Social Studies
It is strongly recommended that students enroll in the courses located in the provided table before choosing additional Social Studies electives. All freshman, sophomores, juniors, and seniors are encouraged to consider taking courses from the electives offered and to consult with teachers regarding specific course content and requirements.
If a student wishes to move from an academic level course to an honors or AP level course, that student must finish the previous year’s Social Studies course with a final average of an A. In addition, a student must obtain his/her Social Studies teacher’s recommendation.
Social Studies Department Program of Studies 2024-2025
*All recommended courses are bolded
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Grade
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Course Offerings
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7
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Academic 7th Grade Early American History: Founding of a Nation
or
Advanced 7th Grade Early American History: Founding of a Nation
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8
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Academic 8th Grade American History: Growth of the Republic
Or
Advanced 8th Grade American History: Growth of the Republic
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9
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Academic America and the Modern World
or
Honors America and the Modern World
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Electives:
Current Global Issues, Military History, Academic Psychology
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10
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Academic World History
or
Honors World History
or
AP World History: Modern
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Electives:
Current Global Issues, Military History, AP United States History, AP European History
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11
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Academic Civics and Government
or
Honors Civics and Government
or
AP United States Government & Politics
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Electives:
Current Global Issues, Military History, Academic Psychology, Criminology,
AP United States History, AP European History, AP Psychology, AP Micro and Macro Economics, Honors Economics, Financial Literacy, AP World History: Modern
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12
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One Full Year Social Studies Elective
or
Two Half Year Social Studies Electives
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Electives:
Current Global Issues, Military History, Academic Psychology, Criminology,
AP United States History, AP European History, AP Psychology,
AP Micro and Macro Economics, Honors Economics, Financial Literacy, AP World History: Modern
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470 ACADEMIC 7th GRADE EARLY AMERICAN HISTORY: FOUNDING OF A NATION
471 ADVANCED 7th GRADE EARLY AMERICAN HISTORY: FOUNDING OF A NATION
6 Periods/Cycle/All-Year
This course will investigate the major issues and events that affected the development of the United States from the Revolutionary Era to the beginning of sectionalism and the start of the Civil War. Throughout the course, parallels are drawn between U.S. history and world events so as to involve the student in a global approach to U.S. history. Four major themes will be addressed: the Revolutionary Era --- examining the events surrounding the American Revolution and the development of our republic; the United States Constitution --- analyzing the basic principles set forth in our government and its impact on American society; the Expanding Republic --- we will assess the effects of technological development and territorial expansion in the first half of the nineteenth century; the Civil War Era --- an in-depth discussion of the relationship between slavery, sectionalism, secession, and ultimately, the beginning of the Civil War. Analysis of primary sources & documents; critical-thinking skills; text-dependent analysis; and writing skills will be modeled and practiced throughout this seventh-grade course.
480 ACADEMIC 8TH GRADE AMERICAN HISTORY: GROWTH OF THE REPUBLIC
481 ADVANCED 8TH GRADE AMERICAN HISTORY: GROWTH OF THE REPUBLIC
6 Periods/Cycle/All-Year
8th grade Growth of the Republic is a survey course that covers the history of the United States from the Crisis of the Union in the mid-1800s through the early 20th century and the Great Depression. The course begins by examining the various issues and beliefs that contributed to the outbreak of the Civil War. In the aftermath of the war, students will examine the approaches to Reconstruction and its effects. The increasing involvement of the United States in the broader world will be analyzed, including the expansion of America during the Age of Imperialism. The second phase of the Industrial Revolution and its impact on the population and US standing in the world will be addressed. As the early 20th century progresses, students will focus on the emergence of the US as a world power in World War I, and look at the aftermath of the war in units on the Roaring Twenties and Great Depression. Throughout the course, the evolution of the American form of democratic government will be analyzed, as will the development of our economic system. The contributions of and challenges to diverse groups within the US population will be examined within each unit. Students will develop research, analysis and communications skills through individual and group assignments and activities.
402 ACADEMIC AMERICA AND THE MODERN WORLD - GRADE 9
1 Credit
6 Periods/Cycle/All Year
Academic America & the Modern World guides students through the United States’ emergence as a modern nation and her new role on the world scene. The course will begin with the global depression of the 1930s and will end with modern current global issues. Topics included in the course will consist of (but not be limited to) US foreign policy and domestic policies, continuities and changes, cultural studies, and various political and economic systems. Areas to be studied will change according to current world conditions; however, the focus of understanding the United States position in the world will be constantly explored. Skills such as reading for understanding, document analysis, writing, and research will be taught and developed.
