cold War. Furthermore, as a Higher level course, students will continue the detailed study of Asian history, specifically the topics Cold War Conflicts in Asia and of the impact of World War II on Southeast Asia, including the rise of nationalist movements and leaders such as Sukarno and Ho Chi Minh. Students will continue developing their writing skills with a focus on evaluating a variety of perspectives and will complete their internal assessment, a research paper on a chosen area of study. 

IB S2 History (4822y)

One year – 1 credit

Grade 12

Prerequisite:   IB H1/S1 History

Scheduling: 5-block class

In year two the course will focus on the Cold War (1945-1991) and how the rivalries between the superpowers led to Cold War crises, which risked nuclear war in different regions of the world. Students will also analyze the causes, nature of and impact of proxy wars; the Korean War (1950-1953), the Vietnam Wars (1946-1954 and 1956-1975), and the Soviet-Afghan War (1979-1989). With an emphasis on the role of leaders, students will evaluate the effectiveness of detente policies and debate who bears responsibility for the end of the Cold War. Furthermore, students will continue the study of Asian history, the impact of World War II on Southeast Asia, including the rise of nationalist movements and leaders such as Sukarno and Ho Chi Minh. Students will continue developing their writing skills with a focus on evaluating a variety of perspectives and will complete their internal assessment, a research paper on a chosen area of study. 

Indonesian History: 1300-1900 (42603s)

1 Semester - 0.5 credits - OFFERED SEMESTER ONE ONLY

Grades: 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: None

Scheduling: 5-block class

Indonesian History (c. 1300–1900): Tradewinds and Colonial Encounters challenges students to explore the political, economic, and cultural forces that shaped the Indonesian archipelago before independence, and how Indonesia became deeply connected to the wider world through trade, empire, and cultural exchange. Beginning with Indonesia’s geography and early trade networks, the course traces the impact of the French Revolution, colonialism, and global networks of reform and activism on Indonesian societies.

Students will develop key Social Studies skills such as analytical writing, source analysis, research methods, and discussion-based inquiry in a supportive environment designed for students of varying ability levels, ranging from history enthusiasts to those seeking an engaging elective. From the spice trade to colonial rule, the subject provides students with a strong foundation for understanding Indonesia’s place in world history. 

This can be taken alone as a semester-long course, or together with Indonesian History (1900-present) as a year-long course. This course counts toward an Indonesian Studies credit.

Indonesian History: 1900-Present (42604s)

1 Semester - 0.5 credits - OFFERED SEMESTER TWO ONLY

Grades: 10, 11, 12

Prerequisites: None

Scheduling: 5-block class

Indonesian History (1900-present): Independence, Cold War, and Development  invites students to explore Indonesia’s transformation from a Dutch colony at the turn of the 20th-century to an independent nation navigating a rapidly changing global world. Beginning with Indonesian nationalism and independence, the course examines major twentieth-century developments including the Global Cold War, decolonization, and globalization, with a strong emphasis on Indonesia’s role in influencing and being influenced by these global trends.

Students will build essential Social Studies skills such as historical argumentation, research, source evaluation, and creative presentation through inquiry-based learning and flexible assessments. Suitable for students with a wide range of interests and experience levels, the course encourages critical thinking and reflection on how Indonesia’s modern history connects to global issues today. From independence to the contemporary world, this course offers meaningful insight into where Indonesia has come from and where it is going.

This course can be taken alone as a semester-long course, or together with Indonesian History (c.1300-1900) as a year-long course. This course counts toward an Indonesian Studies credit.

POLITICS

AP Comparative Government (44105y) 

One year – 1 credit

Grade 11, 12

Prerequisite: None  

Scheduling: 6-block class

AP Comparative Government allows students to delve into the political structures of China, Iran, Mexico, Nigeria, Russia, and the United Kingdom by examining and comparing their approaches to global and socioeconomic issues. The course explores the themes of power and authority, legitimacy and stability, democratization, internal/external forces, and methods of political analysis through various disciplinary approaches. Students will learn how to define and describe major political concepts, analyze patterns of political processes and behavior and their consequences, and compare and contrast political institutions and processes across countries. Topics of study include political systems, regimes, and governments; political institutions; political culture and participation; party and electoral system and citizen organization; as well as political and economic changes and development.

AP US Government & Politics (43601y) 

One year – 1 credit

Grade 11, 12

Prerequisite: None

Scheduling: 5-block class

Offered every other year - 2025/26 school year and then again in 2027/28. Not available for SY 2026/27.

