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Honors courses are designed for students who consistently exceed the objectives and expectations of the essential curriculum, both in terms of content knowledge and application. Course work includes an emphasis on abstract material and requires extensive independent work, self-discipline, and commitment to meet rigorous expectations and time lines. Successful completion of Honors course work will prepare students for post-high school education.
Every high school offers challenging college-level Advanced Placement courses. National AP exams administered by the College Board allow students to earn college credit for high scores.
Under the College and Career Readiness and College Completion Act of 2013, Maryland’s public high school students can take advantage of reduced tuition by enrolling in approved courses in public colleges and universities. Enrolling in a college course will provide students with the exposure to experiences and information necessary for making informed decisions when selecting a college or career. Through a partnership with Frederick Community College, students can engage in many dual enrollment options, including High School Based, Open Campus, Career Pathways, and Early College at FCC.
Completer Programs
Graduate with the course credits that the University System of Maryland (a consortium of Maryland
colleges and universities) deems essential for entering college:
□ 1 credit in Mathematics at the Algebra 2 level or beyond and
□ A Mathematics course during senior year
□ 2 credits in the same World Language
(Completion does not automatically qualify students for acceptance at the University of Maryland.)
Gain work-ready skills in a concentrated career or technical area by completing:
□ The required number of credits in an approved CTE Completer program.
See the Career & Technical Education section in the Course Offerings Guide for more information.
Talk with your counselor about the options outlined in the CTE Program Completer Requirement List
or access the list online: http://goo.gl/rXYjom
Increase your options for success after high school by successfully completing the credit requirements
for both of the above programs:
□ The required number of credits in an approved CTE Completer program and
□ 1 credit in Mathematics at the Algebra 2 level or beyond
□ A Mathematics course during senior year and
□ 2 credits in the same World Language
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Grade-Level Information &
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Course Descriptions
- All
- Advanced Placement
- Career & Technical Education
- Dual Enrollment
- English
- Health & Physical Education
- Mathematics
- Science
- Social Studies
- Visual & Performing Arts
- World Languages
Musical Theatre
MUSICAL THEATER 1.0 Credit Grades 9-12 Students will study history, dance, voice, and acting as they relate to the art of musical theatre. Specific focus of the course will include the history of musical theatre, dance for musical theatre, voice technique and theory for musical theatre, and acting for musical theatre. Exploration of techniques, processes and trends of musical theatre will be examined. (Course Code: 434132)
Philosophy of Knowledge
This course challenges students to examine the nature of knowledge. It provides students an opportunity to assess what constitutes knowledge and the different ways of knowing through a genuine exploration of the subject. This is achieved through a Socratic Method in the classroom, an examination of various primary and secondary sources, and expository writing. Students analyze the difference between belief and knowledge, and examine the scope, nature, and limitations of knowledge. They also learn to apply basic principles of logic and reasoning to the study of cultures, beliefs, world religions, etc. and will have the opportunity to find commonalities across disciplines of learning. They also learn how to determine and examine ideological biases and individual and cultural perspectives.
Wood, Design, & Applications (1-4)
Courses must be taken in sequence. This program will develop both hands-on fabrication skills as well as computer aided design (CAD) skills. Students will use a variety of woodworking hand tools, stationary power tools, as well as computer numerically controlled (CNC) routers, laser engravers, and 3D printers to practice traditional and advanced manufacturing and construction processes. Wood-working skills will be learned, enabling student to fabricate the projects they design. Students will learn CAD skills by designing both architecture and products throughout all four courses. This program will prepare students for an AutoDesk industry certification. Students will practice and apply the planning and management skills necessary for careers in manufacturing, architecture, design, management and similar industries. Projects will become increasingly more complex, building on prior skills throughout the four courses, refining the student’s skills to tackle projects from start to finish. Course materials fees are determined based on the type and amount of materials used to complete projects.
