Social Studies Department Course Descriptions
World History
World History is a freshman/sophomore level class. It is a survey of the history and development of world civilizations from antiquity through the 20th century. In addition, students will be introduced to political and physical geography and the role geography plays in the development of civilizations.
Advanced Placement World History: Modern
This is a college level course for the student who wishes an in-depth study of modern World History. Critical reading and writing techniques are emphasized. Students will study the cultural, economic, political, and social developments that have shaped the world from c. 1200 CE to the present. Students will analyze texts, visual sources, and other historical evidence and write essays expressing historical arguments.
Prerequisites: GPA, freshman or sophomores. Fulfills 9th or 10th grade history requirement.
U.S. History
A full year course covering the background, experience, political thought, and development of the American people. Stressed are critical reading, insights, and skills which are building blocks to success both in high school and college.
Prerequisite: junior
Advanced Placement U.S. History
This is a college level course for the student who wishes an in-depth study of American history. Critical reading and writing techniques are emphasized. The student has an opportunity to delve deeply into the American background in an attempt to gain a much greater evaluation of the American experience. Primary sources in history, literature, and society are utilized.
Prerequisites: History Department approval, juniors only. Fulfills junior history requirement.
Senior History Electives
Current Issues/American Government & Civics
Modern American History through Sports and Culture
Age of Genocide
The Modern American Presidency
Social Studies Electives
Psychology (semester elective)
Psychology 101 (College in the High School - Gonzaga University) Prerequisites: GPA
Psychology is a survey course designed for students who would like to explore human nature from a combined cultural-biological viewpoint. Basic terms, concepts, and principles of psychology are introduced as well as contradicting viewpoints as to how these basic factors can be interpreted. Topics such as emotion, experience, meaning, perception, learning, behavior, personality, and self-concept are reviewed through discussion, lecture, introspection, journal writing, observation, case studies, handouts, a basic text, movies, and field projects
AP Macroeconomics
Explore the principles of economics that apply to an economic system as a whole. Students will use graphs, charts, and data to analyze, describe, and explain economic concepts.
Prerequisites: GPA; junior or senior
Social Studies Department Graduation Requirements
3 years required for graduation. One year must be World History and one year must be United States History. Senior year allows for students to select elective courses.
Course Sequence:
- World History-- 9th or 10th grade
- AP World History-- 9th or 10th grade
- United States History--11th grade
- AP U.S. History--11th grade
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Current Issues/American Government & Civics--12th grade (WA State requirement
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Modern American History Through Sports & Culture--11th or 12th grade
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Age of Genocide--11th or 12th grade
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The Modern American Presidency--11th or 12th grade