SOCIAL STUDIES DEPARTMENT SS019
Early American History
6
1 Credit
The content of the course will begin with a study of early pre-Colonial and Colonial American history, progressing through the Revolutionary War era and concluding during the prewar and Civil War periods. There will be a detailed analysis of the primary sources that defined our nation, including the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. Study and note-taking skills are emphasized throughout the year: attention to detail, keeping maps and worksheets nearly organized, completing assignments daily, and reviewing effectively before tests and exams. SS003
Modern American History
7
1 Credit
The course content continues through an analysis of the Gilded Age and the Industrial expansion of America into an imperial power. Additionally, the advent of World War 1 and the Great Depression will be covered, continuing onwards into World War 2 and an analysis of the post-war period. The course is focused on reinforcing the basic note-taking and essay-writing skills that were reviewed in Early American History course. The content of the course will be used to promote and augment the above skills. ENR007
Military History
7-8
1 Credit 1 Semester
In this course, we will examine the history of warfare from the ancient world up through the modern era: from the Greek phalanx to the laser-guided “bunker busters” of the War on Terror. The course will focus on the evolution of military technology as well as the connections between military innovations and advances in the larger scientific community. We will also explore how the “rules of war” have changed over time, with a special emphasis on St. Thomas Aquinas’ just war theory. ENR002
News Room
7-8
1 Credit 1 Semester
In this course, students will learn both how to analyze and interpret news media and how to create it themselves. A special emphasis will be placed on media literacy by teaching students how to evaluate online sources for bias. Readings will include selections from major news outlets, magazines, and popular websites (e.g., The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Atlantic Monthly, FiveThirtyEight). As part of their studies, students in this course will be expected to research and create their own news media: news articles, Op-Eds, and video broadcasts. Readings and activities will span a broad range of current events topics, including politics, international affairs, sports, business and general human interest.
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