AP U.S. Government & Politics students delve into the American political system's intricacies, exploring the United States government's foundations, principles, and functioning. This course equips students with a comprehensive understanding of the U.S. Constitution, the federal structure, and the political processes that shape the nation. Through in-depth analysis of historical documents, landmark Supreme Court cases, and contemporary political events, students develop critical thinking skills to assess the impact of government policies on society. Emphasis on analytical writing and argumentation prepares students to navigate complex political landscapes and become informed, active citizens.

IB H1 Global Politics (44101y) 

One year – 1 credit

Grade 11

Prerequisite: None

Scheduling: 6-block class

Global politics is an exciting, dynamic subject that draws on a variety of disciplines in the social sciences and humanities, reflecting the complex nature of many contemporary political issues.  The four core units of the course cover: Power, Sovereignty and International Relations, Rights and Justice, Development, and Peace and Conflict. The Internal Assessment task encourages students to actively engage with political issues and ideas outside of the classroom and can take the form of interviews, internships, political simulations and investigations. HL students will investigate multiple global political challenges (like poverty or borders or environment) through additional case study research.  

IB S1 Global Politics (44102y) 

One year – 1 credit

Grade 11

Prerequisite: None

Scheduling: 5-block class

Global politics is an exciting, dynamic subject that draws on a variety of disciplines in the social sciences and humanities, reflecting the complex nature of many contemporary political issues.  The four core units of the course cover: Power, Sovereignty and International Relations, Rights and Justice, Development, and Peace and Conflict. The Internal Assessment task encourages students to actively engage with political issues and ideas outside of the classroom and can take the form of interviews, internships, political simulations and investigations.  

IB H2 Global Politics (44103y) 

One year – 1 credit

Grade 12

Prerequisite: IB H1 Global Politics

Scheduling: 6-block class

The second year of the Higher Level IB course continues to develop the necessary concepts and knowledge required for the course.  Academic writing and case study research will continue to be reinforced at this level in preparation for the final IB examination in May. 

IB S2 Global Politics (44104y) 

One year – 1 credit

Grade 12

Prerequisite: IB S1 Global Politics

Scheduling: 5-block class

The second year of the Standard Level IB course continues to develop the necessary concepts and knowledge required for the course.  Academic writing will continue to be reinforced at this level in preparation for the final IB examination in May.

PSYCHOLOGY

Business Psychology (48481s) 

One semester – 0.5 Elective credit

Grades 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite: None

Scheduling: 5-block class

Course Syllabus

Business is about people: for organizations to flourish, managers need to know how to identify and develop the right people, and how to communicate with, lead and motivate them.  In this course, we will investigate questions such as:

• How do managers at successful companies like Google and Apple motivate their people?

• What forms of leadership are the most effective, and what are the most important factors in teamwork?

• How do leaders use Psychology findings to select their applicants and reward their workforce?

• How can we improve the work environment to avoid the dangers of stress and work-related illness?

• What factors influence our decision-making?

Students will explore relevant case studies, key research findings and solve real-life work related problems.  Students taking Psychology, Economics, or Business Studies may enjoy this course.

Criminology (48483s)

One semester (limited to semester two) – 0.5 Elective credit

Grades 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite: None

Scheduling: 5-block class

In this interdisciplinary course, students will explore the field of criminology by examining real-world crimes and cases. Through the analysis of these examples, students will gain a deeper understanding of the theories surrounding human behavior, crime, and punishment. 

Throughout the course, students will engage in critical discussions and debates, investigating questions such as:

• Are criminals born or made?

• What is the definition of crime and how does it vary across different cultures and societies?

• How do social and economic factors influence crime?

• What are the different theories of criminal behavior and how do they explain the causes of crime?

• How do law enforcement agencies and the criminal justice system respond to and deal with crime?

• What are the various forms of punishment and rehabilitation for offenders and how effective are they?

• What are the current issues and debates in criminology and criminal justice?

• How does crime and justice vary cross-nationally?

AP Psychology (4848y)

One year - 1 credit

Grades 11, 12

Prerequisite: None

Scheduling: 6-block class

Advanced Placement Psychology introduces students to the systematic and scientific study of human behavior and mental processes. Equivalent to an introductory college-level course, the curriculum is organized into five key units: biological bases of behavior, cognition, development and learning, social psychology and personality, and mental and physical health. Students explore foundational theories, research methods, and ethical principles while applying psychological concepts to real-world scenarios.

