The history program encourages students to sort out the myriad facts of history in order to concentrate on the larger issues, those that require a rational, open-minded examination and evaluation of the political, economic and social conditions in our increasingly interdependent world.
The History Department offers Honors courses to students in grades 10, 11 and 12. Advanced Placement U.S. History and European History are offered to junior and senior students. The purpose of the program is to enrich, broaden and deepen the knowledge of those students who are particularly capable and interested in the study of history. Participation in the program requires self-motivation and self-discipline on the part of the student. Departmental approval is necessary for placement in Honors and Advanced Placement classes.
World History I
Ancient and Early Modern World History (Pre-history to 1500 C.E.)—Grade 9
In this era of globalization, through the use of primary documents, research, oral presentations and essay writing, students will examine the people and events that created the development of early cross-cultural and trade connections that are the foundations of our modern world. In addition, students will develop both the form and content of a formal research paper.
World History II
Modern World History (1500 C.E. to Present): Transformations—Grade 10
In an increasingly interdependent world, this course introduces students to the history of the modern world. The content of this course includes the major themes of world trade, geographic expansion, political and social change, industrialization, and international relations. The course also includes the use of appropriate primary sources and the completion of a research paper.
World History II Honors
Modern World History (1500 C.E. to Present): Honors—Grade 10
Through the interpretation and analysis of primary and secondary sources, this class continues the global approach to the study of world history by tracing the evolution of several major themes: world trade, geographic expansion, political and social change, industrialization and globalization. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking research projects and essays. Students may also apply for AP standing in this Honors course. In addition to their regular Honors course work, students working towards the AP World History exam will participate in a seminar course in preparation for the AP examination. Students passing the AP World History exam will be given retroactive AP credit for World History II.
Survey of United States History—Grades 11/12 (Required)
While highlighting the basic themes of the seventeenth, eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, this survey course focuses on twentieth century United States history. Examinations of primary sources and interpretive readings enhance the analysis of key developments from 1900 to 1990. The course emphasizes research and essay writing as primary skills. Students may apply for honors standing in this class.
Advanced Placement United States History—Grades 11/12
The Advanced Placement United States History course offers those students who show a special aptitude and interest in history an opportunity to address the problems and materials in American history. Advanced Placement students must evaluate historical events in order to provide their own interpretations and conclusions. Students must show a willingness to read voluminously, think creatively and participate actively. This course also meets the requirement for Survey of United States History.
Advanced Placement European History—Grades 11/12
This course includes the major political, social, economic and cultural developments in Western Europe from the Renaissance to the present. This full-year course requires a serious commitment to research and hard work.
History Electives—Grades 11 and 12
History electives are generally offered in alternate years based on student enrollment.
Constitutional Law
This year-long course, which students may enter in any trimester, examines the background, interpretation and evolution of constitutional rights embodied in the Bill of Rights, as well as other elements of our constitutional structure: judicial review, federalism and separation of powers.
African-American Studies
This trimester course explores the crucial role African-Americans have played in twentieth century United States history. Students examine the African-American experience in the context of social, economic and political events of the century. The impact of African-American culture on the larger American culture is a major focus.
Latino-American Studies
This course is a trimester survey of the neglected history, rich cultural heritage and present position of Latino-Americans in United States society.
Native American Studies
The native peoples of North America greeted European explorers as early as the 16th century. The story of their interactions with the “immigrants” to America over five centuries is complex and sometimes quite painful. This survey course helps students to understand the richness of Native American cultures and the current status of our original settlers.
European Civilization: Honors
This year-long course explores not only the general ideas and developments of European history but also focuses particularly on the social and cultural aspects of European civilization.
Global Issues—Post-World War II
This course focuses on key international issues of the post-World War II period. Students explore select topics of global significance with particular attention to their impact on industrial and developing nations around the world. The year-long course is divided into distinct trimester topics. Students may select all or some of the trimesters.
Public Issues
“Public issues are matters of widespread concern that frequently involve disagreement and controversy arising from differences in interests, beliefs, and values.” This year-long course, which students may enter in any trimester, examines the political, economic, and social issues facing the United States in the twenty-first century.
Social Psychology
This year-long course, which students may enter in any trimester, introduces students to the study of the behavior and mental processes of humans and other animals. The course emphasizes the history of psychology, the different theoretical approaches that explain behavior, as well as the various fields within psychology. Students may apply for honors standing in this class
Women’s Studies
This year-long course, which students may enter in any trimester, explores women’s experiences in family life, economic life, and public life throughout the history of the United States. Supplemental research investigates women’s roles in other cultures of the world as well as current issues confronting women today.