Social Studies Department

Modern World History
Humanities
Course Code: 571
Credits: 1.0
Grade: 9
Weight: General
Schools: C, K, W, WAMS, WCA, E, SS
This course will focus on the 19th and 20th century beginning with the philosophical roots of economic and political conflict of the late 18th century. This will explore the impact of democratic and industrial revolutions, the wars that changed empires and the European dominance of the world, as well as, the ideas that lead to independence movements and the effects of global interdependence. Students in this course will continue to develop their historical thinking skills from previous years by emphasizing such skill areas as argumentative writing, oral communication, and evaluation of primary and secondary sources, map analysis, research techniques, and critical thinking dispositions.

Modern World History Honors
Humanities
Course Code: 570
Credits: 1.0
Grade: 9
Weight: Honors
Schools: C, K, W, WAMS, WCA
This course will focus on the 19th and 20th century beginning with the philosophical roots of economic and political conflict of the late 18th century. This will explore the impact of democratic and industrial revolutions, the wars that changed empires and the European dominance of the world, as well as, the ideas that lead to independence movements and the effects of global interdependence. Students in this course will continue to develop their historical thinking skills from previous years by emphasizing such skill areas as argumentative writing, oral communication, and evaluation of primary and secondary sources, map analysis, research techniques, and critical thinking dispositions. Honors classes work at a more rigorous pace and entail more independent work. 

Modern World History ATOMS/SOAR
Humanities
Course Code: 570K
Credits: 1.0
Grade: 9
Weight: ACE/ATOMS/SOAR
Schools: C, K, W
This course will focus on the 19th and 20th century beginning with the philosophical roots of economic and political conflict of the late 18th century. This will explore the impact of democratic and industrial revolutions, the wars that changed empires and the European dominance of the world, as well as, the ideas that lead to independence movements and the effects of global interdependence. Students in this course will continue to develop their historical thinking skills from previous years by emphasizing such skill areas as argumentative writing, oral communication, and evaluation of primary and secondary sources, map analysis, research techniques, and critical thinking dispositions.  ATOMS/SOAR classes work at a more rigorous pace and entail more independent work. 

Civics*
Humanities
Course Code: 531
Credits: 0.5
Grade: 10
Weight: General
Schools: C, K, W, WAMS, WCA, E, SS
This course will cover the development of democracy within the context of the United States government and the role of citizens within that government. It will prepare students to participate in their political responsibilities as thoughtful and informed citizens. Civics provides a basis for understanding the rights and responsibilities for being an American citizen and a framework for competent and responsible participation within society.  Emphasis is placed on the historical development of government and political systems, and the importance of the rule of law; the United States Constitution; Federal, State and local government structure; and the rights and responsibilities of citizenship. Students will actively investigate local, state and national issues, actively negotiate discussions, and develop informed arguments using a variety of writing forms.  *Pairs with 541

US History II*
Humanities
Course Code: 541
Credits: 0.5
Grade: 10
Weight: General
Schools: C, K, W, WAMS, WCA, E, SS
This course will take an in-depth look at the domestic and foreign policies that divided the United States leading it from Civil War to a newly industrialized nation. Students will analyze primary and secondary sources in order to interpret historical viewpoints, research important people and events in an effort to determine their significance, and evaluate the government's failures and success based on legislation and executive orders from the time. *Pairs with 531.

Civics Honors*
Humanities
Course Code: 530
Credits: 0.5
Grade: 10
Weight: Honors
Schools: C, K, W, WAMS, WCA
This course will cover the development of democracy within the context of the United States government and the role of citizens within that government. It will prepare students to participate in their political responsibilities as thoughtful and informed citizens. Civics provides a basis for understanding the rights and responsibilities for being an American citizen and a framework for competent and responsible participation within society.  Emphasis is placed on the historical development of government and political systems, and the importance of the rule of law; the United States Constitution; Federal, State and local government structure; and the rights and responsibilities of citizenship. Students will actively investigate local, state and national issues, actively negotiate discussions, and develop informed arguments using a variety of writing forms.  Honors classes work at a more rigorous pace and entail more independent work.  *Pairs with 540

US History II Honors*
Humanities
Course Code: 540
Credits: 0.5
Grade: 10
Weight:  Honors
Schools: C, K, W, WAMS, WCA
This course will take an in-depth look at the domestic and foreign policies that divided the United States leading it from Civil War to a newly industrialized nation. Students will analyze primary and secondary sources in order to interpret historical viewpoints, research important people and events in an effort to determine their significance, and evaluate the government's failures and success based on legislation and executive orders from the time. Honors classes work at a more rigorous pace and entail more independent work.  *Pairs with 530.