IB H1 Psychology (4840y)

One year - 1 credit

Grade 11

Prerequisite: None

Scheduling: 6-block class

This course is the first year of the two-year IB Higher Level syllabus. IB Psychology is offered to students who have an interest in the systematic study of human behavior and mental processes. The course begins with a brief introduction to research methods used in psychology and then examines cognitive and biological factors involved in learning and cognition.Students will learn how brain structure and chemical messengers influence learning, as well as study cognitive processes such as memory, thinking, and decision-making. Students will also investigate group behavior and personal relationships, learning how sociocultural factors such as conformity and culture influence group behavior. Additionally, students will study how cognitive and biological factors influence attraction and communication in relationships.

Students will apply their knowledge of research methods by conducting research and learning how to carry out an experiment, an interview, and a questionnaire or survey. Higher Level students will also study methods of interpreting data and evaluating research in order to draw conclusions about human behavior.

IB S1 Psychology (4846y)

One year - 1 credit

Grade 11

Prerequisite: None

Scheduling: 5-block class

This course is the first year of the two-year IB Standard Level syllabus. IB Psychology is offered to students who have an interest in the systematic study of human behavior and mental processes. The course begins with a brief introduction to research methods used in psychology and then examines cognitive and biological factors involved in learning and cognition.Students will learn how brain structure and chemical messengers influence learning, as well as study cognitive processes such as memory, thinking, and decision-making. Students will also investigate group behavior and personal relationships, learning how sociocultural factors such as conformity and culture influence group behavior. Additionally, students will study how cognitive and biological factors influence attraction and communication in relationships.

Students will apply their knowledge of research methods by conducting research and learning how to carry out an experiment, an interview, and a questionnaire or survey.

IB H2 Psychology (4845y)

One year – 1 credit

Grade 12

Prerequisite: IB H1 Psychology

Scheduling: 6-block class

In the second year, the course will begin with a focus on health and well-being. Students will investigate the impact of stress on health and explore the role of biological and cognitive factors in post-traumatic stress disorder, including the etiology (origins) of the disorder and its treatment. Finally, students will study human development, with a focus on cognitive development and the development of the self. Students will evaluate psychological theories and explore the roles of neuroplasticity, attachment, and peer influence in development.

Students will continue to develop their writing skills and knowledge of research and will complete their internal assessment: a research proposal investigating a relevant problem. Higher Level students will also continue to evaluate research in terms of bias, credibility, and transferability in order to draw conclusions about how culture, technology, and motivation influence behavior.

IB S2 Psychology (4847y)

One year - 1 credit

Grade 12

Prerequisite: IB S1 Psychology 

Scheduling: 5-block class

In the second year, the course will begin with a focus on health and well-being. Students will investigate the impact of stress on health and explore the role of biological and cognitive factors in post-traumatic stress disorder, including the etiology (origins) of the disorder and its treatment. Finally, students will study human development, with a focus on cognitive development and the development of the self. Students will evaluate psychological theories and explore the roles of neuroplasticity, attachment, and peer influence in development.

Students will continue to develop their writing skills and knowledge of research and will complete their internal assessment: a research proposal investigating a relevant problem.

BUSINESS & ECONOMICS

Business and Society  (4071s)

One semester– 0.5 Elective credit 

Grades 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite:  None 

Scheduling: 5-block class

Business and Society is an interdisciplinary course for students in Grades 10, 11, or 12 who are interested in understanding the foundations of the relationship between businesses and their effects on society. This is a project based course where students develop marketing plans that incorporate social media and other business communication tools. By the end of the course students will develop business plans and some may choose to develop these into actionable plans for real-life businesses.  Students will also learn about business financing and strategic planning. Students should be prepared to present in group settings and work collaboratively with both JIS internal and external business partners. 

IB H1 Business Management (4870y)

One year-1 credit

Grade 11

Prerequisite: None

Scheduling: 6-block class

This IB course provides students with an in-depth understanding of the ways in which individuals and groups interact in a dynamic business environment. Understanding how businesses are managed in order to achieve various goals not solely related to profit is of vital importance in today’s globalizing world. In the first year, students study the historical evolution of business firms, policies related to distribution and marketing, and the dynamic interplay between the external environment and the business firm.  Students also gain an understanding of basic business principles, practices and skills. Furthermore, by learning the application of tools and techniques of analysis, students enhance their understanding of the complex business environment.  Finally, in order to apply their knowledge and skills to real world situations, students examine case studies and significant decisions in business history. This Course represents the first year of a two-year program leading to the IB Business and Management Higher Level examination.

