The History of Race and Science (s) 38482 Grade Level: 10th – 12th (10th graders must take concurrently with core science course) Placement preference will be given to rising Juniors and Seniors. Prerequisite: None Why has science been used to justify racial thinking? How does your racial identity develop during adolescence? How can reexamining history help us to eliminate interpersonal and systemic racism? The History of Race and Science explores the construct of race as a social and historical phenomenon. Beginning with the historical evolution of race, students will explore the role that science has played in perpetuating race, considering both the biological myth and social reality in context of the historical time period. In order to understand these concepts more fully, we will engage in an interdisciplinary exploration of eugenics, racial conflicts, intergroup behavior, identity development, and contemporary social justice issues. We will explore the construction of the racial-ethnic-cultural identities in the United States, incorporating multidisciplinary readings and activities. Along the way, students will discuss the historical events and patterns that have influenced the construction of race and resulting manifestation in society, working to develop a stronger understanding of the world today.
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