Full Year ~ Course Number: 4090
This year-long course is designed to provide students the opportunity to more deeply develop their reading, writing and research skills while learning to analyze World History eras and themes. Students will be required to engage in basic research assignments using primary and secondary resources to examine the principles of civilization, government and democracy in a historical context.
*Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation.
Full Year ~ Course Number: 4091
World History is a year-long course that explores the scope of history from early human interactions through the present day. The course provides the opportunity for students to see the interconnectedness of the human story and to examine a variety of themes, events, and movements. Over the year, students will develop academic skills by using primary and secondary sources, and by engaging in inquiry-based and collaborative activities. Furthermore, they will build their knowledge and skills in research, writing, and analysis.
This freshman level class is designed to give students a solid foundation of social studies skills to allow for success in high school.
Full Year ~ Course Number: 4092
Honors World History is a year-long course, offering students the opportunity to become more worldly and to challenge their worldview. We will travel through time and around the world: from the Stone Age to the expansion of vast world empires; from Revolutionary Europe to Post-colonial Africa; from Russia to the Middle East to the European Union to the Americas and beyond. Students will examine history through different lenses, including societal structures, belief systems, governments, geography, conflict, and economics.
We will explore global themes, perspectives and questions over the course of the year. Throughout these explorations, students will practice and develop important academic and life skills. These include critical reading, note taking, research and writing, study skills, geography, analysis, civil discourse and collaboration. This upper-level course will prepare students for other advanced history classes.
*Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation.
Semester 1 ~ Course Number: 7790
Shaker Studies is a Freshmen only, semester-long course which represents a unique partnership between GNGHS and the Sabbathday Lake Shaker Village in New Gloucester. This is an academic opportunity found nowhere else in the world! In addition to studying various aspects of Shakerism in the classroom, the class travels regularly to the Village and other locations to study the physical environment, meet with members of the Shaker Community, and use primary and secondary resources in the Village archives. Students should expect an increased workload and will complete several projects and writing assignments throughout the semester. Class size is limited to 16 students.
*Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation.
Semester 2 ~ Course Number: 4092S
Honors World History is a semester-long course offering students the opportunity to become more worldly and to challenge their worldview. We will travel through time and around the world: from Ancient History to the Silk Roads to Revolutionary Europe and Post-colonial Africa; from Russia to China to Iran to Ghana to the European Union and the Americas. Students will examine history through different lenses, including societal structures, religion, politics, geography, economics and civics.
We will explore global themes, perspectives and questions over the course of the year. Throughout these explorations, students will practice and develop important academic and life skills. These include critical reading, note taking, research and writing, study skills, geography, analysis, civil discourse and collaboration. This upper level course will prepare students for other advanced history classes. Class size is limited to 16 students.
*Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation.
Full Year ~ Course Number: 7795
This year-long course is designed to provide students the opportunity to develop their reading, writing, and research skills in a more relaxed thematic approach. Students will be required to engage in basic research assignments using primary and secondary resources to examine the principles of citizenship, government, and democracy in a historical context.
*Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation.
Semester ~ Course Number: 2218
This fall semester-long course explores the complex development within the theme of American and National Identity. This theme focuses on understanding the constitutional foundations, evolving definitions of citizenship, and how diverse populations in different eras of American history have constructed and negotiated American values. For example, how have interpretations of constitutional rights changed over time? Other themes in American history explored in the course may include Migration and Settlement, and Politics and Power.
Semester ~ Course Number: 2219
This spring semester-long course explores critical themes in United States history, with a specific focus on the themes Work, Exchange, and Technology and America in the World. How have our economic and labor systems changed over time? How has the role of the U.S. in the world changed over time? Students will examine the complex interactions between economic systems, technological innovation, and global relationships that have shaped the American experience.
Full Year ~ Course Number: 4106
This year long US History course is designed to provide students the opportunity to deeply develop their reading, writing and analysis skills in addition to learning US History eras and themes. Students completing this course will gain the skills and content knowledge necessary for success in future advanced social studies courses.
*Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation.
Grades: 11&12
Semester ~ Course Number: 6873
The foundations level of Personal Finance will explore all of the following topics at a different pace and potentilaly with variations on assingments to suit the students. This class explores the aspects of economic decisions both as a consumer and an employee. Job applications, resumes and cover letters related to job search will be investigated as well as employee items such as benefits, wages and tax preparation. Consumer credit topics such as student loans, credit cards and mortgages will be introduced. The students will also research savings and investment opportunities. This course meets the GNG personal finance graduation requirement.
*Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation.
