Social Studies Department Table of Contents
Social Studies Department Table of Contents
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Introduction
Introduction
The primary purpose of the Shaker High School social studies department is to help students develop reasoned and informed decision making processes for the public good, as citizens of a culturally diverse, democratic society. Within an integrated grades 9-12 program of study that incorporates history, the social sciences, geography, sociology, political science, psychology, civics, and criminal law, scholarship is developed through a comprehensive multi- disciplinary approach.
At the high school level, the social studies program prepares students with core knowledge as well as authentic, real world skills while simultaneously addressing the New York State Learning Standards. Students in grades 9 and 10 study Global History and Geography, culminating in the Global History Regents examination. The focus shifts to United States History and Government in 11th grade, a course that also ends with a Regents exam. In order to satisfy graduation requirements, seniors may choose between various one semester courses. Students may have an opportunity to request other electives that do not satisfy core requirements but may be taken in addition to them.
Class Key
Class Key
P = Prerequisite
E = Elective
R = Regents
AP = Advanced Placement
UHS = University in the High School
Full Year Courses
Full Year Courses
110 Advanced World History (P)
Full Year 1 Unit
Prerequisites:
Successful completion of 8th grade social studies or
Permission of the Department Supervisor.
The purpose of AP World History is to develop greater understanding of the evolution of global resources and contacts, in interaction with different types of human societies. This understanding is advanced through a combination of selective factual knowledge and appropriate analytical skills. This course highlights the nature of historical changes and their causes and consequences, as well as comparisons among major societies. Focused primarily on the past thousand years of the global experience, the course builds on an understanding of cultural, institutional, and technological events that, along with geography, set the human stage prior to 1000 C.E. Chronology and the study of historical themes from the organizing principles for dealing with change and continuity from that point to the 19th century. Equal emphasis is placed on historical analysis of the Western and non-Western world. This program option is particularly designed for those students whose records indicate superior achievement in the area of social studies, who evidence a serious academic interest in academic challenge in the social science field, and who display a readiness to begin a program sequence that can include the earning of Advanced Placement credit in grades 10, 11 and/or 12, as well as New York State Regents credit. The final examination in this course will be a test developed at Shaker High School. Expected range of achievement for this course will be 90-100.
111 Global History 9H (P)
Full Year 1 Unit
Prerequisites:
Successful completion of social studies 8 or
Permission of the Department Supervisor.
Study is focused on developing historical perspectives on world history from prehistoric times to the early 19th century. Relationships and links are explored in order to learn how the past influences the present. Political, social, and economic themes such as nationalism, ideology, economic systems, modernization and human rights are introduced within a geographic and cultural context.
Students electing this course should be prepared to deal with subjects in an analytical and interpretive manner. Expected range of achievement is 85-100.
112 Global History 9R
Full Year 1 Unit
In studying world history from prehistoric times to the 18th century, unit work will center on political, social and economic topics studied within a historical context. Students will be required to make connections among concepts and themes in Global History and link them across time and place. Instruction will also emphasize the application of social studies skills in multiple historical settings. Emphasis is placed on helping student’s social studies skills such as locating and analyzing data from different sources.
120 AP World History (P)
Full Year 1 Unit
Prerequisites:
Successful completion of 9th grade social studies or
Permission of the Department Supervisor.
The purpose of AP World History is to develop a greater understanding of the evolution of global resources and contacts, and interaction with different types of human societies. This understanding is advanced through a combination of selective factual knowledge and appropriate analytical skills. The course highlights the nature of historical changes and their causes and consequences, as well as comparisons among major societies. Focused primarily on the 19th and 20th century global experience, the course builds on an understanding of cultural, institutional, and technological events that, along with geography, set the stage from the 19th century to contemporary times. Chronology and the study of historical themes form the organizing principles for dealing with change and continuity. Equal emphasis is placed on historical analysis of the Western and non-Western world.
This program is particularly designed for those students whose records indicate superior achievement in the area of social studies and who evidence a serious academic interest in the social science field. The final examination in this course is the New York State Regents Exam in Global History. The Advanced Placement Examination is an optional part of this course. A fee is charged by the College Entrance Examination Board for the exam.
121 Global Studies 10H (P)
Full Year 1 Unit
Prerequisites:
Successful completion of 9th grade social studies or
Permission of the Department Supervisor.
