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"The government of the Lord … on earth is His Providence [which] looks in everything that it does to what is infinite and eternal." (DP 47)

"There is no text without context." (Wise saying)

All courses meet five periods a week for two quarters. Unless otherwise noted, all courses are Weight A. While not officially designated as such, the courses offered by the department will, with help from the instructor, prepare students to take the Advanced Placement (AP) History test. Students should contact the department head and course teacher at the beginning of the course if interested in taking the AP test. The senior elective courses listed below are offered on a rotating basis, determined by staffing and student interest. Assignments may be required to be word processed.

Grade 9: Ancient History. A study of the origins of man and the beginnings of civilization. Although Indian and Chinese civilizations will be discussed, emphasis will be placed on the Near Eastern, Greek, and Roman cultures which have formed the basis of Western Civilization. The development of religion in these areas will be examined from both a New Church and secular point of view.

Grade 10: Medieval History. The history of Christian Europe is important because it chronicles the span of the Christian Church, and explains the origin and growth of European culture that has become dominant worldwide. The first half of the course deals with the rise and growth of Christendom; the second with the crises and divisions which necessitated the establishment of a New Church. Topics include the religion, art, politics, geography, economics, and daily life of Europe as it moved through a period of incubation (1st through 8th centuries), a period of idealism (9th through 12th centuries), an age of upheaval and change (13th through 15th centuries), and an age of reformation and renaissance (15th through 18th centuries). Emphasis is placed on the study of female leaders of note and feminine contributions within each of these subject areas. Course work includes readings both in and out of our textbook, video, lecture, discussion and group work including a variety of projects designed to encourage students to use both their imagination and creativity in analyzing historical data.

Grade 11: American History. A study of American History from the Pre-Columbian period to the present. Emphasis will be placed on the important turning points in United States history as well as the political, economic and social development of the country. The continuing influence of the past on the present shall be examined. Special projects with outside research and writing will be required. An A.P. American History (Honors) option is available.

SOCIAL STUDIES ELECTIVES

Unless otherwise noted, all courses meet five times a week for one quarter and are Weight A.

A.P. American History. An in-depth study of American history from the Pre-Columbian Era to the present leading to the taking of the A.P. exam in May. In order to be eligible for the course students must have completed a regular U.S. History course and to have demonstrated interest as well as ability in history. The course presupposes a firm grounding in the factual aspect of the subject and will emphasize a more sophisticated study of the major events in U.S. history. Extensive outside reading and research will be required. Admission by application, recommendation and acceptance only. Weight C. (Not offered 2006-2007).

A.P. Modern European History. From the Age of Reason through 20th century Europe. The course will focus on the rise of the modern nation state and the attendant political philosophies; the changes brought about by the Industrial Revolution. Of particular interest will be the development of European life and institutions during Swedenborg’s time and influences of his work afterwards. The second half will have particular emphasis on the effects of the World Wars and the Cold War. It will include an examination of the rise and development of totalitarian states as well as a study of contemporary problems. As extensive reading and writing will be expected, this course is recommended for college bound students. Weight C. (Not offered 2006-2007).

Political Science. A study of current issues in the news, and the governmental principles underlying them.  The text will be the United States constitution, handouts, and web sources.  Students will be expected to develop expertise in a chosen topic of current interest, using web and other sources. (Not offered 2006-2007)

Economics. An introduction macro, micro and personal finances concepts.  Class notes, Internet sources, outside readings, as well as stock market and business simulations will be used to provide a basic understanding of economics and finance, and to prepare the student for college study.

Asian Concepts. A brief survey of some non-Western cultures, including those of the Middle East, India and the Pacific Rim. Emphasis will be placed on the effects of religions, philosophies on art and literature, and life patterns. (Not offered 2006-2007).

World Cultures. A study of the non-Western world, focusing on those areas in which Christianity does not prevail.  The course will center around a study of the Middle East, China and Africa.

Historical Analysis. This course focuses on developing an in-depth understanding of “Justice.”  The course covers the topic by looking at justice as an economic, political, and social phenomena, one closely allied to certain spiritual truths.  Specific topics will include the Death Penalty, the Nuremburg Trials, the concept of a welfare state, as well as other contemporary events.

Local History and Church History. This course will examine the history of Bryn Athyn and the surrounding areas, especially Huntingdon Valley and the Pennypack Watershed. Many different aspects of local history will be studied from the role of the Delaware Indians and their burial mounds to the Underground Railroad. There will be guest lecturers, field trips, archival research and an archeological dig. A history of the New Church with an emphasis on the development of the General Church, its various societies, organizations and leaders will also be a major part of this class. There is a $25.00 lab fee due on the first day of class. (Not offered 2006-2007).