Social Studies

CRITERIA FOR HONORS or ADVANCEMENT PLACEMENT

Entrance into the Advanced Placement or Honors Program will be considered based on the following criteria: recommendation of the student’s teacher, grade of an “A” in a previous course, and the approval of the Social Studies supervisor. Students who wish to continue in the Advanced Placement or Honors Program require the recommendation of the student’s teacher, a grade of “B” in previous Advanced Placement or Honors course, and the approval of the Social Studies supervisor.

CORE COURSES OF STUDY:

Grade 9:

CP WORLD HISTORY AND CULTURES 1115

World History and Cultures is an examination of Western and Non-Western history. It specifically aims at the major historical events from the early 1400s to the present. World History will focus on: how people have sought and still seek to meet their basic needs through a variety of economic systems; how people have pursued security through various political institutions; and how humanity has transmitted knowledge and culture through the centuries. In summary, this course will study the fabric of civilizations, the contributions of individuals, groups, institutions and ideas. This course is aligned with the New Jersey Core Curriculum Standards.

CREDIT: 5

TYPE: College Prep

OTHER REQUIREMENTS: Admin Approval Only

CP WORLD HISTORY AND CULTURES 1116 

World History and Cultures is an examination of Western and Non-Western history. It specifically aims at the major historical events from the early 1400s to the present. World History will focus on: how people have sought and still seek to meet their basic needs through a variety of economic systems; how people have pursued security through various political institutions; and how humanity has transmitted knowledge and culture through the centuries. In summary, this course will study the fabric of civilizations, and the contributions of individuals, groups, institutions and ideas. This course is aligned with the New Jersey Core Curriculum Standards.

CREDIT: 5

TYPE: College Prep

OTHER REQUIREMENTS: Admin Approval Only

Grade 10

CP UNITED STATES HISTORY I 1205 

United States History I encompasses the period from the early colonial developments of the American continent through the Progressive Era at the dawn of the 20th century. Along with the emphasis on US History, there will be segments that focus on developments within the State of New Jersey. A strong focus is placed on skills necessary to study history. These skills include note taking, critical thinking, interpretation of primary sources, textual analysis, and differentiating fact and opinion. This course is aligned with the New Jersey Core Curriculum Standards.

CREDIT: 5

PREREQUISITES: 1115 World History and Cultures

TYPE: College Prep GRADE:10

CP UNITED STATES HISTORY I 1206 

United States History I encompasses the period from the early colonial developments of the American continent through the Progressive Era at the dawn of the 20th century. Along with the emphasis on US History, there will be segments that focus on developments within the State of New Jersey. A strong focus is placed on skills necessary to study history. These skills include note taking, critical thinking, interpretation of primary sources, textual analysis, and differentiating fact and opinion. This course is aligned with the New Jersey Core Curriculum Standards.

CREDIT: 5

PREREQUISITES: 1116 World History and Cultures

TYPE: College Prep

OTHER REQUIREMENTS: Admin Approval Only

HONORS UNITED STATES HISTORY I 1235 

Honors United States History I focuses on significant events from the period of colonization through the end of the 19th Century. The approach emphasizes selected economic, political, social and intellectual developments. There will be segments with a focus on these developments within the State of New Jersey. Students are encouraged to think analytically and creatively in order to interpret a variety of source materials and to understand the implications of the past on the present. There is a heavy emphasis on reading comprehension and writing. This course is aligned with the New Jersey Core Curriculum Standards.

COURSE NOTE: "A" average in World History, Current Social Studies Teacher Recommendation and Social Studies Supervisor Approval required.

CREDIT: 5

TYPE: Honors

PREREQUISITE: 1115 - World History and Cultures

OTHER REQUIREMENTS: Admin Approval Only

Grade 11

UNITED STATES HISTORY II 1305

United States History II focuses on the significant events and developments from 1900 (with the United States as an emerging world power) through contemporary American Society. There will be segments to discuss the role New Jersey played in the development of the United States. A research paper is required; therefore, reference skills and critical thinking are stressed. Emphasis will be placed on the political, economic and social factors that have impacted American history. There will be segments with a focus on these developments within the State of New Jersey.