401 HONORS AMERICA AND THE MODERN WORLD – GRADE 9
1 Credit
6 Periods/Cycle/All Year
Honors America & the Modern World will require students to develop a detailed understanding of how the United States has emerged as a modern nation, her role on the world scene, and the complexities of current global issues. The course will begin with the global depression of the 1930s and will end with the modern day. Topics included in the course will consist of (but not be limited to) US foreign policy, domestic politics, continuities and changes, cultural studies, and comparative political and economic systems. Areas to be studied will change according to current world conditions; however, the focus of understanding the United States position in the world will be constantly explored. Skills such as reading for understanding, document analysis, essay writing, and research will be taught and developed.
415 AP UNITED STATES HISTORY – GRADES 10 - 12
1 Credit
6 Periods/Cycle/All Year
Prerequisites: This course is open to qualified students in tenth, eleventh, and twelfth grades, with selection of students based upon: recommendations from the previous year’s social studies teacher and either a B average or higher in a previous honors class or an A average in an academic level course.
Advanced Placement courses are offered to prepare students for the Advanced Placement examination in May. Students who enroll in AP courses must pay for and take the standardized exam in May according to the College Board schedule. Students who have scored well on the AP exam may get credit and/or a good course placement at schools that participate. For more detailed information about the Advanced Placement Program, please refer to the opening pages of the Program of Studies.
The focus of the AP U.S. History course is to help students develop analytic skills and factual knowledge to deal critically with themes of U.S. History. Although this course encompasses much of the same content as the previous American history courses, a greater emphasis is placed on the use of original source materials as the basis of studying a historical period. Advance reading and writing skills will be required of the students in this course. In addition, this course will investigate several key time periods, including, but not limited to: the Pre-Columbian Civilization, Columbian Exchange, Colonial American and Revolution, Expansion and Manifest Destiny, Antebellum Society and Crisis, Civil War, Reconstruction, Growth of American Industry, Populism and Progressivism, Imperialism/World Power, 1920’s, Great Depression, World War II, Cold War, America at the End of the 20th Century, and post-9/11 America and the world.
This course will require an in-depth research project and papers on particular events in U.S. history. A summer reading and writing assignment may be required of students enrolling in the course. Document-based question tests may be administered in the form of after-school or before-school practice sessions throughout the year.
404 ACADEMIC WORLD HISTORY GRADE 10
1 Credit
6 Periods/Cycle/All Year
This is a survey course covering human history from its origins in Africa to the present day. Major themes addressed in the course include human origins and settlement, the development and impact of language, writing and culture, human migration, the causes and resolution of conflict, and economic and technological development. Students will also analyze differing philosophical and religious belief systems, examine artistic and literary movements, and compare and contrast historic and modern political systems. A constant theme will be the relationship between past events and present-day life. Varied and differentiated projects will be offered throughout the course.
Primary source readings and analysis will be emphasized throughout the course, and students are expected to read textbook chapters. Writing and vocabulary components will be heavily stressed, from simple paragraph summary to DBQ analysis and preparation. Artistic projects and technological implementation will also be prioritized. The ability to work well independently and in small groups is essential to success in the course, as are good written and oral communication skills.
403 HONORS WORLD HISTORY GRADE 10
1 Credit
6 Periods/Cycle/All Year
This is a survey course covering the human history from its origins in Africa to the present day. Major themes addressed in the course include the development of culture, human migration, the causes and resolution of conflict, and economic and technological development. The students will also analyze differing philosophical and religious belief systems, examine artistic and literary movements, and compare and contrast historic and modern political systems. A constant theme will be the relationship between past events and present-day life, often through the use of current events, thesis analysis, and DBQ writing projects.
The text is the primary learning tool, and students are expected to keep up with independent reading schedules in the text. In addition, the reading and analysis of primary sources and utilization of 21st-century learning technology are key elements of the course. The ability to work well independently and in small groups is essential to success in the course, as are good written and oral communication skills.
