Social Studies

John Wright

Co-Department Chair

Nick McCluskey

Co-Department Chair

Social Studies Department Members

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John Cascio

Social Studies Teacher

In three years of study, students will be able to analyze the core relationships between events of the past and our current world. They will also learn and appreciate the value of active citizenship while being exposed to and reflecting upon their knowledge and awareness of domestic and foreign affairs in an interdependent world.

Note: Washington State History Requirement - Washington State guidelines require all students to have successfully completed Washington State History in 7th/8th grade or high school. Seniors in need of this credit will take Pacific Rim Studies or an approved online course.

Courses

SS0901 - WORLD HISTORY (FULL YEAR)

This course is designed to enhance the student’s understanding of the cause/effect relationships that have impacted the progression of human development. The teaching of study skills, note taking, and reference use is also emphasized.

**NCAA Approved

SS0904 - INTERDISCIPLINARY HONORS WORLD HISTORY/ENG I (FULL YEAR)

Prerequisite: Department Chair and instructor approval based on entrance exam, teacher recommendations, and student interest.

It is designed to be a challenging interdisciplinary survey of the events and thoughts that have shaped the course of human history. This course satisfies one year of both Freshman Social Studies and English 1 credit requirements. Students are also required to participate in the Regional Washington State History Day competition.

**NCAA Approved

SS1100 - UNITED STATES HISTORY (SUMMER)

An intensive six-week survey of American history whereby students earn a full credit while learning the same skills and content as found in the regular course. Students who take this course typically do so to make room in their junior year schedule for other options. (There is an additional fee for this course.)

**NCAA Approved

SS1102 - UNITED STATES HISTORY (FULL YEAR)

A comprehensive survey designed to acquaint Juniors with an overview of the social, political, and economic development of the United States.

**NCAA Approved

SS1104 - AP UNITED STATES HISTORY (HONORS) (FULL YEAR)

Prerequisites: Minimum 3.2 cumulative GPA and English teacher recommendations.

The AP U.S. History course focuses on developing students’ understanding of American History from approximately 1491 to the War on Terror. Students will develop their written and verbal analyzation skills as the year progresses. It is designed to be the equivalent of a two semester introductory university U.S. History course and students will take the AP US History Exam in May.

**NCAA Approved

SSR122 - HONORS PUBLIC POLICY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE (FULL YEAR)

Prerequisites: Students will be considered for entrance into this course based on cumulative GPA, PSAT scores, and teacher recommendation.

In conjunction with Seattle University’s Matteo Ricci College Credit program, this course is divided into two components. The first introduces students to a variety of service-oriented activities and experiences. The second component is used to introduce and analyze the forces that shape our public policy. There is a strong emphasis on student-centered activities. The Seattle University course number is CISS 120 (Poverty in America).

**NCAA Approved

SS1235 - AMERICAN GOVERNMENT (SEMESTER)

This course includes units on the structure and functions of the Federal Government in relation to local issues. It also includes a comprehensive study of the United States Constitution.

**NCAA Approved

SS1203 - ECONOMICS (OC) (SEMESTER)

This course is designed to help students develop a better understanding of the nature and practices of our economic system.

**NCAA Approved

SS1209 - CURRENT ISSUES (SEMESTER)

This course explores the political, social, economic, and foreign policy issues of the day though the use of a variety of media and the most up-to-date information of our ever changing world.

**NCAA Approved

SS1243 - CULTURAL ANTHROPOLOGY (SEMESTER)

Cultural Anthropology offers an opportunity for students to become acquainted with anthropological perspectives and ways of thinking, and to develop critical knowledge. This course fosters the development of citizens who are globally aware and ethnically sensitive.

**NCAA Approved

SS1236 - PACIFIC RIM STUDIES (SEMESTER)

This course is designed to acquaint students with aspects of Washington State industry, geography, and political policy as they relate to the state’s economic interdependence with its Pan-Asian neighbors. This course will explore Pacific Rim geography, geology, historical background, cultural exchange, politics, trade, industry, and tourism. (This course will fulfill the Washington State History requirement.)

**NCAA Approved

SS2602 IRELAND HISTORY AND CULTURE IN CONTEXT (SEMESTER)

Prerequisites: Junior or senior standing; C or better in previous English class. Application process.

This course explores the historical, cultural, political, and literary heritage of Ireland and North Ireland, with a focus on the Civil Rights Movement; reconciliation, and peace process. Students combine classroom learning with service learning during the semester, culminating in a study trip to Ireland. Students are expected to participate in all pre-trip meeting, fundraisers, lectures, and classes. Upon successful completion of all class and trip assignments, students will receive .5 Senior Social Studies credit and ISLE service hours.