The WMHS Required Sequence of Study in History
World History US History 1 US History 11
In grade 9, students transition to high school–level history courses that deepen their understanding of historical events, themes, and analytical skills. As they move through the program, students in all grades have opportunities to enroll in increasingly rigorous courses, including Honors and Advanced Placement offerings.
In our history classrooms, students develop skills in historical thinking, including reading and analyzing primary and secondary sources, writing evidence-based arguments, and engaging in discussion and debate. Students also gain a broader understanding of cultures, societies, and global connections as they examine the past and its impact on the present.
~ Elective Opportunities ~
AP Psychology
Grades 10 - 12
This course is designed to prepare students for the Advanced Placement Exam in Psychology. Students are introduced to the scientific study of human behavior and mental processes. The methods psychologists use in their science and practice are examined and the impact of scientific studies are discussed. All Advanced Placement courses are taught at the collegiate level. In order to be successful in this course, students must have advanced proficient literacy and critical thinking skills.
NEW! Sociology
Grades 9-12
Did you ever wonder why people act and interact the way they do? Why do cultures and societies vary vary from place to place and change throughout history? In this course, students will examine core sociological concepts such as culture, socialization, social groups, inequality, race and ethnicity, gender, family structures, education, government, and the role of media. This elective is ideal for students interested in social justice, psychology, history, law, public policy, or gaining insight into the social dynamics that shape the world around them
Grades 9 - 12
This college-level course, engages students in a non-partisan exploration of the US government's development, structure, political behavior and foundational documents. Critical thinking, analysis, argumentation and the examination of primary and secondary sources foster a deep understanding of our political culture. Students will write a series of essays, position papers, and research papers. All Advanced Placement courses are taught at the collegiate level. In order to be successful in this course, students must have advanced proficient literacy and critical thinking skills.
World & National Affairs
Grades 10-12
This course focuses on the contemporary world while examining the historical roots of modern issues and problems. Economic, social, political, military, and diplomatic conditions in both developed and developing countries are studied. The role of the United States in an increasingly interdependent and integrated global community is explored. The approach is selective and thematic, not encyclopedic, and extensively utilizes periodicals.
AP World History
Grades 9 - 12
This course is designed to prepare students for the Advanced Placement Exam in World History. The AP World History course content is structured around the investigation of six historical periods of world history from approximately 8000 B.C.E. to the present both chronologically and thematically. It is geared to students with a strong academic background, an ability to work independently, excellent analytical reading comprehension and advanced-proficient writing skills. All Advanced courses are taught on the collegiate level.
Grades 10 * - 12
This course will provide students with an introduction to Genocide studies. In addition to examining the historical foundations of various genocides, students will identify and analyze theories about human nature, understand that genocide is a consequence of prejudice and discrimination, study the moral dilemmas that humans have faced in the past and present, and investigate the attempts at resistance, intervention, and rescue. *This course is open to students in grades 11 and 12; students in grade 10 may take this course with parental approval and teacher recommendation.
Women's Studies ~ The Fight for Equality
Grades 9-12
How have the rights and roles of women changes? What and who caused the societal advancement of women through American History? Exploration and discussion of the status of women in a more global perspective will also be woven into the course content. The course will identify individuals who have contributed to changing women’s status throughout
Intro to Behavioral Sciences
Grades 10 - 12
This course introduces the basic concepts, generalizations and methodologies of psychology, sociology and anthropology. This is a survey course designed to provide students with an overview of the underlying principles in the vast and diverse fields within the behavioral sciences. This is a college preparatory level course in which the content deals with both theoretical and mature matter. This elective is open to all students in grades 10-12. Due to the mature content of this course, students in grade 10 may take this course with parental approval and teacher recommendation.
SOCIAL JUSTICE: Learning From the Past, Empowering the Future
Grades 9-12
How have racism, classism, sexism and prejudice created barriers to the realization of a more equal and just society throughout history? Why? Who has influenced change? How do we move forward? Students will explore and analyze social justice issues, learn how to recognize social injustice, understand the need to protect the dignity and rights of people, and propose positive action for social change.
Criminal Justice & Law in American Society
Grades 9-12
This one-semester course is designed to acquaint students with major concepts and issues in civil, criminal and constitutional law. Topics such as judicial review, torts, juvenile rights and constitutional rights will be discussed. Lectures, discussions, role playing and court simulations will be among the instructional techniques employed during the course.