Social Studies Courses

This course explores the world through key geographic lenses: population and culture, economics and the environment, political systems, and urban development. Students will build critical thinking, map-reading and data analysis skills to understand global patterns and human-environment interactions. By examining how people shape – and are shaped by – their surroundings, students will gain valuable insights into current global issues and develop geographic literacy essential for informed citizenship in an interconnected world.

Prerequisites: None
Grade: 9
Course Length: One semester
Credit: One-half credit

Students apply their understanding of the seven major social sciences in examining the major culture regions of the world, expanding their capacity for critical thought, sensitivity and creativity. Students demonstrate growth in these areas through written and oral presentations and class discussion on a regular basis.

AP World History students will study major themes and events which have impacted and continue to impact the cultures and civilizations of the world. Course themes of study will include: the Global Tapestry, Networks of Exchange, Land-Based Empires, Transoceanic Interconnections, Revolutions, Consequences of Industrialization, Global Conflict, Cold War and Decolonization, and Globalization. A critical component of the course will be the examination and comparison of cultures and societies over time and distance. In this entry-level college-curriculum course, students will expand learning/investigative skills including: comparative studies and evaluation of historical evidence, chronological reasoning, comparison and contextualization, and historical interpretation and synthesis. Course work will require extended reading for study, topical research, and challenging writing activities as part of the development of historical argumentation skills. AP-formatted curriculum will enable students to take the AP World History Exam at the end of second semester. Students are prepared for and expected to take the AP World History: Modern exam in May.

This course traces the growth and development of American culture from early Native Americans through the 1900’s. Students will read, research, analyze, and discuss special topics in American history including: the Colonial Period, the American Revolution, the U.S. Constitution and early government, Sectionalism and the Civil War, turn-of-the-century American development of business and industry, America’s involvement and growth as a world power, the Depression years, the Cold War in America and the countercultural revolution.

Prerequisites: None
Grade: 11
Course Length: One year
Credit: One credit

Students will study, discuss, analyze, and research the development of U.S. history from the European colonial period to the first decade of the twenty-first century. The course places emphasis on the evolution and development of U.S. social, political, and economic life and the continual contribution of diverse ethnic groups who comprise United States history, culture, and society.

Prerequisites: 92% cumulative GPA
Grade: 11
Course Length: One year
Credit: One credit

This course is an introduction to the system of government in the United States, with an emphasis on the Constitution and the Bill of Rights. Additional topics include: forms of government; roots of the U.S. government; the three branches; the legislative process; individual rights and responsibilities; the legal system; political parties and elections; and civil rights and civil liberties. Students will apply course content to historical and current events, and also will fulfill certain civic duties and pass a U.S. Constitution exam.

Prerequisites: None
Grade: 12
Course Length: One semester
Credit: One-half credit

This course is an in-depth treatment of the system of government in the United States, including: the three branches of government; political parties and elections; the legislative process; civil rights and liberties; interest groups; the role of media in politics; state and local governments; landmark legal decisions; foreign policy; and governmental finance and regulation. Substantial emphasis will be placed on the application of principles and concepts to current and historical events with accompanying classroom discussion and debate. Students also will fulfill certain civic duties, complete a project, and prepare to take the AP U.S. Government and Politics exam in May.

Prerequisites: 92% cumulative GPA
Grade: 12
Course Length: One year
Credit: One credit

Have you ever wondered why your behavior sometimes changes when you are in a group? Sociology is the study of human social behavior and relationships and how they are affected greatly by our experiences in groups, organizations and institutions. Students will learn about various cultures and how they develop norms, values and beliefs. Students also will examine how humans are socialized and why we behave certain ways in family, work and social settings. Finally, students will focus on social inequalities and how society treats people who deviate from established norms and values.

Prerequisites: None
Grade: 11, 12
Course Length: One semester
Credit: One-half credit

Are you interested in why you do the things you do? What genetic and environmental factors influence your behavior? If you answered yes to these questions, Psychology is the course for you. Psychology is a constantly evolving, fascinating field which blends scientific and social phenomenon. Students will explore the human mind, consciousness, motivation, stress, social interaction, abnormal behaviors, and treatment options. Students will complete a final research project at the end of the semester.

Prerequisites: None
Grade: 11, 12
Course Length: One semester
Credit: One-half credit

This Advanced Placement course is designed to be the equivalent of an introductory college course in psychology and will introduce students to the systemic and scientific study of the behavior and mental processes of humans and animals. Students are exposed to the psychological facts, principles and phenomena associated with the major subfields within psychology. Particular emphasis will be placed on research methods, the biological bases for behavior, learning, cognition, developmental psychology, the diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders, personality theories and social psychology. Students also will learn about the ethics and methods psychologists use in their science and practice. Finally, students will take part in classroom lab activities and prepare to take the national AP exam in May.

Prerequisites: 92% cumulative GPA
Grade: 11, 12
Course Length: One year
Credit: One credit
Option: AP Exam (additional fee) or Dual Enrollment (87% cumulative GPA and additional fee)

Students enrolled in the Global Scholars course will enhance their interconnectedness and enrich their global competencies. Topics will include: Personal cultural reflection to enhance communication and engagement across diverse cultures Exploring careers in diplomacy and international relations Global issues impacting local communities (interwoven examples of community issues being addressed globally) Exploring diverse populations and diaspora in the Kansas City metropolitan area Personal and professional skill building for a globally-minded future Enrollment in this course requires acceptance into the Global Scholars program.

Prerequisites: Acceptance in the Global Learning and Engagement Scholars Program
Grade: 11, 12
Course Length: One semester (Fall Only)
Credit: One-half credit