Levels: 1-4
Unified Physical Activity
This course is designed to provide students with and without disabilities the opportunity to experience all forms of sports activities in a modified, recreational, and less competitive environment. Students are instructed in specific modified sports and games activities that lead to the improved development of peer relationships, and transition to lifetime recreational activities for maintaining a healthy and physically active lifestyle.
Levels: 1-4
French
Students start by acquiring the basic skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing, while increasing their knowledge of French vocabulary, structure, and pronunciation. From the first year, French is the principal means of communication between teacher and students. As the levels advance, students function more effectively in French obtaining increasingly more detailed information from spoken and written messages, communicating more effectively when speaking and writing, and using more advanced structural concepts and vocabulary. At all levels, the culture of the Francophone world is a major part of language instruction, and students are encouraged to make connections to the French-speaking world. As students learn French, they gain a better understanding of the structure and vocabulary of their own language.
View a brochure from GTJHS's French program by clicking here.
Levels: 1-4, Advanced Placement
English 12
Emphasis is on the refinement of writing skills and techniques. Literary works and excerpts are used as models and sources for writing based on student needs and backgrounds. Students learn how to develop ideas thoroughly, to organize complex concepts at the essay, paragraph, and sentence levels, to make effective tone and other stylistic choices, and to use language fluently. NOTE: AP English courses are the equivalent of honors-level English for 12th grade students.
Theatre
INTRODUCTION TO THEATRE (THEATRE 1) 665170** Grades 9-12 A reasonable studio fee and other supplies are required. Students will develop a basic knowledge of theatre through participation in learning activities, i.e. theatre exercises and performances. Students will research and create artistic products through exploration of theatrical texts, playwriting, and technical theatre elements. They will study the history and development of a variety of dramatic forms, and the cultural influence of diverse places and historical time periods. Students will also connect with and respond critically to theatrical performances and artistic productions. THEATRE (ADVANCED) 665180 2 Grades 9-12 665190 3 Grades 10-12 665194 4 Grades 11-12 665195 5 Grades 12 665196 6 Grades 12 Prerequisite Theatre 2: Introduction to Theatre (Theatre 1) with a grade of C or higher and permission of the instructor. Prerequisite Theatre 3: Theatre 2 and permission of the instructor. Prerequisite Theatre 4: Theatre 3 and permission of the instructor. Prerequisite Theatre 5: Theatre 4 and permission of the instructor. Prerequisite Theatre 6: Theatre 5 and permission of the instructor. A reasonable studio fee and other supplies are required. Students will develop and refine skills in acting theory, as well as varied styles and techniques of acting, through research and individual performances/scene work. They begin to develop and refine a character through analysis, interpretation, and varied techniques; identify and apply the principles of effective use of voice and speech; study the history and development of more complex dramatic forms, including extended monologues and/or soliloquy; and study ways theatre reflects the culture and beliefs of diverse places and historical time periods. They continue to develop their knowledge of theatrical terminology and will read, analyze, and perform material from a variety of theatrical eras and playwrights. Students will explore the basic elements of technical theatre (e.g., makeup, lighting) and its relationship to the actor. Students will continue to develop effective methods of responding thoughtfully to theatrical performances and productions throughout the course.
Levels: 1-8
Anatomy & Physiology
Anatomy & Physiology is an elective course that integrates classwork, dissections and other laboratory experiences to provide students an opportunity to explore the relationship between structure and function in the human body. The course covers basic concepts of anatomy, physiology, genetics, diseases, disorders, immunology, aging, and/or related topics. It incorporates case studies, group work, dissections, labs and technology applications.
Team Sports
Prerequisite: Prior level of Team Sports or permission of instructor. Courses provide the opportunity to refine, expand, and improve specific sports skills, game strategies, and personal fitness plans. Students organize and develop round-robin, single and double-elimination tournaments. Students learn game rules as they relate to officiating and management. Students officiate games and are evaluated as athletic game officials on both written and practical tests. They investigate the costs, logistics, and feasibility of pursuing lifelong fitness through team sports. Activities may include: football, soccer, volleyball, basketball, softball, lacrosse, floor hockey, field hockey, and baseball.
