Social Studies at Watchung Hills Regional High School
Info
SOCIAL STUDIES DEPARTMENT CURRICULUM
Curriculum Revision for 06-07
Curriculum Revision for 07-08:
Curriculum revisions will include a focus on the 19th century in the United States I course and a deeper treatment of economic integration in Europe for our Modern European History students. These important, but minor changes will be posted later in the fall.
2007 SUMMER ASSIGNMENTS: HONORS AND ADVANCED PLACEMENT STUDENTS
Deadline for completion: Friday, Sept. 7
About
Social Studies educators are entrusted with the responsibility of educating America’s youth with the knowledge, skills and perspectives to be responsible, civic-minded citizens. Through the study of history, political science, economics and geography, we model and promote conflict resolution skills, creative and ethical decision-making, communication through writing and speech, and the imperative to take part in the social order in a proactive, positive manner.
Our staff is committed to continuous professional growth and is now engaged in a five-year cycle to revise, reevaluate and implement our core curriculum. All incoming ninth graders take World Cultures as a requirement for graduation. In this “area studies” course, students examine variables critical to the definition of culture: geography, native populations, traditions and customs, exploration, colonialism, nationalism, independence and interdependence, modern problems and economic systems.
In the sophomore year, 80% of our students elect to study Modern European History as a full-year elective. Others embark on a hands-on study of civics and government.
Eleventh grade students begin their study of United States History by examining the era from European exploration through the turn of the 20th century. Our senior year course focuses entirely on the twentieth century, and asks students to consider important questions regarding the present public policy of the United States, and solutions for problems facing the United States and the world in the future.
The elective program is rich and vibrant, with emphasis on civics, government, public policy, law, the arts, literature and multiculturalism. We seek to develop a progressive, international curriculum that integrates language, science, mathematics and information technologies. If you would like to learn more about the social studies curriculum and department policies, or would like to support our efforts to give students interactive, hands-on experiences, please contact the Supervisor, Mr. Brock Mislan.