IB S1 Business Management  (4871y)

One year-1 credit

Grade 11

Prerequisite: None

Scheduling: 5-block class

IB Business and Management at Standard Level is designed to give students a foundation in management principles, practices, and skills and to develop an awareness of the ethical and social responsibility issues that exist in business and other organizations both domestically and internationally.  Emphasis is also placed on understanding the business functions of marketing, human resource management, and finance.  Students will be able to make sense of the forces that affect our multicultural business world. Finally, in order to apply their knowledge and skills to real world situations, students examine case studies and significant decisions in business history. This course represents the first year of a two-year program leading to the IB Business and Management Standard Level examination.

IB H2 Business Management (4875y)

One year-1 credit

Grade 12

Prerequisite: IB H1 Business and Management

Scheduling: 6-block class

In the second year, the students continue to study business firms and their policies related to technical innovation, human resource management, and finance. This course extends the concepts of the Year 1 course with respect to acquisition of skills and knowledge. Throughout the year, the course maintains a sharp focus on how to make decisions considering their impact on both the internal and external environment. An important component of this course is the research project that allows the students to apply their knowledge and skills to organizational issues and decision-making processes. The completion of this two-year course provides an excellent foundation for students who wish to take commerce-related courses in the university.

IB S2 Business Management (48711y)

One year-1 credit

Grade 12

Prerequisite: IB S1 Business and Management

Scheduling: 5-block class

In the second year, the students continue the rigorous and critical study of the ways in which individuals and groups interact in a dynamic business environment. It is an academic discipline that examines how business decisions are made and the impact of these decisions on internal and external environments. Business and Management provides students with the skills to make sense of the circumstances that drive change in an interdependent and multicultural world. Emphasis is placed on the ideals of international cooperation and responsive citizenship. This course extends the concepts of the Year 1 course with respect to acquisition of skills and knowledge. The Standard Level course is designed for any students who have an interest in the world around them and who wish to develop skills of analysis and evaluation that they can apply to international real-world situations

AP Macroeconomics (4859y)                          

One year – 1 credit

Grades 11, 12

Prerequisite: None

Scheduling: 5-block class

This course introduces students to the field of economics via macroeconomics. Through taking this course students will gain an excellent understanding of the factors affecting the level of economic activity in nations, and the economic policy making that can be conducted to improve nations’ living standards. Together with the short-term trade off between unemployment and inflation, the course also covers the recent shift in macroeconomic emphasis from ad hoc attempts to steer the economy with fiscal and/or monetary policies, to setting the right policy conditions for long run stability and growth. Students will be assessed by the AP College Board with an external examination in May.  This course specifically prepares students for the AP Macroeconomics examination and there is an expectation that students will take this exam.

AP Microeconomics (4860y)

Each year – 1 credit

Grades 11, 12

Prerequisite: (strongly recommended to take AP Macroeconomics first)

Scheduling: 5-block class

This course provides an excellent foundation for the future college level study of microeconomics. Building from the introductory microeconomic concepts students have covered in the macroeconomics course, students will examine in detail of economic behavior of individuals, firms, and markets. It begins with consumer theory, examining why people like goods and services and how they behave. It progresses to firm theory (e.g. production and costs), exploring such concepts as diminishing marginal productivity and economies of scale, as well as examining particular market types such as price takers, monopolies, and oligopolies. The course closes with capital and resource markets (e.g. wages, benefits, income, as well as natural resources). It often includes special applications such as market failures (e.g. externalities, public goods, information problems which are at the heart of many business/government and environmental issues), poverty, health care, education, social security, etc. This course specifically prepares students for the AP Microeconomics examination and there is an expectation that students will take this exam.

AP Business and Economics (45101y)

1 year - 1 credit

Grades: 11, 12

Prerequisites: None

Scheduling: 6-block class

AP Business with Personal Finance is an introductory, college-level business and personal finance course. Students explore the business disciplines of entrepreneurship, marketing, finance, accounting, and management through real-world business applications, case studies, and project-based learning. In addition, students learn and apply all the National Standards for Personal Financial Education created by the Council for Economic Education and the Jump$tart Coalition for Personal Financial Literacy.