Grades: 10*, 11, 12
Semester ~ Course Number: 4117
Personal Finance explores the aspects of economic decisions both as a consumer and an employee. Job applications, resumes and cover letters related to job search will be investigated as well as employee items such as benefits, wages and tax preparation. Consumer credit topics such as student loans, credit cards and mortgages will be introduced. The students will also research savings and investment opportunities. This course meets the GNG personal finance graduation requirement.
*Sophomores: IB pathway or PATHS.
Semester ~ Course Number: 4115
The study of Political Science will include students developing an understanding of comparative political systems. Emphasis is placed on civic responsibility. Students will understand the types, purposes and evolution of various governments and will explain differences in structure, ideology and values. The relationship between local and state government with the federal government will also be examined.
Semester ~ Course Number: 6872
In this class juniors and seniors will embark on an exciting journey through the vibrant world of American pop culture. This course will explore how music, movies, fashion, and social media have influenced key themes in US history, such as identity, innovation, and social change. Students will gain a deeper understanding of how pop culture reflects and shapes the American experience and explore American history through a different lens. Join us to discover the power of pop culture in shaping America's past and present!
Semester ~ Course Number: 4113
Students will develop the skills and knowledge necessary to understand complex legal issues in our society. Students will demonstrate an understanding in the following areas: constitutional, criminal, civil, contract, business, employment and business law. Students are expected to research and analyze various legal cases and decisions.
Semester~ Course Number: 0222
This elective is open to students. Students will gain an understanding of the history and nature of psychology as an academic discipline and potential careers in the field. The application of psychological concepts and principles to everyday life will be explored, as well as the major theories of psychology.
History through Film
Semester ~ Course Number: 4136
How can movies and other films help us learn about history? In this class students will also use films, photographs, editorial cartoons, and posters as primary sources to learn about how history is represented on film, how those films can teach us about the people that created them, and how those films can teach us about the times in which they were created. We will also explore how films and other media sources not only reflect, but can shape the evolving human story through their influence on individuals and societies. In addition to watching movies, students should expect to read, analyze, collaborate, discuss, debate, present and create products.
Genocide Studies
Semester ~ Course Number: 7792
This semester long course examines the horrific reality of genocide in our modern world. The first half of the class investigates fundamental questions pertaining to genocide through the lens of the Holocaust. These include: who should be held responsible for genocide? What is the nature of good and evil, blame and responsibility, duty and dissent? Can individuals, groups, governments and the international community effectively prevent, punish and shed light on genocide? During the second half of the course students learn about more recent genocides. These might include Cambodia, Rwanda, Guatemala, Rwanda, Bosnia, and the ongoing terror faced by Uyghurs in China. The class will grapple with how organized mass murder remains possible in modern times.
Civics
Semester ~ Course Number: 7791
Civics is designed to provide students with a comprehensive analysis of the American government's authority, structure, and procedures, including the Federal, State, and local politics. Major topics include the U.S. Constitution, the Separation of Powers, and the system of Checks and Balances. Of particular interest will be the exploration of the foundational beliefs fo the major and minor political parties found in the United States. Emphasis will be placed on the rights and responsibilities of United States citizenship. Students should develop critical thinking skills needed to interpret and make judgments about government decisions in a complex society and world. Currents events as they relate to course topics are discussed throughout the semester.
Modern Middle East
Semester ~ Course Number: 1999
Revolution. Terrorism. War. Religion. The Middle East is home to the oldest civilizations in world history, but this course takes a more modern approach. The goal of The Modern Middle East is to give you context on the rapid, dramatic, and often violent events and conflicts facing this historic region. The majority of the course focuses on the past century of profound and often global change. Some of the major topics and themes include the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Iran’s quest for nuclear power, mass migration and colonial occupation, Arab nationalism and oil, and the 2011 Arab Spring. Upon completion of this course, students will be able to walk away with a stronger understanding of the current state of affairs in the Middle East and the regions’ impact on the world at-large.
Economics
Semester ~ Course Number: 4112
Students develop and understanding of the economic world, consumer education, and the tools necessary to make wise economic decisions. Students will analyze comparative economic systems and how they evolve overtime. Students will demonstrate and apply skills in taxation, finance, employment, investments, and advertising.
Grades: 10, 11, 12
Full Year ~ Course Number: 4124
Honors/ Advanced Placement United States History is a fast-paced study of United States history from 1607 to the present. The study of the economic, political, cultural, intellectual, geographical and social aspects of US History create the foundation of the course. Reading and writing requirements are significantly greater than other courses. Students concentrate on various skills such as writing essays, primary document investigation and interpretation, prioritizing of material, and analyzing historical data and ideas.