CREDIT: 5 

TYPE: College Prep

PREREQUISITE: 1205 - United States History I

UNITED STATES HISTORY II 1306

United States History II focuses on the significant events and developments from 1900 (with the United States as an emerging world power) through contemporary American Society. There will be segments to discuss the role New Jersey played in the development of the United States. A research paper is required; therefore, reference skills and critical thinking are stressed. Emphasis will be placed on the political, economic and social factors that have impacted American history. There will be segments with a focus on these developments within the State of New Jersey.

CREDIT: 5

TYPE: College Prep

PREREQUISITE: 1206 - United States History I

OTHER REQUIREMENTS: Admin Approval Only

HONORS UNITED STATES HISTORY II 1325 

Honors United States History II offers students the opportunity to study the significant events and developments from the period of expanded American imperialism through the present in greater depth. Students will be assigned supplemental readings in order to compare and contrast, and evaluate the interpretations of various historians. Assignments will be comprehensive. The ability to analyze and synthesize historical material is essential. A research paper is required; therefore, reference skills and critical thinking are stressed. Emphasis will be placed on the political, economic and social factors that have impacted American History. This course is aligned with the New Jersey Core Curriculum Standards.

COURSE NOTE: A average in CP USI or B average or better in Honors USI. Current Social Studies Teacher Recommendation and Social Studies Supervisor Approval.

CREDIT: 5 

TYPE: Honors

PREREQUISITE: Teacher recommendation and a B in 1235 - Honors United States History I or an A in 1205- United States History I

OTHER REQUIREMENTS: Admin Approval Only

ADVANCED PLACEMENT UNITED STATES HISTORY 1395 

Advanced Placement US History II is designed to be equivalent to an introductory college level course. The course will survey American History from the Gilded Age to the present. There will be extensive reading and writing assignments. At the conclusion of the course students should plan to take the Advanced Placement Examination. Exam outcomes may result in college credit. Students planning to take this course should be prepared for a demanding, extremely challenging experience. This course is aligned with the New Jersey Core Curriculum Standards.

COURSE NOTE: A average in Honors US I or United States History I . Current Teacher Recommendations and Social Studies Supervisor Approval.

CREDIT: 5

TYPE: Advanced Placement

PREREQUISITE: 1235 - HONORS UNITED STATES HISTORY I or 1205 - UNITED STATES HISTORY I

OTHER REQUIREMENTS: Admin Approval Only

SOCIAL STUDIES ELECTIVES:

GEN Z 

This course will introduce students to the events of contemporary history that have shaped the world they’ve grown up in. Through this course, students will develop their reading and critical analysis skills by examining the world around them. Beginning with the election of 2000, students will explore how globalization has changed the national landscape and altered the global stage as a whole. Focusing on themes such as terrorism, the internet age, multiculturalism, and modern trends; this course is meant to help students better understand the forces that have worked to create our modern age. Students will also apply sociological perspectives to analyze the diversity of the United States through evolving cultural values, lifestyles, and the contributions of a wide array of Americans, encompassing aspects such as race, ethnicity, gender, social class, sexual orientation, and disability status. 

CREDIT: 2.5

TYPE: College Prep

GRADE: 10-12

AMERICAN LAW 1343 

American Criminal Law examines the role of law in American society, the processes and procedures of the legal system, and the limits of the law. Students are expected to complete assigned textbook and supplemental readings, written case analyses, examinations and position papers. Topics such as Criminal Law, Criminal Procedures, Tort Law, Contract and Consumer Law, Property Law, Family Law and Constitutional Rights will be discussed. The student will also be expected to actively participate in discussions, debates, mock trials and moot court simulations. Guest speakers will be a part of the course.