Civics ATOMS/SOAR*
Humanities
Course Code: 530K
Credits: 0.5
Grade: 10
Weight: ATOMS/SOAR
Schools: K, W
This course will cover the development of democracy within the context of the United States government and the role of citizens within that government. It will prepare students to participate in their political responsibilities as thoughtful and informed citizens. Civics provides a basis for understanding the rights and responsibilities for being an American citizen and a framework for competent and responsible participation within society.  Emphasis is placed on the historical development of government and political systems, and the importance of the rule of law; the United States Constitution; Federal, State and local government structure; and the rights and responsibilities of citizenship. Students will actively investigate local, state and national issues, actively negotiate discussions, and develop informed arguments using a variety of writing forms.  ATOMS/SOAR classes work at a more rigorous pace and entail more independent work.  *Pairs with 540K

US History II ATOMS/SOAR
Humanities
Course Code: 540 K
Credits: 0.5
Grade: 10
Weight:  ATOMS/SOAR
Schools: K, W
This course will take an in-depth look at the domestic and foreign policies that divided the United States leading it from Civil War to a newly industrialized nation. Students will analyze primary and secondary sources in order to interpret historical viewpoints, research important people and events in an effort to determine their significance, and evaluate the government's failures and success based on legislation and executive orders from the time. ATOMS/SOAR classes work at a more rigorous pace and entail more independent work. *Pairs with 531K.

US History III
Humanities
Course Code: 551
Credits: 1.0
Grade: 11
Weight: General
Schools: C, K, W, WAMS, WCA, E, SS
U.S. History III is a course for all juniors. The course begins with the American Progressive Era and leads up to the present day. Topics will cover the social, cultural, political, military, and economic transformations of nineteenth century America. Typical course activities include analyzing primary and secondary sources, class debates, research into historical events of significance, and creation of argumentative writings.

US History III Honors
Humanities
Course Code: 550
Credits: 1.0
Grade: 11
Weight: Honors
Schools: C, K, W, WAMS, WCA
U.S. History III is a course for all juniors. The course begins with the American Progressive Era and leads up to the present day. Topics will cover the social, cultural, political, military, and economic transformations of nineteenth century America. Typical course activities include analyzing primary and secondary sources, class debates, research into historical events of significance, and creation of argumentative writings.

U.S. History: Advanced Placement
Humanities
Course Code: 550A
Credits: 1.0
Grade: 11-12
Weight: AP/Post Secondary
Schools: K, W, WAMS, WCA
In AP U.S. History, students investigate significant events, individuals, developments, and processes in nine historical periods from approximately 1491 to the present. Students develop and use the same skills 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.  The course also  provides eight themes that students explore throughout the course in order to make connections, among historical developments in different times and places:  American and national identity; work, exchange, and technology; geography and the environment; migration and settlement; politics and power; America in the world; American and regional culture; and social structures.

Seminar in American Studies: UCONN
Humanities
Course Code: 570A
Credits: 1.0
Grade: 11
Weight: AP/Post Secondary
Schools: K
Seminar in American Studies is a team taught, full year course that takes an interdisciplinary approach to the study of American culture. The course rests on two main pillars, the study of United States History and American Literature. The course also integrates art, architecture, and music to help the student develop a total picture of the American Experience. The course offers a variety of teaching strategies and learning activities. Students in Seminar in American Studies are assigned a double class period. After successful completion of the course, the student will have fulfilled the United States History requirement and the junior year American Literature requirement.  In addition, students electing the course are eligible to receive credit in history under the UCONN Co-Op program if all requirements are met.

Comparative Government
Humanities
Course Code: 504
Credits: 0.5
Grade: 11-12
Weight: General
Schools: C, K, W, SS, E
Emphasis is placed on the structure of the local, state and national governments, the goals of democratic society, and the prime role of the good citizen in an era of challenge. To appreciate the government of the United States, comparisons are made with selected major political systems throughout the world.

Comparative Government and Politics: Advanced Placement
Humanities
Course Code: 591A
Credits: 1.0
Grade: 11-12
Weight: AP / Post Secondary
Schools: K
This course introduces students to fundamental concepts used by political scientists to study the processes and outcomes of politics in a variety of country settings. The course aims to illustrate the rich diversity of political life, to show available institutional alternatives, to explain differences in processes and policy outcomes, and to communicate to students the importance of global political and economic changes. In addition to covering the major concepts that are used to organize and interpret what we know about political phenomena and relationships, the course covers six specific countries and their governments. College credit can be earned by students who successfully pass the Advanced Placement Examination which they are required to take in May. 