Study is focused on developing historical perspectives on world history from the early 19th century to contemporary times. Relationships and links are explored in order to learn how the past influences the present. Political, social, and economic themes such as nationalism, ideology, economic systems, modernization and human rights are introduced within a geographic and cultural context. Completion of a research paper is a requirement of the course. Students electing to take the course should be prepared to deal with subjects in an analytical and interpretive manner with demonstration of such ability in present course work as one criteria for recommendation. Expected range of achievement is 85-100. The final examination in this course is the New York State Regents Exam in Global History.
122 Global Studies 10R (P)
Full Year 1 Unit
Prerequisite: Global Studies 9.
In studying world history from the early 19th century through contemporary times, unit work will center on political, social and economic topics studied within a historical context. Students will continue to be required to make connections among concepts and themes in Global History and link them across time and place. Preparation will also emphasize the teaching and application of social studies skills in multiple historical settings. Specific time will be devoted to preparing a research paper on some topic related to the course of study. The final examination in this course is the New York State Regents Exam in Global History. Emphasis is placed on helping student’s social studies skills, such as locating and analyzing data from different sources.
130 AP United States History (P)
Full Year 1 Unit
Prerequisites:
Successful completion of 10th grade social studies or
Permission of the Department Supervisor.
This program is particularly designed for those students whose records indicate superior achievement in the area of social studies and who evidence a serious academic interest in the social science field. While not required, it is strongly recommended that students demonstrate excellent reading and writing skills preferably at the Honors ELA level. Major periods in United States history such as the colonial period, American Revolution, Jacksonian Era, Civil War and Reconstruction, Populist-Progressive period, the New Deal, and post-World War II United States are studied in order to develop understanding and appreciation of political, economic and social development of the United States. Students are given the opportunity to develop skill proficiency in reading and critically analyzing historical material, weighing and interpreting historical material, weighing and interpreting historical evidence, and making conclusions based on such evidence. This course is intended to substitute for United States History and Government H for selected students who have successfully completed the H level social studies program in grades 9 and 10, and who wish to earn advanced college placement or credit in United States History. Award of such credit is ultimately determined by the college based on the student’s test grade in Advanced Placement United States History as developed and scored by the Educational Testing Service. Students will also earn Regents credit by taking the New York State Regents Examination in United States History and Government which will serve as the final test grade. The Advanced Placement Examination is an option for students taking this course. A fee is charged by the College Board for the exam.
131 United States History and Government 11H (P)
Full Year 1 Unit
Prerequisites:
Successful completion of 10th grade social studies or
Permission of the Department Supervisor.
This course treats the evolution of the political system, economic organization, civilization, and foreign policy of the United States in a chronological framework. Constitutional and governmental issues receive special emphasis. Students are challenged to explore and evaluate such references as will contribute to a critical analysis of major issues. Use is made of supplementary outside readings, source materials and documents, and interpretive studies. The final examination in the course is the New York State Regents Examination in U.S. History and Government.
132 United States History and Government 11R (P)
Full Year 1 Unit
Prerequisite: Global Studies 10.
This course will include a chronological survey of United States history in general, but the emphasis will be on the U.S. as a developing industrial and postindustrial nation. Constitutional and legal issues will be explored in-depth, as well as the problems of a dynamic industrial society in an increasingly complex and technology-oriented world. Classwork and homework is supplemented by use of various source materials and readings. The final examination in the course is the New York State Regents Examination in U.S. History and Government.
160 AP US Government/Economics H
Full Year 1 Unit
Prerequisites:
Successful completion of United States History and Government or
Permission of the Department Supervisor.
This full-year course integrates curriculum and instruction in Economics and U.S. Government and Politics. Students who elect this course fulfill New York fourth year social studies requirements in Economics and Participation in Government. The first half of the course emphasizes the major concepts and themes of economics integrated into broader context of United States government and politics. Focus is on microeconomics (the various components of the United States’ economy –business, consumers, laborers, capitalists and government) and macroeconomics (the overall operation of the economy in terms of production and prosperity). In the second half of the course, students study the Constitutional underpinnings of the United States government, political beliefs, and behavior of citizens in order to develop understanding and appreciation of the institutions and policy processes of the national government. Major topics include: the Congress, the Presidency, Federal Courts, the Bureaucracy, political parties and interest groups, and public policy. Students will be expected to weave economic principles and practices into their analysis of the U.S. political system. The Advanced Placement Examination is an option for students taking this course. A fee is charged by the College Board for the exam.