CREDIT: 5

TYPE: College Prep

GRADE: 9-12

DIMENSIONS OF PREJUDICE, GENOCIDE AND THE HOLOCAUST 1403

Dimensions of Prejudice, Genocide and the Holocaust will enhance students’ understanding of global genocide, including the Native American genocide, the Armenian genocide, the Ukrainian genocide, the Holocaust. The Cambodian genocide, the Rwandan genocide as well as current genocides and hate groups. A variety of studies will permit students to gain a broader understanding of prejudice and racism as well as to develop their insight and knowledge of man’s inhumanity to man. Comparisons of worldwide genocides will be traced throughout the 20th century with an in-depth focus on the Nazi Holocaust.

CREDIT: 2.5

TYPE: College Prep

GRADE: 10-12

HUMAN BEHAVIOR 1423

Human Behavior is an introductory course, which covers topics designed to expose students to the body of knowledge that helps to understand, predict and control behaviors in others and ourselves. Learning, development, abnormal behaviors, personality and physiological explanations of human behavior, cognitive development in children, moral reasoning, the effects of the brain and body on behavior, perception, interpersonal attractiveness, gender, and social psychology are just some of the topics that will be discussed in great detail.

COURSE NOTE: Full Year Course

CREDIT: 5

TYPE: College Prep

GRADE: 10-12

SOCIOLOGY 1443

Sociology covers the basic principles of Sociology. Topics include culture, social structure, socialization, social interaction, groups and social change. It also includes units about social class, racial and ethnic relations and gender. Emphasis is placed on the analysis of current social problems such as peer pressure, racism, divorce, deviant behavior and crime. This course by its nature requires student participation in a wide range of activities such as discussion, simulations, and experiments.

COURSE NOTE: Full Year Course

CREDIT: 5

TYPE: College Prep

GRADE: 10-12

COMPARATIVE RELIGIONS 1503 

Comparative Religions will provide students with an in-depth study of the history and culture of world religions. There will be an emphasis on the examination of beliefs, rituals, symbolism and the lives of religious founders. Also explored will be the religions’ current status in the world, in an attempt to expose students to a greater appreciation and understanding of world culture.

CREDIT: 2.5

TYPE: College Prep

GRADE: 9-12

WOMEN’S STUDIES 1523 

Women’s Studies will provide an introduction to the historical contributions of women in United States History. Students will evaluate the evolving role of women in society and explore the historical impact of women on U.S. History in a chronological sequence. A multifaceted approach addressing economic, cultural, social, and political factors related to American women is at the heart of the course.

CREDIT: 2.5

TYPE: College Prep

GRADE: 10-12

AMERICA'S MILITARY HISTORY 1705

This course would focus on the role of the United States and the short- and long-term social, political, economic, and geographic effects of our nation's wars on our society. An emphasis will be placed on not only military tactics and operations, but also on the human side of war through studying life on the home front and the brave actions of individual soldiers. A connection to character education will be made through the infusion of the Medal of Honor curriculum and guest speakers will be invited to speak about their personal experiences. Films, documentaries, field trips, and online resources will be emphasized as tools of instruction in this course.

COURSE NOTE: 2.5 credits/semester course

CREDIT: 2.5

TYPE: College Prep

GRADE: 10-12

ADVANCED PLACEMENT GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS 1385 

Advanced Placement Government & Politics is designed to be equivalent to an introductory college level course. This course provides an analytical perspective of government and politics in the United States. It involves both the study of general concepts used to interpret U.S. politics and the analysis of specific case studies. It also requires familiarity with the various institutions, groups, beliefs, and ideas that constitute U.S. political reality. The willingness to engage in class discussion, simulation activities and project-based learning is essential to success in this course.  At the conclusion of the course, students should plan to take the Advanced Placement exam. Exam outcomes may result in college credits.

COURSE NOTE: Current Social Studies teacher recommendation and Social Studies Supervisor approval required.