US Government and Politics: Advanced Placement
Humanities
Course Code: 530A
Credits: 1.0
Grade: 10-12
Weight: AP/Post Secondary
Schools: K, WAMS, WCA
This course provides an analytical perspective on government and politics in the United States. This course 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. In addition to providing an analytical perspective on government in the United States, this course focuses on the six major categories assessed on the U.S. Government and Politics’ AP exam. These categories include: The Constitutional Underpinnings of United States Government, Political Beliefs and Behaviors, Political Parties, Interest Groups and Mass Media, Institutions of National Government: The Congress, the Presidency, the Bureaucracy, and the Federal Courts, Public Policy and Civil Rights and Civil 46 Liberties. College credit can be earned by students who successfully pass the Advanced Placement Examination which they are required to take in May.

Law & Society
Humanities
Course Code: 525
Credits: 0.5
Grade: 11-12
Weight: General
Schools: C, K, W, WAMS, WCA, SS, E
This course stresses the importance of law in our society to better enable the student to function as a citizen. An overview of the Anglo-American Legal System, the development and growth of the U. S. Constitution, and the salient features of American Criminal and Civil Laws are presented in this course. 

Psychology
Humanities
Course Code: 546
Credits: 0.5
Grade: 12
Weight: General
Schools: C, K, W, WAMS,  WCA, SS, E
This course is designed to develop student interest in human behavioral patterns by learning fundamentals of psychological study. Further development of concentrated study will include the understanding of personality traits, the role of heredity and environment and their consequences on the intelligent world community. 

Psychology: Advanced Placement
Humanities
Course Code: 544A
Credits: 1.0
Grade: 10-12
Weight: AP/Post Secondary
Schools: C, K, W, WAMS, WCA
The AP Psychology course is designed to introduce students to the systematic and scientific study of the behavior and mental processes of human beings and other animals. Students are exposed to the psychological facts, principles, and phenomena associated with each of the major subfields within psychology. They also learn about the ethics and methods psychologists use in their science and practice.  College credits (3) are awarded to students who successfully pass the Advanced Placement Examination which they are required to take in May.

Sociology
Humanities
Course Code: 545
Credits: 0.5
Grade: 12
Weight: General
Schools: C, K, W, WAMS, WCA, SS, E
This course provides insights into human relations by incorporating characteristics that are common to groups, races, and cultures. Emphasis is on the problems approach and attempts are made to reduce narrow-mindedness and prejudice by promoting better understanding of inter-group relations.

Introduction to Sociology: UCONN
Humanities
Course Code: 545U
Credits: 1.0
Grade: 11-12
Weight: AP/Post Secondary
Schools: C
This course provides insights into human relations by incorporating characteristics that are common to groups, races, and cultures. Emphasis is on the problems approach and attempts are made to reduce narrow-mindedness and prejudice by promoting better understanding of inter-group relations.  In addition, students electing the course are eligible to receive credit in history under the UCONN Co-Op program if all requirements are met.  Though this course is only a half year, students earn 3 UCONN credits and therefore will earn a full high school credit for successful completion of the course.

Modern World History: Advanced Placement
Humanities
Course Code: 570A
Credits: 1.0
Grade: 9-12
Weight: AP/Post Secondary
Schools: WAMS, WCA
The AP Modern European History course deals with the facts, ideas, events and personalities which have shaped Europe's history from approximately 1450 to the present. The journey through Europe's rich and diverse history takes the student from the tragedy of the Bubonic plague at the end of the Medieval Period to the establishment of contemporary Europe. Units of study will include the Renaissance and Reformation, the age of Absolutism, the Scientific Revolution and the Enlightenment, the French Revolution and Napoleonic Europe, the rise of political ideologies, the Revolutions of 1848 leading to the emergence of nation states, the Age of Industrial and International expansion, the World Wars, the Cold War, and current issues.  College credits (3) are awarded to students who successfully pass the Advanced Placement Examination which they are required to take in May. 

European History: Advanced Placement
Humanities
Course Code: 580A
Credits: 1.0
Grade: 10-12
Weight: AP/Post Secondary
Schools: K, WAMS
The study of European history since 1450 introduces students to cultural, economic, political, and social developments that played a fundamental role in shaping the world in which they live. Without this knowledge, we would lack the context for understanding the development of contemporary institutions, the role of continuity and change in present-day society and politics, and the evolution of current forms of artistic expression and intellectual discourse. In addition to providing a basic narrative of events and movements, the goals of the AP program in 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. College credits (3) are awarded to students who successfully pass the Advanced Placement Examination which they are required to take in May.

Modern Western Traditions: UCONN
Humanities
Course Code: 501U
Credits: 1.0 (1/2 year course)
Grade: 12
Weight: AP/Post Secondary
Schools: WCA (Spring Only)
The study of European history since 1450 introduces students to cultural, economic, political, and social developments that played a fundamental role in shaping the world in which they live. Without this knowledge, we would lack the context for understanding the development of contemporary institutions, the role of continuity and change in present-day society and politics, and the evolution of current forms of artistic expression and intellectual discourse. In addition to providing a basic narrative of events and movements, the goals of the AP program in 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. In addition, students electing the course are eligible to receive credit in history under the UCONN Co-Op program if all requirements are met.  Though this course is only a half year, students earn 3 UCONN credits and therefore will earn a full high school credit for successful completion of the course.