This class will prepare students who choose to take the AP United States History exam in the spring and for a rigorous college-level curriculum. Students enrolling in the course should have a high level of interest in US History and a willingness and ability to handle the workload. Summer Assignment: Students are expected to complete summer reading and writing assignments, which are due on the first day of class in the fall.
NOTE: Because there is a significant enough difference in material, expectations, and requirements, students may take both AP US History as 10th graders and IB History of the Americas as juniors and seniors. AP US History focuses on the United States only, while IB History of the Americas focuses on the United States' history as a part of history in the western hemisphere. Both meet the TWO semesters of US History requirement for graduation.
*Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation.
Grades: 11&12
Full Year ~ Course Number: 1009
History of the Americas 1 is the first year of a two-year International Baccalaureate course. The History of the Americas course is unique in that it not only covers the major events in the history of the United States, but also important developments in the history of our neighbors to the north and south; Canada; Mexico; Central America, and South America. Starting from around the year 1760 and working up through the present, students will explore history through the concepts of cause and consequence, continuity and change, perspectives, and significance. These concepts will frame the study of topics such as commonalities and differences in independence movements; nation-building eras; influence of the Americas in World Affairs; World War I; the Great Depression; World War II; the Cold War, and the challenges as we enter the 21st century.
*Prerequisites: Honors World History or World History; students are encouraged to have already completed US History or AP US History.
Grade: 12
Full Year ~ Course Number: 1209
History of the Americas 2 is the second year of a two-year International Baccalaureate course. The History of the Americas course is unique in that it not only covers the major events in the history of the United States, but also important developments in the history of our neighbors to the north and south; Canada; Mexico; Central America, and South America. Starting from around the year 1760 and working up through the present, students will explore history through the concepts of cause and consequence, continuity and change, perspectives, and significance. These concepts will frame the study of topics such as commonalities and differences in independence movements; nation-building eras; influence of the Americas in World Affairs; World War I; the Great Depression; World War II; the Cold War, and the challenges as we enter the 21st century. In year 2, students will also have the opportunity to demonstrate their understanding of these concepts and historical methods through independent research.
*Prerequisite: IB History of the Americas HL 1
Grades 11&12
Semester ~ Course Number: 1024
The Theory of Knowledge (TOK) course provides an opportunity for students to reflect on the nature, scope, and limitations of knowledge and the process of knowing. The main focus of TOK is not on students acquiring new knowledge but on helping students to reflect on, and put into perspective, what they already know. It engages students in reflection on how knowledge is gained and determined. The goal of TOK is to help students become effective critical thinkers and communicators. TOK 1 starts at the beginning of semester 2.
This course is required for all IB diploma candidates but is open to others as space is available.
Grade: 12
Semester ~ Course Number: 1224
The Theory of Knowledge (TOK) course provides an opportunity for students to reflect on the nature, scope, and limitations of knowledge and the process of knowing. The main focus of TOK is not on students acquiring new knowledge but on helping students to reflect on, and put into perspective, what they already know. It engages students in reflection on how knowledge is gained and determined. The goal of TOK is to help students become effective critical thinkers and communicators. Theory of Knowledge 2 (TOK) is a semester one course.
This course is required for all IB diploma candidates but is open to others as space is available.
*Prerequisite: IB Theory of Knowledge 1
Grades: 11&12
Full Year ~ Course Number: 1201
IB World Religions seeks to promote respect for the diversity of religious beliefs, with the aim of fostering international and inter-religious understanding. Students dig deep to examine the historical developments, beliefs and cultural practices among practitioners of five of the world’s religions. Religions of study may include: Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Buddhism, Taoism, Hinduism, Jainism, Sikhism, and The Bahá’i Faith. Students sharpen their academic skills by analyzing texts, and by conducting their own scholarly research. Beyond traditional academic activities, students participate in experiential learning through hands-on activities, such as guided meditation and Yoga. This course will include visits to and from members of different faith communities.
This 1 year course can fulfill the group 3 (social studies) requirement for IB diploma candidates. Both 11th and 12 grade IB World Religion students will take the IB WR exam in May.
*Prerequisites: World History; students are encouraged to have already completed US History or AP US History.
Grades: 11&12
Full Year ~ Course Number: 1998
IB psychology is an introduction to the scientific study of human behavior and mental processes. Students will examine major concepts in psychology and their applications through the different approaches to understanding behavior: the biological, cognitive and sociocultural approaches. Students will study and critically evaluate the concepts, content, and research that have developed the understanding in these fields, and consider the practical applications in different contexts. The contribution and the interaction of the psychological concepts and content is understood through the four contexts in the course, focusing on areas of applied psychology: with a focus on human development, and exploration of health and well-being, human relationships, and learning and cognition.