160M AP Macroeconomics/Government H (P)
Full Year 1 Credit
Prerequisites:
Successful completion of United States History and Government or
Permission of the Department Supervisor.
AP Macroeconomics is a full-year course, which includes a nine-week political science intensive that fulfills the New York State Participation in Government graduation requirement. Approximately 27 course weeks are devoted to the curriculum objectives for AP Macroeconomics as prescribed by the College Board. This course provides an introduction to concepts consistent with those covered in a typical college introduction macroeconomics course. The emphasis will be on application and not memorization. Students will be expected to successfully demonstrate their ability to identify and apply twenty-five different macroeconomic models to a variety of questions and problems. Students will develop critical thinking skills and learn the tools of analysis economists use to arrive at plausible conclusions. This course will provide instruction in basic economic concepts such a production possibilities, comparative advantage, supply and demand and circular flow as well as the components of the gross domestic product, models for analyzing unemployment and inflation, fiscal and monetary policy, including the tools of the Federal Reserve Board. The Advanced Placement Examination is an option for students taking this course. A fee is charged by the College Board for the exam.
190 Civic Engagement and Leadership
Full year
Note: Prior to admission into this course students will be required to present a project proposal.
This elective course provides students with the opportunity to study and take informed action around authentic issues impacting society while confronting social injustice. In a research oriented, independent lab setting, students will identify and investigate an issue of their choosing, develop methods to solve or mitigate the problem, and take informed action to address their findings. Students are required to highlight their civic action in a Capstone Experience to local and government officials and other stakeholders. Students should be aware that this course requires a considerable amount of time outside normal school hours. The requirement for both Participation in Government and Economics will be satisfied upon completion. This course is open to students in grades 9-12. Completing this course is not required for earning the Seal of Civic Readiness.
Half Year Courses
Half Year Courses
137 UHS Introduction to Sociology
First Semester ½ Unit
This class provides an introduction to basic sociological concepts and themes relevant to the modern world. In addition to core ideas and principles, the course covers topics such as the social construction of the self, race and gender inequality, the sociology of sport, and deviance and social control. While emphasizing college preparatory skills, this elective is appropriate for all social science majors and those looking to enter fields such as social work, psychology, or as a general education requirement for non-majors. Students in this course will have the opportunity to enroll in the SUNY University in the High School Program. As a result, students may earn three SUNY course credits upon successful completion of course work. This course is open to seniors in good academic standing only. In the event more students request the course than space allows, a lottery will be held to determine the course roster.
138 War in the United States
Second Semester ½ Unit
This senior level elective explores the connection between the national security interests of the United States and its democratic principles. Case studies of conflicts from the Vietnam War to the War on Terror will examine the instruments of national power, the long-term effects on US society, and the participatory role of the citizen. Students will gain insight into philosophical and psychological nature of warfare. Using a variety of teaching methods, the course will explore the purposes, objectives, and means of the way the US has conducted military operations. In addition to battles and tactics, an assessment of the impact of war on US society and policy will be addressed. This course is open to seniors only. In the event more students request the course than space allows, a lottery will be held to determine the course roster. This course meets the ½ Unit Participation in Government requirement.
145 UHS Psychology
Both Semesters ½ Unit
This course is an introductory college preparatory course incorporating important concepts from the fields of psychology. Emphasis is placed on studying human behavior and understanding human nature. Among the unit topics are: the nature of the behavioral sciences and human behavior, physical and mental ability, cultural and social determinants of behavior, abnormal behavior, and behavior therapy and modification. Within each of these units, study is made from a psychological and/or sociological perspective. Specific topics include human aggression, adolescence, alienation, intelligence, and schizophrenia. Emphasis is placed on psychological research through written projects culminating in a final paper involving the use of multiple research strategies. The final grade for this course is an average of two quarterly grades and final projects. Students in this course will have the opportunity to enroll in the University in the High School Program. As a result, students may earn college credits upon earning a passing grade.
This course is open to seniors in good academic standing only. In the event more students request the course than space allows, a lottery will be held to determine the course roster.
148 Economics: Principles and Applications
Either Semester ½ Unit
This semester-long course will examine real world applications of key economic concepts related to students’ lives. Focus will emphasize personal responsibility and concrete practical skills necessary to ensure financial well-being. Sound management practices will be analyzed as they relate to the American Capitalist System, the impact of individuals in Factor and Product Markets, and the roles of individuals in the formation of economic policy. This course meets the ½ unit Economics requirement. This course is open to seniors.
