Social Studies Department
The Social Studies department emphasizes a well-rounded academic preparation in World Geography, World History, American History, Government, and Economics. Skill building is viewed as an essential discipline developed through the learning of the content knowledge. The process of analyzing, synthesizing, and evaluating historical content is a priority to creating a more globally conscience citizen who is empathetic to various viewpoints. Primary and secondary sources, supplemental readings, and a variety of assessment techniques (research papers, projects, book reviews, presentations, and exams) are used to develop these important skills. Lecture, class discussion, simulations, and media presentations are the predominant instructional techniques implemented in our classrooms. A writing emphasis is placed towards historical research, factual argumentative persuasion, and succinct analysis. Cross-curricular projects and coordination is a valuable tool to supplement content in conjunction with the English and Theology departments. The state curriculum framework continues to be the overlying guideline to the department’s content.
Course Offerings
- World Geography (one semester): Freshmen
- World History College Prep: Sophomores
- AP European History: Sophomores
- United States History College Prep: Juniors
- AP United States History: Juniors
- Government College Prep (one semester): Seniors
- AP Government United States (one semester): Seniors
- Economics College Prep (one semester): Seniors
- Economics Honors (one semester): Seniors
Social Studies Department Support of the ESLR’s
Spiritually Developed Person - The Social Studies department is committed to furthering the spiritual growth of our students.
- The Social Studies department continues to place an emphasis on the empathy towards other cultures, populations, world situations, and viewpoints.
- Classes begin with prayer.
- Emphasize the role of religion in the shape of our historical journey.
Academically Prepared Student - The skill building in conjunction with historical content of the Social Studies department fosters a well-rounded academically prepared student.
- Our curriculum complies with Central Catholic graduation requirements and mirrors the outline of the state framework and standards.
- Students develop independent and critical learning based on analysis, synthesis, and evaluation of materials.
- Students are encouraged to formulate arguments and participate within a classroom setting based on historical content.
- Students are expected to conduct independent research using various tools including periodicals, historical journals, anthologies, and Internet.
- Students are expected to read, analyze, and interpret historical documents, historical journals, primary resources, and periodicals.
- Students work cooperatively in group activities, discussions, or projects teaching interpersonal skills.
- Students are required to maintain lecture notes, ancillary documents, media content, etc. to support textbook curriculum.
Socially Responsible - Understanding the interconnection of social justice, citizenship, and leadership emphasizes the core values of the Social Studies department.
- Students develop an awareness of the social and cultural geopolitical world in which they live.
- Students examine the ramifications of social and cultural divergences throughout human history.
- Students develop an understanding of our own social and cultural identity.
- Students are encouraged to formulate and articulate a position on key social issues.
Globally Conscience - The department is committed to emphasizing the increasing importance of our global community.
- Students acquire a fundamental understanding of physical, cultural, and contemporary global geography.
- Students examine the history, development, and convergence of the global communities.
- Students understand the diverse and distinctive development of the United States and its role to the global community.
- Students understand their role as a United States and global citizen.
- Students examine the complexity of world conflicts, interdependence, and the role of governments.
Department Members
