Social Studies
The Social Studies Department bases its goals and organization on three major assumptions: 1) there is a great need for responsible, well-informed American and global citizens in the world today; 2) our student body needs and expects to be well prepared for college or university level work; 3) an enjoyment of—and an interest in—geography, history, political science, and the other social sciences contributes to the quality and richness of life. Within this context, factual information is presented as an essential tool to successful participation in, and understanding of, the world today-—not simply an end in itself. Thought and critical analysis are encouraged. Further, material is presented in a manner to foster sensitivity to various forms of injustice such as prejudice, ethnocentrism and greed. Basic skills such as reading, writing, speaking, and organizing are stressed in order to foster academic success as well as the ability and interest to participate in community, state, national, and international affairs. The Social Studies program also encourages both diversity of presentation and evaluation in hopes of stimulating and maintaining student interest.
Courses Offered
Course offerings are contingent on MPA policies regarding student enrollment numbers for each class.
| Foundations of World History |
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Our course introduces students to the historical inquiry and literacy skills they will use for the rest of their scholastic careers. Students will read a variety of non-fiction texts to gather information and craft responses to historical research questions, teach others vital information, and discuss relevant evidence. Content includes but is not limited to: world geography and mapping skills, Ancient China, the Indus Valley Civilization, Ancient Mediterranean civilizations, comparative religions, and the Middle Ages through the Reformation. Students will read, write, speak, and ask questions, and learn through practice and revision. |
| U.S. History 1 |
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Our course will begin by discussing the difference between a dominant and a non-dominate storyteller. Understanding the difference is essential when learning about the history of the United States. Most traditional American History textbooks focus on a Eurocentric and White view of our country’s development. Instead, this course is focused on honing your historical detective skills through reading primary sources from all parties involved and creating a holistic narrative that includes the non-dominate perspective. Our study of history will focus on the cultural, political, and economic factors that helped develop the United States from colony to country and analyze how these factors impacted the multiple ethnic groups. Classroom activities will focus on skills development in the areas of expository writing, communication skills, content knowledge, and critical thinking skills. Assignments will be project-based with a focus on developing reading, speaking, writing, and critical thinking skills. |
| U.S. History II |
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Our course will begin by discussing the difference between a dominant and a non-dominate storyteller. Understanding the difference is essential when learning about the history of the United States. Most traditional American History textbooks focus on a Eurocentric and White view of our country’s development. Instead, this course is focused on honing your historical detective skills through reading primary sources from all parties involved and creating a holistic narrative that includes the non-dominate perspective. Our study of history will focus on the cultural, political, and economic factors that helped develop the United States from colony to country and analyze how these factors impacted the multiple ethnic groups. Classroom activities will focus on skills development in the areas of expository writing, communication skills, content knowledge, and critical thinking skills. Assignments will be project-based with a focus on developing reading, speaking, writing, and critical thinking skills. |
| Contemporary Global Issues |
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Our course focuses on current events and issues, including but not limited to: global climate change, poverty and food insecurity, human rights, and healthcare. Students will encounter and evaluate a variety of sources; craft written and spoken answers to research questions; and engage in discussion, debate, and creative projects. This course is designed as a workshop, with each student challenged to think critically as they begin to recognize themselves as global citizens and members of the human community. |