String Orchestra
Prerequisites: First orchestra course: Orchestral program at the middle-school level and prior permission of the instructor. Additional orchestra courses: Previous orchestra course(s) and prior permission of the instructor. Students develop the basic skills and knowledge necessary to perform music alone, in small sections, and in larger ensembles. Ensembles consist of musical instruments commonly found in an orchestra. Students practice, rehearse, and perform a variety of orchestral literature, written at appropriate performance-grade level. In addition, students develop the ability to understand, appreciate, perceive, create, and respond to music through balanced instruction that includes studying works from historical, aesthetic, and critical perspectives. Attending and performing in required school and county music programs are compulsory. Participation in these music programs may occasionally involve evening or weekend performances. Students are provided with opportunities to participate in music auditions, adjudications, and festivals. After-school music rehearsals are scheduled as needed. Students should be prepared to participate in all aspects of the program and should not enroll if attendance at orchestra functions is a problem. Attendance at all activities (including rehearsals) is required.
Levels: 1-8
Psychology
This class examines the scientific study of behavior and mental processes including the study of behavior, sensation, perception, primary human development, learning, motivation, personality, abnormal psychology, therapy, and change. The human mind and the nervous system is also examined. Family Life and Human Development Bylaw (Focus Areas II and III) requires parental permission for enrollment in this course in which some topics deal with adolescence and personality.
AP Government & Politics
This course introduces students to key political ideas, institutions, policies, interactions, roles, and behaviors that characterize the political culture of the United States. The course examines politically significant concepts and themes, through which students learn to apply disciplinary reasoning, assess causes and consequences of political events, and interpret data to develop evidence-based arguments. *Course culminates with a state-mandated assessment.
See the syllabus below!
Concert Choir
Students develop and refine the basic skills and knowledge necessary to sing music alone, in unison, and in parts. They practice, rehearse, and perform a variety of choral literature, written at appropriate performance-grade level. In addition, students develop the ability to understand, appreciate, perceive, create, and respond to music through balanced instruction that includes studying works from historical, aesthetic, and critical perspectives. Attending and performing in required school and county music programs are compulsory. Participation in these music programs may occasionally involve evening or weekend performances. Students have opportunities to participate in music auditions, adjudications, and festivals. After-school music rehearsals are scheduled as needed. Students should be prepared to participate in all aspects of the program and should not enroll if attendance at concert choir functions is a problem. Attendance at all activities (including rehearsals) is required.
English 11
Emphasis in this College and Career Ready Standards based course is on the further development of critical reading and thinking skills and on composition, including the use of descriptive, narrative, and argumentative techniques. Thematic units that incorporate American literature are organized to help students increase fluency in reading critically and in crafting well-written compositions. Word study, language usage, research, and speaking and listening skills are incorporated into course lessons.
English 10
Emphasis in this College and Career Ready Standards based course is on the further development of critical reading and thinking skills and on composition, including the use of descriptive, narrative, and argumentative techniques. Thematic units that incorporate world literature are organized to help students increase fluency in reading critically and in crafting well-written compositions. Word study, language usage, research, and speaking and listening skills are incorporated into course lessons. English 10 YL A and B are designed for students needing extra support in reading. A primary reading comprehension or foundational reading intervention is infused into this course that spans the entire year. Students are placed into the appropriate tier of intervention based on assessments given at the start of the course. Successful completion of this course results in 2 credits: 1 credit for English 10 and 1 English elective credit. Students must pass both semesters to earn English 10 credit. *Course culminates with a state-mandated assessment.