417 AP WORLD HISTORY: MODERN - GRADES 10 - 12
1 Credit
6 Periods/Cycle/All Year
Prerequisites: Advanced Placement courses are offered to prepare students for the Advanced Placement examination in May. Students who enroll in AP courses must pay for and take the exam. The AP Program is based on the premise that secondary school students can successfully master university-level material. Participating universities and colleges, may grant credit and /or appropriate placement to students who have demonstrated exemplary performance on the AP examination.
Advanced Placement courses are offered to prepare students for the Advanced Placement examination in May. Students who enroll in AP courses must pay for and take the standardized exam in May according to the College Board schedule. Participating universities and colleges may grant credit and/or appropriate course placement to students who have earned a qualifying score on the AP exam. For more detailed information about the Advanced Placement Program, please refer to the opening pages of the Program of Studies.
This full-year course explores the expansive history of the human world. Students will learn many facts, but also the critical thinking skills necessary to analyze historical evidence. Six themes will be used as a frame of reference in the chronological study of our world’s history; these themes are: Interaction between humans and the environment; development and interaction of cultures; state-building, expansion and conflict; creation, expansion, and interaction of economic systems; technology and innovation, and development and transformation of social structures.
An important skill students will acquire in the class is the ability to examine change over time, including the causation of events as well as the major effects of historical developments, the interconnectedness of events over time, and the spatial interactions that occur over time that have geographic, political, cultural, and social significance. It is important for each student to develop the ability to connect the local to the global, and vice versa. Students will learn how to compare developments in different regions and in different time periods as well as contextualize important changes and continuities throughout world history. A summer reading and writing assignment is required of students enrolling in this course.
This course is also offered as a Dual Enrollment course through Reading Area Community College. Students who enroll in a Dual Enrollment course pay the cost per credit to Reading Area Community College. Participating universities and colleges may grant transfer credit to students who earn a qualifying grade for the course. For more detailed information about Dual Enrollment, please refer to the opening pages of the Program of Studies.
405 AP EUROPEAN HISTORY- GRADES 10 - 12
1 Credit
6 Periods/Cycle/All Year
Prerequisites: This course is open to qualified students in 10th - 12th grade, with selection of students based upon recommendations from the previous year’s social studies teacher and either a B average or higher in a previous honors class or an A average in an academic level course.
Advanced Placement courses are offered to prepare students for the Advanced Placement examination in May. Students who enroll in AP courses must pay for and take the standardized exam in May according to the College Board schedule. Participating universities and colleges may grant credit and/or appropriate course placement to students who have earned a qualifying score on the AP exam. For more detailed information about the Advanced Placement Program, please refer to the opening pages of the Program of Studies.
This is an intensive and accelerated history course, covering the major developments and events in western civilization and their impact upon world history from the beginning of the European Renaissance post 1350 through the present day. Equal and substantive analysis is placed upon cultural, social, political and intellectual themes and history. The effect of these events upon the modern world is continually and carefully examined throughout the course, and students are expected to remain informed about current events and news on a regular basis. Major themes in the course include the emergence of national monarchies and nation-states, diplomatic history and geopolitical relations, the evolution of communal and individual rights and obligations, models of economic and political organization, the impact of technological development upon global society and the artistic expression of cultural values and beliefs. The impact and legacy of these topics upon the world at large will be continually assessed and examined throughout the duration of the course.
Advanced reading and writing skills are a major and essential prerequisite in this college-level course. Successful time management and the ability to work independently and cooperatively are also essential. Substantive study time is expected of all students. Considerable emphasis is placed upon the use of primary source materials as the basis for examining an historical period. Weekly readings, research assignments, projects and presentations will provide students the skills to analyze and evaluate the critical themes of European history during this period at the university undergraduate level. There is no summer assignment required for this course.
409 ACADEMIC UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT & CIVICS –
GRADES 11 - 12 1 Credit
6 Periods/Cycle/All Year
The focus of the U.S. Government and Civics course is to help students develop analytic skills and factual knowledge to deal critically with themes of U.S. Government and Civics. Students who successfully complete this course will be able to understand facts, concepts, and theories pertaining to U.S. Government. Students will be able to analyze and interpret basic data relevant to U.S. Government, and express their own opinions on this matter while participating in classroom discussions.
