HISTORY To foster independent thinking and a global perspective, the History Department attempts to engender within students a historical perspective that prepares them to participate in and contribute positively to society; an awareness and understanding of current social issues such as sexism, racism and socialization; a respect for diversity; and essential social study and historical analysis skills. Graduation Requirement: Students are required to take Early World History, Modern World History, and United States History. During the eleventh grade, students complete a major research paper and participate in the three-day junior class trip to Washington, D.C. All students are encouraged to select one or more of the upper-level electives to fully prepare for college and life beyond
EARLY WORLD HISTORY (308)9 This course looks at the economic, political, social, and cultural development of world civilizations in the ancient and medieval worlds to answer two fundamental questions: “How do cultures organize and develop?” and “How do cultures interact?” Through the use of primary and secondary sources, students will study societies found in areas of the world including Africa, Central and South America, China, India and Greece. This course will take a thematic approach and will focus on a comparative analysis of these areas. There will also be a strong emphasis on essay writing, and a number of units will provide opportunities for students to develop and apply research skills. Students will complete a research paper during the second semester. Full Year
6 Credits
EARLY WORLD HISTORY (309) HONORS
9
This course covers the same thematic topics as the non-honors course, but in greater depth and complexity. The honors course shares common reading with the non-honors course, but there will be additional reading of both primary sources and analytical essays. Students in the honors course will complete the same major research projects, but will have additional analytical writing assignments. Significant class time will be devoted to discussion. Students enrolled in this course must have a strong ability to think analytically and reflectively; to understand and interpret complex sources, both primary and secondary; to articulate complex ideas verbally and in writing; and to share their passion and curiosity for ancient world history. Prerequisites: Full Year
A- in 8th grade history and department recommendation 6 Credits
MODERN WORLD HISTORY (330)
10
Who is a citizen, and how much power should a state have over its citizens? What enables countries to develop economically, and who gains or loses from that development? This course focuses on two themes, the formation of the modern state and the evolution of the modern global economy, to answer questions such as these and tell the story of the modern world in which we live. Looking at a diverse range of case studies, students will study the ways in which individuals’ relationships to their government and to the world economy have been shaped by the historical development of institutions over time. Case studies will include countries from Europe, Asia, Africa, and Latin America. As part of this course, students will complete a spring research paper. Full Year
6 Credits
30
