Academics
Courses | History
All courses meet four periods a week for 4 points credit per term. Unless otherwise noted, all courses are college prep weight. 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) U.S. 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.
Girls History Courses |
Boys History Courses |
| Ancient History – Grade 9† | Ancient History – Grade 9† |
| A study of the origins of man and the beginnings of civilization. Emphasis is placed on the Near Eastern, Greek, and Roman cultures which have formed the basis of Western Civilization. Students learn about these cultures through readings from a variety of sources, including Ancient and Medieval Worlds, and through class discussions. A large portion of the second and third trimester is invested in writing research papers. The development of religion in the various cultures is examined from both a New Church and secular point of view. | 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. This is both a scholarly and moralistic endeavor. As a result, these areas will be examined from both a New Church and secular point of view. Subjects that bear a strong relevance to the formation of today’s society will be emphasized. |
| European History – Grade 10† | European History – Grade 10† |
| 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. | 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). 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. |
| U.S. History – Grade 11† | U.S. History – Grade 11† |
| Students of American History will improve their skills in analytical reading and critical thinking. Using primary and secondary sources, students will develop informed opinions and learn how to share their discoveries with others orally and in writing. Throughout the course we will focus on two questions: “How have the actions of groups and individuals shaped American history and culture?” and “What does it mean to be a citizen of the United States?” In answering these questions particular emphasis will be placed on the role of women. This year an Honors option will be offered within the American History course. Honors students will be responsible for more advanced readings and a deeper level of source analysis along with increased project requirements. Prerequisite for Honors American History: Prior year history grades of at least 85% and recommendation of previous instructor. | 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 purpose of study is not only to build the student's individual perspective, but also to improve study skills, problem solving skills, as well as writing skills. A special emphasis will be placed upon moral questions that arise throughout the course. An Honors American History option is available, honors students are strongly encouraged to take the AP US History test in the spring. |
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| Civics – Grades 11 and 12 |
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| An exploration of how the principles of Government, Economics and History explain political and world events. Students will be encouraged to examine current events objectively by applying the skills of research and analysis involved in the study of Political Science. Subject matter is alternated so that the course can be repeated senior year. | |
| World Cultures – Grades 11 and 12 | |
| A study of the non-Western world, World Cultures focuses on those areas in which Christianity does not prevail. The course centers around a study of the Middle East, China and Africa. Each region is examined in terms of history, geography as well as contemporary issues. | |
| †Required. |
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