In addition, this course will examine the following topics in U.S. Government and Civics: The Constitution, political beliefs and behaviors, political parties, interest groups, mass media, Congress, the Presidency, the Federal Courts, public policy, civil rights, and civil liberties. In addition, a focus on Pennsylvania state and local governmental functions and responsibilities will be covered in this course.
408 HONORS UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT & CIVICS –
GRADES 11 - 12
1 Credit 6 Periods/Cycle/All Year
The focus of the U.S. Government and Civics course is to help students develop analytic skills and factual knowledge to deal critically with themes of U.S. Government and Civics. Students who successfully complete this course will be able to understand facts, concepts, and theories pertaining to U.S. Government. Students will be able to analyze and interpret basic data relevant to U.S. Government, and express their own opinions on this matter while participating in classroom discussions.
In addition, this course will examine the following topics in U.S. Government and Civics: The Constitution, political beliefs and behaviors, political parties, interest groups, mass media, Congress, the Presidency, the Federal Courts, public policy, civil rights, and civil liberties. In addition, a focus on Pennsylvania state and local governmental functions and responsibilities will be covered in this course.
This course is also offered as a Dual Enrollment course through Reading Area Community College. Students who enroll in a Dual Enrollment course pay the cost per credit to Reading Area Community College. Participating universities and colleges may grant transfer credit to students who earn a qualifying grade for the course. For more detailed information about Dual Enrollment, please refer to the opening pages of the Program of Studies.
416 AP UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS -
GRADES 11 - 12
1 Credit
6 Periods/Cycle/All Year
Prerequisites: This course is open to qualified students in eleventh and twelfth grades with selection of students based upon: recommendations from the previous year’s social studies teacher and either a B average or higher in a previous honors class or an A average in an academic level course.
Advanced Placement courses are offered to prepare students for the Advanced Placement examination in May. Students who enroll in AP courses must pay for and take the standardized exam in May according to the College Board schedule. Participating universities and colleges may grant credit and/or appropriate course placement to students who have earned a qualifying score on the AP exam. For more detailed information about the Advanced Placement Program, please refer to the opening pages of the Program of Studies.
The focus of the AP U.S. Government and Politics course is to help students develop analytic skills and factual knowledge to deal critically with themes of U.S. Government and Politics. Students who successfully complete this course will be able to understand facts, concepts, and theories pertaining to U.S. Government. Students will be able to analyze and interpret basic data relevant to U.S. Government, and express their own opinions on this matter while participating in classroom discussions.
In addition, this course will examine the following topics in U.S. Government and Politics: Constitutional underpinnings, political beliefs and behaviors, political parties, interest groups, mass media, Congress, the Presidency, the Federal Courts, public policy, civil rights, and civil liberties. In addition, a focus on Pennsylvania state and local governmental functions and responsibilities will be covered in this course.
412 FINANCIAL LITERACY– GRADES 11 - 12
.5 Credit
6 Periods/Cycle/Per Semester
The primary emphasis of this course is to prepare our students to be functional members in an economic world by providing practical application to real world economic situations. The course is designed to provide each student with a survey of economic principles and practices, which will serve as a basis for understanding the American economy.
Topics included in this course are basic principles of the free-market system, price determination by supply and demand, the role of labor and business in production, consumerism, investment and financial services, banking, sources and use of credit, insurance options and identify protection. Students will also study the importance of economic growth and stability, and the role of government in the economy. Moderate use of consumer math as well as economic graphs and charts will provide an introduction to each student to some of the tools of analysis frequently used in college economics courses.
410 AP MICRO AND MACROECONOMICS – GRADES 11 - 12
411 HONORS ECONOMICS – GRADES 11 - 12
1.0 Credit
6 Periods/Cycle/Per Semester
Prerequisites: This course is open to qualified students in 11th – 12th grades, with selection of students based upon: recommendations from the previous year’s social studies teacher and either a B average or higher in a previous honors class or an A average in an academic level course.
Advanced Placement courses are offered to prepare students for the Advanced Placement examination in May. Students who enroll in AP courses must pay for and take the standardized exam in May according to the College Board schedule. Participating universities and colleges may grant credit and/or appropriate course placement to students who have earned a qualifying score on the AP exam. For more detailed information about the Advanced Placement Program, please refer to the opening pages of the Program of Studies.
