Curriculum Guide 2020-2021

historical and philosophical perspective as
it applies to issues, cases, and controversies.
Reading, discussion, writing, debate,
presentation, and role-playing help us
synthesize information from primary and
secondary sources to prepare students for
further historical and social inquiry.
Ancient World History
Grade 9
This course traces human history from the
Neolithic Revolution through the Middle
Ages to discover how early cultures shaped
our world. Students study the beginnings and
characteristics of civilizations in Africa, Asia,
and Europe and examine the development
of world religions, politics, and philosophy.
Students write independent research papers
and learn the fundamentals of historical
research and writing.
Modern World History
Grade 10
The Modern World course examines history
beginning with the era of the Renaissance
in Europe and continuing to the present day.
Students examine colonialism, nationalism,
world conflicts, and the place of individuals
in society. Using discussion-based learning
and problem-based approaches, students
use critical thinking skills to engage theories,
perspectives, and philosophies as they work
to understand historical patterns and events.
History/English 11 - American
Studies
The American Studies program connects
history and literature, offering a
multidisciplinary approach to exploring the
diversity and complexity of the evolving
American narrative. Students learn about
the major events and decisions that formed
American culture and the complex context
surrounding those events. They study literary
works of fiction, nonfiction, and poetry as
they become familiar with key themes in
American literature and their corresponding
historical, political, and economic contexts.
Essays, research projects, discussions, and
presentations are essential components of
the American Studies class. The doubleperiod
course, required of all juniors, is
taught by instructors from the English and
History departments and meets the credit
requirements in both disciplines.
SENIOR HISTORY COURSES
Oppression, Resistance, and
Transformation
This course in social, political, economic,
and racial history is an effort to prepare
students to be full participants in a
democracy, educating them about many
issues related to power, privilege, and
identity. Students will be prepared for diverse
environments and understand the dynamics
of oppression, as well as the history of
struggle and resistance. Students dive deeply
into the perspectives of marginalized people,
suppressed histories, and social movements
in order to understand the world today. In
terms of assessment, students can expect a
series of writing assignments, journaling, and
presentations on specific topics.
25