The AP Business with Personal Finance course is designed to be the equivalent of a one-semester college introduction to business course and a one-semester college personal finance course.

Through the course, students will develop and practice business decision-making skills through the analysis and discussion of business cases, and will apply their learning of business concepts to an entrepreneurial project, the Business Canvas Project.  The project will provide students with the opportunity to engage in work-based learning experiences, performing tasks a business founder performs, such as product development, customer research, marketing, and the preparation of financial documents.  The course will culminate with a Financial Advisor Project, in which students will provide financial recommendations to a fictional household based on a financial profile. The recommendation will help the fictional household develop strategies to manage its budget and meet financial goals related to post-secondary education, home-buying, and retirement.

IB H1 Economics (4854y)

Each year – 1 credit

Grades 11

Prerequisite: None

Scheduling: 6-block class

Economics is all around us. It covers almost every aspect of life today; from how much money you have in your pocket to the cause of wars in distant lands. In today’s world it is essential to understand how the global economy works from the macro to the micro level. Economics Higher 1 places everyday financial matters in the wider context of the sometimes mysterious economic forces that shape our lives, tracing the emergence of economic doctrines and explaining how economic systems worked in the past and how they work today. This class begins the process through the first year’s study of the “big picture” in the world of economics. While the IB Higher Economics syllabus follows the same five broad sections as the IB Standard course, greater time, depth and analysis is spent on each section.

IB S1 Economics (4851y)                    

One year – 1 credit

Grade 11

Prerequisite: None

Scheduling: 5-block class

Individuals, firms and governments must constantly make choices that will affect both their own economic well-being and that of society as a whole. Economists examine how such choices are made, the consequences of these choices and develop models and ways of thinking to ensure that the most socially beneficial decisions are made. The IB Standard Level Economic course provides a general introduction to the study of economics. It covers the first two of the four broad sections of the IB economics syllabus: microeconomics, macroeconomic arguments, international issues and development economics.

IB H2 Economics (4865y)

Each year – 1 credit

Grades 12

Prerequisite: IB H1 Economics 

Scheduling: 6-block class

The modern world economy binds together all regions of the globe, from the very rich to the very poor. Globalization and its effects on the world is just one of the many micro topics that are strategically analyzed in this class. While it is extremely important to understand the “big picture” particular emphasis is placed on how financial institutions work, how wealth is created and distributed, how economics relates to politics, and how the global economy works that ties together everyone on the planet.  This course provides an excellent foundation for future college level study of both macro and microeconomics. Students may elect to take the IB Higher level and/or AP Macro/Micro economics examinations after completing the two-year Higher Level study program of economics.

IB S2 Economics (4853y)

One year – 1 credit

Grades 12

Prerequisite:  IB S1 Economics 

Scheduling: 5-block class

This second year of the standard course covers the final two of the four broad sections of the IB economics syllabus: international issues and development economics. We seek to understand the modern world economy and how it binds together all regions of the globe, and how countries are interconnected through trade and financial flows in which changes in one country can impact other countries far removed. We learn how the economic conditions and living standards of populations throughout the globe differ wildly, development economics will seek to understand why and provide economic solutions to improving living standards of the populations of the world.

PANCASILA

Pendidikan Pancasila dan Kewarganegaraan (PPKn) 10 (43307s)

One year - .5 credit

Grade 10

Scheduling: 5-block class

This course is mandatory for all Grade 11 Indonesian passport-holders. Students will explore further into topics pertaining to Pancasila, the state philosophy, and the values that shape Indonesia. Students will also learn about human rights and citizenship issues in line with the Indonesian national curriculum.

Pendidikan Pancasila dan Kewarganegaraan (PPKn) 11 (43305s)

One semester – .5 credit

Grade 11

Scheduling: 4-block class

This course is mandatory for all Grade 11 Indonesian passport-holders. Students will explore further into topics pertaining to Pancasila, the state philosophy, and the values that shape Indonesia. Students will also learn about human rights and citizenship issues in line with the Indonesian national curriculum.

Pendidikan Pancasila dan Kewarganegaraan (PPKn) 12 (43306s)

One semester – .5 credit

Grade 12

Scheduling: 4-block class

This course is mandatory for all Grade 12 Indonesian passport-holders. Students will explore further into topics pertaining to Pancasila, the state philosophy, and the values that shape Indonesia. Students will also learn about human rights and citizenship issues in line with the Indonesian national curriculum.