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The primary goal of Social Studies education is to give learners the knowledge, skills, and competencies to be active and informed citizens who are able to think critically, understand and explain the perspectives of others, make judgments, and communicate ideas effectively.[1] The basis for the curriculum are the National Council for Social Studies (NCSS) standards, the Alaska Literacy standards, the College, Career, and Civic Life (C3) Framework for Social Studies State Standards, and community input.
Although different courses may be available to learners at various schools in the district, depending on learner and staffing needs, all learners receive comparable education on specific skills and concepts. All learners also have opportunities to participate in citizenship activities that model democratic principles and provide decision-making and problem-solving experiences.
While this curriculum is designed to allow for personalized learning, there is continuity between schools through common graduate and course level competencies. Common practices include an emphasis on relevancy and application, critical and historical thinking skills, research skills, civil discourse and communication, respect for diversity, and opportunities to grow as effective participatory citizens. Depending on learners’ needs, a variety of levels of instruction, including Honors and Advanced Placement, may be offered at different schools.
This course is designed to meet the state-mandated requirement for all learners graduating from public high schools in Alaska. Course competencies reflect the culmination of study begun in Kindergarten.
Learners will complete two semesters of world studies. They will choose from first and second semester options to fulfill this requirement. Course competencies allow learners to personalize their education while still fulfilling graduation requirements.
Learners will complete two semesters of United States studies. They will choose from first and second semester options to fulfill this requirement.
Learners will complete a one-semester course designed to help prepare them to be informed and active participants in our representative democracy. They will learn about the structure and function of our government and the role of the individual, as well as institutions, in the American political system.
Learners will take one semester of economics to prepare them to be informed, productive citizens in a complex, global economy.
Elective courses are offered at different schools, when possible, to address learners’ needs and interests. Elective courses are one semester in length and cover a range of special interests, from psychology to current issues.
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[1] “Social Studies Curriculum.” British Columbia, <https://curriculum.gov.bc.ca/curriculum/social-studies>. Accessed 9 Aug. 2019
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