Social Science Courses
Economics & Engineering – 9th grade
This course exposes students to the worlds of business, product development, manufacturing, technology, global wealth, and environmental policy. This course is designed to prepare students for post-secondary education and the workplace; explore techniques to build critical thinking, problem solving, communication, and teamwork; explore inquiry-and problem-based approaches to teaching and learning; and to link the classroom with real world applications. Students will apply their knowledge to solve problems, craft arguments, write persuasively, perform internet research, convey ideas to an audience, and conduct presentations using technology.
World History – 10th grade
Through the exploration of the culture, geography, and past and current events of different regions, World History will develop analysis, interpretation, and critical thinking skills. Students will develop their own perception of history with the study of historical documents, and film. Their unique perception will be represented in a portfolio containing journals, essays and projects completed throughout the year. World History and English II compliment one another as the student enriches history through critical reading and analysis of novels.
US History – 11th grade
This course is designed to deepen each student's awareness of his/her American heritage and responsibilities as a citizen. Students will examine the development of the Constitution of the United States and the ways in which our government has evolved over time. All students are required to pass a test on both the U.S. and Illinois Constitutions. Student will engage in an examination of economic, intellectual, cultural, social, and environmental developments, as well as civil rights, labor issues and topics in foreign policy which have confronted citizens throughout various eras in our nation's history. Students will then evaluate the response of the government and individual citizens to these issues. In addition, students will develop skills in critical reading, issue analysis, and arguing point of view. Historical research is a year-long focus as each student prepares a cumulative research project.
Civil Engineering – 12th grade
Civil Engineering and Urban Design is a college prep class designed for 12th graders. The primary purpose of this class is for students to understand how city is structured and designed through science, and how a city is structured and designed by human behavior, environment, and social priority. Students will learn about Civil Engineering in classroom based and hands on construction, with particular emphasis on Reavit drafting software, surveying equipment, soil testing, building codes, building and site components, and utilities and building design. Students will develop knowledge through project-based learning.
Women's Studies – 10th - 12th grades
This Women’s Studies course examines the many facets of female development from birth through old age. The student explores a variety of themes through the study of psychological concepts and literary selections. These themes include gender role development, adolescence, self-esteem, relationships, employment and career options, women’s political power, and women’s health issues. The goals of the course include the further refinement of written and oral skills, the identification of the variety of opportunities for women, and an appreciation for the diversity of women’s experiences.
Psychology – 10th – 12th grades
Psychology is the scientific study of human behavior. This course introduces the student to the methods employed by psychologists in understanding human behavior. Topics include the history of psychology, brain and behavior, motivation and emotion, states of consciousness, the process of learning, intelligence and memory, stress and personality adjustment, and mental disorders and treatments. Students are actively involved in their learning as they journal, research, conduct experiments, give presentations, read and review current topics in periodicals, and view contemporary films which deal with various psychological themes. The study of psychology promotes empathy towards others, an appreciation of the unique nature of the individual, and the importance of sound mental health.