The purpose of the AP/HONORS Microeconomics course (Semester 1) is to give students a thorough understanding of the principles of economics that apply to the functions of individual decision makers, both consumers and producers, within the larger economic system. It places primary emphasis on the nature and functions of product markets, and includes the study of factor markets and the role of government in promoting greater efficiency and equity in the economy.
The purpose of the AP/HONORS Macroeconomics course (Semester 2) is to give students a thorough understanding of principles of economics that apply to an economic system as a whole. The course places particular emphasis on the study of national income and price determination, and also develops students' familiarity with economic performance measures, economic growth, and international economics. The usage of monetary and fiscal policy will be analyzed.
A summer reading and writing assignment is required of students enrolling in this course. In addition, students may be asked to participate periodically in after or before school instructional sessions.
442 ACADEMIC PSYCHOLOGY - GRADES 9 - 12 .5 Credit
6 Periods/Cycle/Per Semester
The psychology course is a fundamental study of the science dealing with behavior. A basic goal of the course is to help students develop self-awareness, self-understanding, and an understanding of others in order that they may recognize the necessity for careful planning in setting realistic life goals. Learning, personality study, mental health, the biology of the brain, and mental illness are some of the major units that are explored.
445 AP PSYCHOLOGY - GRADES 11 - 12 1 Credit
6 Periods/Cycle/All Year
Prerequisites: This course is open to qualified students in 11th – 12th grades, with selection of students based upon: recommendations from two different social studies teachers, one of which must be the previous year’s social studies teacher and either a B average or higher in a previous honors class or an A average in an academic level course.
Advanced Placement courses are offered to prepare students for the Advanced Placement examination in May. Students who enroll in AP courses must pay for and take the standardized exam in May according to the College Board schedule. Participating universities and colleges may grant credit and/or appropriate course placement to students who have earned a qualifying score on the AP exam. For more detailed information about the Advanced Placement Program, please refer to the opening pages of the Program of Studies.
Designed for students who wish to study human behavior and mental processes at a level that approximates an introductory college course, AP Psychology stresses a scientific approach to the study of psychology. The course exposes students to a wide range of concepts, research findings, and psychological theories while emphasizing application so the students can see how these relate to their own lives. Topics include the historical development of the schools of psychology, research methods, the biological determinants of behavior, altered states of consciousness, sensation and perception, conditioning and learning, cognition and memory, testing individual differences, normal and abnormal personality development, psychotherapy, and social psychology.
Student grades will be determined by performance on tests, quizzes, study guides, readings, and other assignments. A summer reading and writing assignment is required for students enrolling in the course. In addition, students may be asked to participate periodically in after school test taking and assessment sessions.
This course is also offered as a Dual Enrollment course through Reading Area Community College. Students who enroll in a Dual Enrollment course pay the cost per credit to Reading Area Community College. Participating universities and colleges may grant transfer credit to students who earn a qualifying grade for the course. For more detailed information about Dual Enrollment, please refer to the opening pages of the Program of Studies.
443 CRIMINOLOGY - GRADES 11 - 12 .5 Credit
6 Periods/Cycle/Per Semester
This course explores the types of crime, its history, its causes and the criminal justice system. Criminal procedures and constitutional rights relating to the rights of the accused are examined. The police and prison system are also studied in great depth. Group projects and guest speakers enhance the course.
450 MILITARY HISTORY - GRADES 9 - 12
.5 Credit
6 Periods/Cycle/Per Semester
The focus of the course will be the study of military leaders who have been influential throughout the history of the world, like George Washington, Sun Tzu, Peter the Great, Napoleon, Alexander the Great, Julius Caesar and several others. The class will study of the causes and effects of conflict, military battles and heroics, as well as some of the dramatic effects of war, both positive and negative, removing several glamorous aspects from the idea of violent conflict. This course may involve some philosophical debate and discussion about elements of leadership and teamwork, as well.
451 CURRENT GLOBAL ISSUES - GRADES 9 - 12 .5 Credit
6 Periods/Cycle/Per Semester
This course analyzes current global issues and world concerns, the history of their development and impact upon the United States and the rest of the world. Students are encouraged to create and implement viable solutions and strategies to such topics as the modern Middle East, the environment and overpopulation, energy resources and the global economy, AIDS, terrorism and nuclear proliferation, the rise of China and India. Success in Current Global Issues is heavily dependent upon class involvement, research, periodical readings and student analysis. This course also requires numerous student projects, debates and presentations.