Band
Students develop the basic skills and knowledge necessary to perform music alone, in small sections, and in large ensembles. Ensembles consist of the musical instruments commonly found in bands. The first semester of band courses is devoted primarily to the rehearsal and performance of marching activities, while the second semester focuses primarily on the rehearsal and performance of concert band literature. Students practice, rehearse, and perform a variety of band literature, written at appropriate performance-grade level. In addition to performing, students develop the ability to understand, appreciate, perceive, create, and respond to music through balanced instruction that includes studying works from historical, aesthetic, and critical perspectives. Attending and performing in required school and county music programs are compulsory. Participation in these music programs may occasionally involve evening or weekend performances. Students have opportunities to participate in music auditions, adjudications, and festivals. After-school music rehearsals are scheduled as needed. Attendance at summer band camp is recommended for successful participation in the fall marching program. Students should be prepared to participate in all aspects of the program and should not enroll if attendance at band functions is a problem. Attendance at all activities (including rehearsals) is required.
Levels: 1-8
AP Biology
Designed to be the equivalent of introductory college biology, students may earn college credit by examination. This course provides students with the conceptual framework, knowledge, and analytical skills necessary to deal critically with the science of biology. Both short and long-term laboratory investigations are an integral part of the curriculum. AP Biology topics center around four big ideas: evolution, cellular processes, genetics and information transfer, and interactions of biological systems. Although both AP Biology 1 and AP Biology 2 must be taken to complete the course content necessary to prepare for the AP examination, AP Biology 1 may be taken without continuing through AP Biology 2.
Modern World History
Students begin with an overview on the foundations of world history through an examination of the state of world affairs and their origins in 1300 C.E. This course is a survey of peoples throughout the world and their progress in many areas of knowledge, including science, technology, art, music, government, religion and culture. Units of study include how trade and travel changed the world, revolutions and reactions, industrial revolution, imperialism and nationalism, crisis and change, and the modern world. This course leads students in pursuit of historical knowledge from a global, thematic perspective.
Forensics & Debate
Emphasis is on improving thinking and speaking skills through
competition. Activities include declamation, extemporaneous
speaking, oratory, and prose and poetry reading. In debate,
students must present arguments and evidence in a highly
structured format that emphasizes research and critical thinking.
Mixed Chorus
Offered to all interested students and previous singing experience, while valuable, is not required. Students develop the basic skills and knowledge necessary to sing music alone, in unison, and in parts. They practice, rehearse, and perform a variety of choral literature, written at appropriate performance-grade level. In addition, students develop the ability to understand, appreciate, perceive, create, and respond to music through balanced instruction that includes studying works from historical, aesthetic, and critical perspectives. Attending and performing in required school and county music programs are compulsory. Participation in these music programs may occasionally involve evening or weekend performances. Students have opportunities to participate in music auditions, adjudications, and festivals. After-school music rehearsals are scheduled as needed. Students should be prepared to participate in all aspects of the program and should not enroll if attendance at chorus functions is a problem. Attendance at all activities (including rehearsals) is required.
Levels: 1-8
Dance
Students are encouraged to consider enrolling in one or more theatre arts or dance classes. The term theatre arts is the general term used to identify all aspects of the study and practice of the theatre. It includes acting, directing, and script analysis, as well as the many aspects of what is referred to as stagecraft, including staging, lighting, set design and construction, props, costuming, and makeup. A full range of courses is offered in all aspects of theatre arts. In the area of dance, all are welcome – from beginners who have never studied dance before to dancers with extensive experience in one or more dance forms and styles. In dance classes, students learn about the history of dance, as well as the ways in which dancers use the entire body to communicate ideas and feelings through choreographed and improvised movement. A range of dance courses is offered and teachers evaluate each student for placement in an appropriate level of instruction.
World War II
This course offers students an opportunity to study the international conflict that led to the atomic age, the emergence of the global economy, the creation of the United Nations, and the power struggles that shape the world. While exploring this conflict, students examine social, political, and economic events that led to increased hostilities and the expansion of the United States as a world power. Lessons address major campaigns, political battles, technological developments, civilian involvement, and the changes experienced by women, African-Americans, and other minorities as well as general mass discrimination during the period. Students approach this course from a world view, not just an American perspective, thus creating multiple vantage points from which to study the global conflict.