African American / Black and Puerto Rican /
Latino Studies
Humanities
Course Code: 589
Credits: 1.0
Grade: 11/12
Weight: General
Schools: C, K, W, WAMS, WCA,  E, SS
The course is an opportunity for students to explore accomplishments, struggles, intersections, perspectives, and collaborations of African American/Black and Puerto Rican/Latino people in the U.S.  Students will examine how historical movements, legislation, and wars affected the citizenship rights of these groups and how they, both separately and together, worked to build U.S. cultural and economic wealth and create more just societies in local, national, and international contexts.  Coursework will provide students with tools to identify historic and contemporary tensions around race and difference; map economic and racial disparities over time; strengthen their own identity development; and address bias in their communities.

Introduction to Human Rights: UCONN
Humanities
Course Code: 502U
Credits: 1.0 (1/2 year)
Grade: 12
Weight: AP/Post Secondary
Schools: C (Fall Only)
Recommendation In recent years, “human rights” has become among the most powerful ways of thinking about and fighting for a more just world. This course provides an introduction to the interdisciplinary study of human rights as a concept, a set of laws and institutions, and as a set of political and cultural practices. We begin by considering definitions, historical and institutional foundations of human rights. We then focus on several particular human rights issues, groups of human rights and human rights of certain groups of people. Along the way, we will take different disciplinary approaches – legal, philosophical, literary, etc. – to our subject. By the end of the class, we will have developed an understanding of the institutions and processes related to human rights and familiarity with key intellectual debates as well as differing policy and advocacy strategies. . In addition, students electing the course are eligible to receive credit in history under the UCONN Co-Op program if all requirements are met.  Must take with 503U.  Though this course is only a half year, students earn 3 UCONN credits and therefore will earn a full high school credit for successful completion of the course.

Introduction to Genocide Studies: UCONN
Humanities
Course Code: 503U
Credits: 1.0 (1/2 year)
Grade: 12
Weight: AP/Post Secondary
Schools: C (Spring Only)
Introduction to Genocide Studies is an interdisciplinary will look at the origins of Genocide and various Genocides around the world through a critical, interdisciplinary and practical and applied approaches. Students will look at ways to address the different viewpoints of power along with legal and political definitions. Different approaches will be reflected upon when looking through the eyes and thoughts of those who have tried to understand genocide without taking the act for granted. Finally, the course is fundamentally anti-genocidal in its purpose, and students will have the opportunity to contribute to and/or develop practical efforts commemorate, advocate against, or prevent the perpetration of genocide.  In addition, students electing the course are eligible to receive credit in history under the UCONN Co-Op program if all requirements are met.  Must take with 502U.  Though this course is only a half year, students earn 3 UCONN credits and therefore will earn a full high school credit for successful completion of the course.

Western Traditions Before 1500: UCONN
Humanities
Course Code: 500U
Credits: 1.0 (1/2 year course)
Grade: 12
Weight: AP/Post Secondary
Schools: WCA (Fall Only)
The history of the Ancient Mediterranean and Near East and Medieval Europe, from the era of the Agricultural Revolution c. 10,000 BCE to c. 1500 CE.  As an introductory history course, this course is designed to develop not only specific knowledge of history of the period in question, but also to refine skills in dealing with history and to impart a recognition that every member of a society (including yourself) helps to ‘make’ history.  In addition, students shall discover that there is not one, but a multitude of roots to western culture, from the everyday life of peasant women to powerful thinkers, politicians and aristocrats of the times.   In addition, students electing the course are eligible to receive credit in history under the UCONN Co-Op program if all requirements are met.  Though this course is only a half year, students earn 3 UCONN credits and therefore will earn a full high school credit for successful completion of the course.

Contemporary Issues
Humanities
Course Code: 521
Credits: 0.5
Grade: 11-12
Weight: General
Schools: C, K, W, WAMS, WCA, SS, E
Through discussion, this course focuses on the long-range problems of society as well as controversial issues of the day. Opportunity for understanding current affairs is also provided. Students will be encouraged to pursue individual topics of interest. 

Geography
Humanities
Course Code: 505
Credits: 0.5
Grade: 10-12
Weight: General
Schools: C, K, W,  SS, E
Geography introduces students to the environmental factors that have so greatly influenced man. Studies are made on a regional basis and include a systematic approach to the physical, economic and cultural changes which help man satisfy his needs.