CREDIT: 5

TYPE: Advanced Placement

GRADE: 11-12

PREREQUISITE: “B” or better in US II Honors or AP American History “A” average in US I.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT PSYCHOLOGY 1435

Advanced Placement Psychology is designed to be equivalent to an introductory college level course. It is designed to introduce students to the systematic and scientific study of the behavioral and mental processes of human beings and other animals. Students will be exposed to the psychological facts, principles and phenomena associated with each of the major sub-fields within psychology. They also will learn about the methods psychologists use to explore the processes involved in normal and abnormal perceptions, thoughts, feelings and actions. The following topics will be covered in this course: History, Methods, Biological Bases of Behavior, Sensational and Perception, States of Consciousness, Learning, Cognition, Emotion and Motivation, Developmental Psychology, Personality, Testing, Abnormal Psychology, Treatment of Psychological Disorders and Social Psychology. At the conclusion of the course, students are expected to take the Advanced Placement exam. Exam outcomes may result in college credits. Expectations for this class include extensive essay writing, significant individual study, and a collegiate style learning environment. Students planning to take this course should be prepared for a demanding, challenging experience.

PREREQUISITES: Method 1: “B” or better in Human Behavior

Method 2: “A” or better in Current Academic Social Studies course and “B” or better in Biology

CREDIT: 5

TYPE: Advanced Placement

GRADE: 11-12

ADVANCED PLACEMENT 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.

Prerequisites: Application Packet and Faculty Interview

CREDIT: 5.0

TYPE: Advanced Placement

GRADE: 11-12

ADVANCED PLACEMENT EUROPEAN HISTORY 1495 

Advanced Placement European History is designed to be equivalent to an introductory college level course. The course will survey Western European history from the Renaissance period to the present. It is an opportunity to study Western Civilization, its origins and developments in areas such as art, literature, philosophy and music, as well as the evolution of political, social, and economic institutions. At the conclusion of the course, students should plan to take the Advanced Placement exam. Exam outcomes may result in college credits.

PREREQUISITES: "B+" or better average in 1325 Honors US History II or 1235 AP American History

Current Social Studies Teacher Recommendation

Social Studies Supervisor Approval required.

CREDIT: 5

TYPE: Advanced Placement

Grade: 11-12

ADVANCED PLACEMENT HUMAN GEOGRAPHY

AP Human Geography is the equivalent of an introductory college course in human or cultural geography. The course is taught in a thematic and global approach, centered around the concepts of economic geography, cultural geography, political geography, and urban geography. Through a problem based approach and analysis of the different regions of the world, students will gain more of an understanding of the world we currently live in, but will also be able to identify the historical implications of human interaction with their surroundings. Students will also learn and apply their understanding of methodology and tools used by geographers to study the world.

CREDIT: 5 

TYPE: Advanced Placement

GRADE: 10-12 

PREREQUISITE: “B” or better average in World History. Supervisor Approval 

TOMORROW'S TEACHERS 1701

Tomorrow's Teachers is a full-year course for students who are interested in a career in education. Students study current issues in education as well as educational psychology. Students will learn how to design lessons, manage student behavior and most importantly, how students learn! In addition to hands-on classroom activities, the class affords students the opportunity to have a brief teaching internship to practice their craft. 

Tomorrow's Teachers Promotional Video

Prerequisites: Application Packet and Faculty Interview

CREDIT: 5.0

TYPE: Approval Only / General Elective

GRADE: 11-12

BLACK HISTORY IN AMERICA 

An elective course that examines the history and culture of Africa and the African-American experience in an interdisciplinary format, including an analysis of the unique historical, cultural, and social developments from the Middle Passage to the present day. The course will address the literary and artistic contributions of African-Americans to American culture. Critical thinking, reading, writing, and oral presentation skills are emphasized. 

Prerequisites: Application Packet and Faculty Interview

CREDIT: 5.0

TYPE: College Prep

GRADE: 10 - 12

HISTORY THROUGH FILM 

History Through Film offers students a unique view of history through a Hollywood lens.  Through film analysis and discussion, students will gain insight into historical events and the power of media in our journey of understanding history.  In addition to learning the historical accounts, students will explore character development, conflict, theme, symbolism, foreshadowing, and geographical/social/cultural settings.  Students will also evaluate historical accuracy and inaccuracies portrayed in film. Participating in this course will give students the opportunity to use critical thinking skills to enrich their study of history.

COURSE NOTE: 2.5 credits/semester course

CREDIT: 2.5

TYPE: College Prep

GRADE: 11-12