Social Studies courses offered in the Curriculum Guide

The social studies program is sequential in nature. The skills taught in 9th grade are necessary for a full understanding of the 10th grade curriculum. Similarly, the 10th grade curriculum prepares the student for the materials and activities covered in the 11th grade course. Therefore, students must successfully complete the 9th, 10th, 11th and 12th grade courses in sequence. Parallel enrollment will be permitted in cases of hardship only, with the approval of the principal.

Introduction to Applied Social Studies (1 credit)

This initial course is to help students develop and strengthen the skills necessary for academic achievement in future social studies courses. Students enrolled in this course will be immediately scheduled into Applied Global History I the following semester, and Applied Global History II the following semester after that.

Applied Global History I (1 credit)

Applied Global History I begins an in-depth study of various foreign nations and cultures. Students will also be instructed in writing skills necessary to be successful on the Global History and Geography Regents. Upon successful completion of this course, students will be scheduled in Applied Global History II the following semester.

Applied Global History II (1 credit)

Applied Global History II continues the study of various foreign nations and cultures while improving the writing skills taught in Applied Global History I. Students must pass the Global History and Geography Regents.

Global History and Geography I (1 credit)

Global History and Geography I provides students with the opportunity to study other nations and their cultures within a framework that is designed to develop a global perspective. This approach aims to develop in students knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to function effectively in a world characterized by ethnic diversity, cultural pluralism, international and domestic conflict, and increasing interdependence. A comprehensive final exam will be given at the end of the school year.

Global History and Geography II (1 credit)

Global History and Geography II provides students with the opportunity for continued study of other nations and cultures. This course is only for students who have completed Global History and Geography I. Students must pass the Global History and Geography Regents.

Global History and Geography II Honors (1 credit)

Global History II Honors is an advanced course designed to challenge students through in-depth, study of various foreign nations and cultures. Students considering this course should be independently motivated and possess strong writing skills. This course fulfills the Global History sequence and students will take the Global History Regents at the end of the course.

U.S. History and Government (1 credit)

This is an American history course with emphasis placed on the United States constitution and how it has evolved since 1787. Students learn about landmark Supreme Court cases and how the courts have interpreted the Bill of Rights throughout critical times in U. S. history. Other topics include immigration, industrialization, reform movements, prosperity, depression, foreign policy and conflicts. Students must take and pass the United States History & Government Regents for credit and graduation.

Applied Economics (1/2 credit)

The goal of this course is to enable students to make reasoned judgments about both personal economic questions and broader questions of economic policy in our continually changing world.

Applied Participation in Government (1/2 credit)

This course will encourage students to see themselves as makers of policy in our government, and to develop a strong interest in and commitment to active participation in the political process.

Participation in Government 12 (1/2 credit)

This required course is designed to prepare students for active participation in the democratic process. Students practice the skills necessary for informed decision-making and effective participation in government through the analysis of both current and historical issues.

Economics 12 (1/2 credit)

The purpose of this required course is to provide students with a general understanding of the functioning of economic systems. While the major focus of the course is the capitalist system, other forms of economic systems will be discussed.

College Psychology (1 credit)

The purpose of College Psychology is to introduce students to the systematic and scientific study of the behavior and mental processes of human beings and other animals. Students are exposed to the psychological facts, principles and phenomena associated with each of the major subfields within psychology.

College Psychology offers a course description and examination to qualified students who wish to complete studies in secondary school equivalent to an introductory college course. Students can earn college credit through Onondaga Community College upon payment of tuition. (3 credits, Psych 103) Admission to this course is contingent upon several factors: teacher recommendations, overall average, English 11 and Social Studies 11 average, and PSAT scores.