The course begins by covering some of the mechanics of geography, such as the earth’s planetary attributes, latitude and longitude, seasons, climate, etc., as a means to build map skills. These topics will be integrated into a regional study of the world, with an emphasis on human topics, such as:  the effect of the physical environment on culture, history (with a special focus on non-western areas), religion and economics.

WORLD HISTORY 

World History – College Prep Grade 10 Full Year

This course begins with ancient cultures and civilizations, highlighting various aspects of church history, followed by the Renaissance, Reformation, Age of Discovery, Revolution, Romanticism and Nationalism. The course ends with the Modern Age, World and Cold Wars. Students will utilize writing, analytical and communication skills in the form of writing assignments, research papers, and oral presentations.

AP WORLD HISTORY

World History – Advanced Placement College Prep Grade 10 Full Year

Prerequisite: Freshmen English with A’s both semesters or Administrator approval.  Students are required to pass the summer assignment.

This course is intended for qualified students and is equivalent to an entry-level college course. It is a comprehensive study of world history through the ages, from prehistoric to modern times.  Students will learn factual knowledge, evaluate and utilize primary source documents, along with analytical skills to enable them to assess historical materials and to write three types of critical thinking essays.  Due to the extent of course material, students are expected to complete independent reading and homework assignments.   Students are required to take the AP Exam in May.  Those who receive a score of 3, 4, or 5 may be eligible to receive college credit. The summer Writing Preparatory course is strongly recommended for students taking this course. 

U.S. HISTORY

US History – College Prep Grade 11 Full Year

This course is a chronological study of the political, social, cultural, economic, intellectual and religious components of American history. The first semester will focus on the Colonial Era, the Revolution and Constitution, the Age of Jackson, Manifest Destiny, the Civil War and Reconstruction, and the Industrial Age. The second semester will continue with the Spanish-American War, Progressivism, the First World War, the Roaring Twenties, the Great Depression, the Second World War, and the Cold War. Students will be expected to read the textbook, write historical essays and interpret primary source documents.

AP U.S. HISTORY

US History – Advanced Placement College Prep Grade 11 Full Year

Prerequisite: AP World History with B’s in both semesters or World History and Sophomore English with A’s in both semesters.  Students are required to pass the summer assignment.

This course is a one year in-depth study of American history from the 15th to the 21st century. The course satisfies the California State Requirements and prepares students to take the mandatory AP Exam. AP United States History is considerably more demanding than the college preparatory course based on the skills and commitment necessary to be successful. The course emphasizes analytical thought, written and verbal argumentation skills, interpretation of primary source documents and memorization. The course incorporates a college level textbook with advanced vocabulary and requires extensive reading assignments throughout the semester.

AMERICAN GOVERNMENT

American Government – College Prep Grade 12 Fall Semester

This course provides instruction in the principles of American government with particular concern placed upon the legislative, executive, and judicial functions of the National, state, and local levels of government. In addition, students will increase their understanding of the United States Constitution with an emphasis on the Bill of Rights.

ECONOMICS 

Economics – College Prep Grade 12 Spring Semester

This course surveys economic principles, issues, and analyses that will give students a sound grasp of both theoretical and practical approaches to economics. The course emphasizes the principles of supply and demand, pricing concerns, interdependence of resources, and manufacturing, trade, and organizations as factors in the United States economy.

AP US GOVERNMENT/POLITICS  

Government – Advanced Placement College Prep Grade 12 Full Year

Prerequisite:  AP U.S. History with B’s or better in both semesters or U.S. History and Junior English with A’s both semesters, or Administrator approval.  Students are required to pass the summer assignment.

This course is intended for qualified students and is equivalent to an entry-level college course. The curriculum consists of learning the historical foundations of American Government and it’s application to modern society. The U.S. Constitution, Bill of Rights, and state’s rights are fully examined and discussed. Additionally, the sources of present day political decisions and actions, bureaucratic institutions, political parties, and mass media are analyzed. The course contains formal debates and essay writing in preparation for success on the AP Exam. Students are required to take the AP Exam in May.  Those who receive a score of 3, 4, or 5 may be eligible to receive college credit. 

AP EUROPEAN HISTORY 

History Elective – Advanced Placement Grades 11-12 Full Year

Prerequisites:  AP World History with B’s or better in both semesters or World History with A’s in both semesters, or Administrator approval. Students are required to pass the summer assignment.