Fitness for Life (.5)
Fitness for Life must be successfully completed as a one-half
credit Maryland State Department of Education graduation
requirement for all 9th-grade students. Fitness for Life is
designed to provide concepts, principles, and values for healthy
life-style decision making. Students apply this information
to personal physical fitness and the development of lifelong
fitness pursuits. Students evaluate their physical fitness levels,
as well as develop and engage in a personal fitness program.
*This course is for .5 credit
Athletic Coaching
This course explores the profession of athletic coaching. The course focuses on leadership skills, coaching philosophy and theories, the care and treatment of sports injuries, the dangers of performance-enhancing drugs and the benefits of healthy nutrition. The course may also include field trips to local colleges, interviews with successful high school and college coaches, along with opportunities to volunteer with local youth sports leagues.
AP World History
The AP World History: Modern course will begin in 1200 CE, rather than 1450 CE, starting in the 2019-20 school year the course will study civilizations in Africa, the Americans, and Asia that are foundational to the modern era. Students develop and use the same skills, practices, and methods employed by historians: analyzing primary and secondary sources; making historical comparisons; utilizing reasoning about contextualization, causation, and continuity and change over time; and developing historical arguments. The course provides five themes that students explore throughout the course in order to make connections among historical developments in different times and places: interaction between humans and the environment; development and interaction of cultures; state building, expansion, and conflict; creation, expansion, and interaction of economic systems; and development and transformation of social structures. As this course does not correlate directly with Modern World History, any student who drops the class after ten school days may NOT transfer into a Modern World History class. Modern World History needs to be scheduled for another semester. Should students wish to remove the first semester AP World History grade on their transcript, ONLY HONORS - Modern World History will be an acceptable replacement. AP designation may remain on the transcript if the MWH grade is NOT a replacement but an addition.
See the syllabus below!
Health (.5)
This course must be successfully completed as a one-half
credit graduation requirement and is required for all 9th grade
students. The Health Education curriculum complies with
Maryland Public School law and the Maryland Health Education curricular framework. It includes units in drug education,
mental health, nutrition and fitness, and consumer education.
In addition, units in family life and human sexuality, as well as
HIV/AIDS education, are taught. These units require parental
permission. Alternative units are provided for students who do
not have parental permission.
*This course is for .5 credit
Sports Medicine
This course provides students with the opportunity to study the evaluation, care and treatment of athletic injuries. The course integrates science and physical education, with a focus on potential career considerations.
Strength Training & Fitness
Prerequisite: Prior level of Strength Training and Fitness or permission of instructor. A fee may be charged to help cover the cost of materials and equipment. This course provides an opportunity to further engage in activities designed to develop strength, muscular endurance, cardiovascular efficiency, flexibility, and speed and agility. Students are exposed to more advanced training programs that include competitive aspects of strength training and learn to develop individualized training programs and evaluate fitness according to the Frederick County Strength Training and Fitness Tests. Students may be charged a fee to help cover the cost of materials and equipment.
AP Psychology
This course introduces students to the systematic and scientific study of human behavior and mental processes. While considering the psychologists and studies that have shaped the field, students explore and apply psychological theories, key concepts, and phenomena associated with such topics as the biological bases of behavior, sensation and perception, learning and cognition, motivation, developmental psychology, testing and individual differences, treatment of abnormal behavior, and social psychology. Throughout the course, students employ psychological research methods, including ethical considerations, as they use the scientific method, analyze bias, evaluate claims and evidence, and effectively communicate ideas.
Journalism
This course helps students learn and apply skills related to news writing, editing, financing, and presentation.
Levels: 1-4
Creative Writing
This is an elective course for students who wish to apply composition skills in fiction, poetry, autobiographical essays, and other forms of creative writing. Students monitor their improvement through portfolios. The class produces an annual literary magazine.