156 United States and Human Rights
Either Semester ½ Unit
This course examines the intersection of America and human rights. This course will explore the psychology of conflict, the notion of upstanders and bystanders, and US reaction to genocide in the 20th century. Students will analyze the role of active citizens, government action, and modern humanitarian issues in the world today. This course meets the 1/2 Unit Participation in Government requirement. This course is open to seniors.
157 Media & Politics
Either Semester ½ Unit
This semester-long course is designed to engage students in a study of the ways in which mass media influences elections and public policy. Students will study such topics as the free press in American history; journalistic ethics; the use of popular media (music & movies) to engage civic participation; the influence of social media on elections; civic literacy and the critical evaluation of propaganda and “fake news;” the consequences of media consolidation and the decline of print media; and the risks and rewards of civic transparency (Wikileaks). Within the course, students will analyze reporting on current events to determine bias and credibility, examine case studies of First Amendment debates, evaluate media campaigns by advocacy groups, and prepare a full, multi-media campaign in support of a public policy issue. The final grade in this course will be the average of the two quarterly grades and a third grade earned by completing a required final project. This course meets the ½ Unit Participation in Government requirement. This course is open to seniors.
180 Politics of Green Economics
Either Semester ½ Unit
How do US consumers, producers, and interest groups collectively confront the urgency of climate change, environmental injustice, and economic security? It is easy to say that everyone wants and deserves clean air, water, and land but it is much more difficult to reach consensus in our political and economic systems on how to get there. This semester-long course will explore the challenges and opportunities presented by pursuing a more sustainable environmental policy and economy as well as the controversies involved in achieving them. The role of local, state, and national governments, as well as international agencies will be analyzed and evaluated. This course will meet either the ½ unit of Economics OR ½ unit of Participation in Government requirement. This course is open to seniors.
181 Politics and Economics of US Foreign Policy
Either Semester ½ Unit
This semester-long course examines U.S. foreign political and economic decisions and the processes by which they are made in an interconnected world and global economy. This course will study the institutions and individuals responsible for foreign policy decisions and consider current U.S. foreign policymaking with a special emphasis on the policy context and choices. This course will provide a dual understanding of the United State’ role in world affairs through the lens of the political and economic motivations that shape American actions abroad. Students will actively participate in the classroom to better understand the roles and responsibilities of American and global citizenship. In addition, a final project is necessary in order to fulfill the course requirements. This course will meet either the ½ unit of Economics OR ½ unit of Participation in Government requirement. This course is open to seniors.
182 Inequality in America
Either Semester ½ Unit
This semester-long course provides an exploration of the various ways in which class inequality impacts American society. The course will analyze how members of various social classes live and relate to one another in America. We will explore the politics of inequality with a focus on strategies used by the wealthy to maintain the status quo. We will also explore the hopes and dreams of all middle class, working class and poor people. This course will explore the meaning of the “American Dream” and discuss the obstacles that impede the ability of many Americans to partake in that dream. The readings in this course will emphasize the dynamics of inequality as they intersect with class, race and gender. This course will explore the multitude of ways in which inequality is the result of the way our society is structured. Students will be expected to respond verbally and in writing to a number of different forms of content. We will be utilizing newspaper articles and long-form journalism, book excerpts, and a variety of other media based content. This will be a project-based curriculum with research papers, essays, film analysis and presentations among the assessments used for the course. This class will also require that students are active participants in class discussions. This course will meet either the ½ unit of Economics OR ½ unit of Participation in Government requirement. This course is open to seniors.
183 Politics and Economics of Gender
Either Semester ½ Unit
This semester long course will provide students with a framework to understand the role that gender plays in defining and determining access to leadership and power in the U.S., both politically and economically. We will explore the historical roots of women’s inequality, with a focus on economic issues such as the gender pay gap, work and motherhood, and structural inequalities in the labor force. We will also explore public policy issues related to gender, such as affordable childcare, paid maternity leave, minimum wage and affirmative action. We will compare the status of women in the US to other countries around the world, and look at examples of women in political and economic leadership positions. This course will meet either the ½ unit of Economics OR ½ unit of Participation in Government requirement. This course is open to seniors.
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