Social Studies
World Cultures 9
Designed for 9th grade students, this course covers current and historical issues involving world cultures. The Middle East, Africa, East Asia and South Asia are discussed. Units of instruction include: an introduction to geography, population, food, transportation, economics, human resources, conflict, cooperation and the environment. Students study these topics utilizing a variety of materials and activities. Please note: Part time students from specified school districts may also take this course.
World Cultures Honors 9
This is an accelerated course of study with an in-depth development of the topics listed in the World Cultures course listed above.
U.S. History 10
United States History is a survey course beginning with the exploration and settlement of America and ending with contemporary American society. Emphasis is placed on important economic, political, and social trends in American society since the Civil War. Students work on social science skills of map, chart and graph reading and interpreting. Current events are incorporated into the course to show the relationship between historical events and present day situations. This course is presently offered as a required course for 10th grade students.
Honors U.S. History 10
Advanced United States History is a survey course that investigates the roles and responsibilities of citizens throughout American history. This course provides students with a breadth and depth of the knowledge regarding their own history. Beyond this, students are expected to be actively engaged in evaluating their roles as citizens and the rights and responsibilities of all citizens living in a democracy.
Please note: This course is offered based on student interest and staff availability. When offered, this course is open to 10th grade students who have obtained a grade of “B” or better in their previous social studies and English classes. This course takes the place of the standard U.S. history course.
Western Civilization 10
Western Civilization is a survey course in European history from the study of ancient Greece and Rome to the modern era. The purpose of the course is to foster an understanding of European historical developments, both positive and negative, that helped shape the modern world. This is achieved through an emphasis on relating the past to the present. Students have the opportunity to broaden their perspective on history by completing assignments that encourage critical thinking on the themes and patterns that bring about changes in history. (Please note: This course is provided for specified school districts.)
American Government 11
This course is designed for 11th grade students and introduces citizenship skills. Students are expected to develop and utilize analytical thinking skills as they create and discuss solutions to contemporary social problems. Units of instruction include: a review of the historical background of American government; civil rights and responsibilities; the democratic process; the legislative process; the executive branch; the courts and the administration of justice; and, Pennsylvania state government. This course satisfies the Pennsylvania Department of Education graduation requirement for an American government course.
American Government 11 Honors
This is an accelerated course of study for 11th graders. The course consists of an in-depth study of the topics covered in American Government 11 and includes advanced writing projects.Prerequisite: A or B in 10th grade Social Studies and English classes as well as teacher/counselor recommendation.
Career Education and Work 12
This semester block course helps students to develop self-understanding and to cope with the demands of daily living as they relate to preparation for the world of work. Units of instruction include: entering the world of work, and personal and consumer responsibilities. Students are presented a variety of real life topics through various instructional methods, materials and activities. This course satisfies a Pennsylvania Department of Education graduation requirement for a social studies course.