Humanities
Emphasis is on the relationship of literature to social and
political developments from the Classical Period through the
Renaissance and Reformation. Materials are taken from Language Arts, Fine Arts, and Social Sciences. Writing includes
the critical essay. Students successfully completing this course
receive elective credit
Spanish for Bilingual Speakers
¡Ya hablas español! Regístrate en la clase de Spanish for bilingual! Aprenderemos a leer y a escribir en español y recuperarás el amor por las raíces de tu familia. La clase te servirá como crédito de World Language.
The purpose of these courses is to enhance the proficiency of students who are heritage speakers of Spanish and persons who have had significant exposure to the language. Via the use of literature, readings, and other authentic materials, the goal is to ensure a fundamental understanding of grammar, writing, spelling, speaking, and general literacy. These classes may be used to satisfy the world language completer.
Levels: 1-2
AP US History
AP U.S. History is designed to be the equivalent of a two semester introductory college or university U.S. history course. In AP U.S. History students investigate significant events, individuals, developments, and processes in nine historical periods from approximately 1491 to the present. Students develop and use the same skills, practices, and methods employed by historians: analyzing primary and secondary sources; making historical comparisons; utilizing reasoning about contextualization, causation, and continuity and change over time; and developing historical arguments. The course also provides seven themes that students explore throughout the course in order to make connections among historical developments in different times and places: American and national identity; migration and settlement; politics and power; work, exchange, and technology; America in the world; geography and the environment; and culture and society.
German
Students start by acquiring the basic skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing, while increasing their knowledge of German vocabulary, structure, and pronunciation. From the first year, German is the principal means of communication between teacher and students. As the levels advance, students function more effectively in German obtaining increasingly more detailed information from spoken and written messages, communicating more effectively when speaking and writing, and using more advanced structural concepts and vocabulary. At all levels, the culture of the German-speaking world is a major part of language instruction, and students are encouraged to make connections to the German-speaking world. As students learn German, they gain a better understanding of the structure and vocabulary of their own language.
Levels: 1-4, Advanced Placement
Spanish
Students start by acquiring the basic skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing, while increasing their knowledge of Spanish vocabulary, structure, and pronunciation. From the first year, Spanish is the principal means of communication between teacher and students. As the levels advance, students become more capable of functioning effectively in Spanish obtaining increasingly more information from spoken and written messages, communicating more effectively when speaking and writing, and using more advanced structural concepts and vocabulary. At all levels, the culture of the Spanish-speaking world is a major part of language instruction, and students are encouraged to make connections to the local Hispanic community. As students learn Spanish, they gain a better understanding of the structure and vocabulary of their own language.
Levels: 1-4, Advanced Placement
Latin
As students acquire increased knowledge of Latin vocabulary and grammar, they become better able to read with comprehension and accurately translate passages written in Latin. Integrated into instruction at each level are Roman and Greek culture, civilization, and mythology. Latin derivatives and Latin expressions used in English are important components of instruction in levels 1 and 2. Beginning in Latin 3, students are expected to read, translate, and analyze the works – prose and poetry – of Roman authors; they make connections to Rome’s culture and civilization as they pertain to the literary works under study.
Levels: 1-4, Advanced Placement
Ancient Greek
Ancient Greek familiarizes students with the Greek alphabet, vocabulary and grammar. This approach helps students develop the ability to read and translate short edited passages in the target language. There is also an emphasis on Greek culture and prominent figures of civilization. The class seeks to draw correlations between students’ prior knowledge and study in Latin III.
English 9
Emphasis in this College and Career Ready Standards based course is on development of critical reading and thinking skills and on composition, including the use of descriptive, narrative, and argumentative techniques. Thematic units that incorporate world literature are organized to help students increase fluency in reading critically and in crafting well-written compositions. Word study, language usage, research, and speaking and listening skills are incorporated into course lessons. English 9 YL A and B are designed for students needing extra support in reading. A primary reading comprehension or foundational reading intervention is infused into this course that spans the entire year. Students are placed into the appropriate tier of intervention based on assessments given at the start of the course. Successful completion of this course results in 2 credits: 1 credit for English 9 and 1 English elective credit.* Students must pass both semesters to earn English 9 credit.
AP Language & Composition
This college-level course prepares students for the AP examination in English Language and Composition. Emphasis is on the analysis of rhetorical devices employed in non-fiction, including essays, articles, and speeches. Students continually write timed and untimed essays on a variety of topics. Whereas four English credits meet the requirement for graduation, students are strongly encouraged to take an English course during their senior year.
AP Literature & Composition
This course prepares students for the AP examination in English Literature and Composition through a college-level class. Emphasis is on the refinement of individual writing styles and the critical analysis of literature. Students analyze representative literary works from several genres and periods. This seminar requires intensive class preparation, timed writing, analytical thinking, and independent assignments. Whereas four English credits meet the requirement for graduation, students are strongly encouraged to take an English course during their senior year.
Government
The course objectives are centered on the importance of civic education which is necessary to be an informed, involved citizen who understands and supports democratic principles, institutions, and processes. Political science classes are not taught in isolation but rather integrate examples from American history with concepts of government power and purpose, and examine the influence on today’s world. Topics studied include: the foundations of government, the Constitution, federalism, civil rights, civil liberties, political parties, policy making, and some comparison with other nations. THIS COURSE MUST BE TAKEN NO LATER THAN FALL OF SENIOR YEAR. *Course culminates with a state-mandated assessment.
American Studies II
American Studies 2 continues the time line from American Studies 1, from the early post-Civil War industrial era to the present. The social, economic, and political issues that shaped 20th-century America are analyzed and their implication for the future is examined so individuals can make considered choices and take appropriate action as active citizens. Students develop and test generalizations about relevant social science concepts after acquiring a factual knowledge of our society’s common culture. Topics include the United States as a world leader, civil rights and equity, protest and reform, criminal SOCIAL STUDIES Social studies courses draw upon the wealth of information and insight to be found in anthropology, history, psychology, economics, geography, political science, and sociology. The curriculum encourages students to apply the lessons of the past to the problems of the present, and to utilize investigation and problem-solving techniques to become vital participants in shaping and directing the future of our local, national, and world communities. To meet graduation requirements, all students must pass a course in United States history, American government and world history. SOCIAL STUDIES COURSE SEQUENCE SAMPLES 2020-2021 Grade 9 Grade 10 Grade 11 Grade 12 American Studies 2 163211 or 163111 Honors Government* 161201 or 161101 Honors Modern World History 161211 or 161111 Honors Any social studies elective including AP courses Dual Enrollment Options AP United States History & AP United States History Seminar 164140 & 164141 AP US Government & Politics* 164052 AP World History: Modern & AP World History: Modern, Seminar (Semester 1 and 2) 165141 & 165140 AP World History Modern 165151 (1 Semester) Any social studies elective including AP courses Dual Enrollment Options *Courses that are asterisked culminate with a state-mandated assessment. justice, government and the individual, environmental issues, war and peace, the issues of the 20th century, and contemporary issues that have defined the 21st century.
National & Global Issues
This course provides students the opportunity to study and discuss current national and global issues – such as the global economy and national and international conflicts – in an organized and scholarly manner. Participation may involve reading newspapers and news magazines, researching and writing about specific world problems, class discussions, and debating on various topics. Topics may be political or social and therefore controversial. Students should be able to consider divergent opinions with the expectation of developing skills to support opinion with fact. As the way in which technology affects the collection and dissemination of news, students may be using technology to analyze its impact on the spread of information worldwide.
Law & Society
This course explores and examines controversial issues that affect our society. Students have an opportunity to express their viewpoints on all issues that influence their daily lives, and extensive student participation and involvement are expected. Guest speakers from the legal community visit the classroom to give students a realistic look at the function of our judicial system. Involvement in role-playing activities provides students the chance to make decisions, problem solve, and think critically about their world.