History
The study of history is global in its approach and grounded in the chronological study of human activities from ancient times to the present. History courses cover dates of battles and exploits of kings, but students also study the religious beliefs, philosophical values, aesthetic sensibilities, and the cultural mores of each era and place. Furthermore, the histories of those traditionally “without history” — the women, the children, the poor, and cultures outside of the mainstream — are studied to provide a fuller sense of human endeavor.
In sixth grade social studies students study indigenous communities from four world areas. They consider the concept of culture — what it is, how it is defined, how it is impacted by societal advancements. History 7 introduces early United States history with an emphasis on how the nation was created. History 8, 9, and 10 together offer an integrated chronological sequence of almost the entirety of world history. At the upper division level, United States history is offered for both regular and honors sections. History 12 asks students to use their foundational study of world and U.S. history to analyze and evaluate contemporary global issues.
Each year’s course comprises a survey of major movements and events combined with in-depth studies of selected areas of interest. At each level, students undertake individual research projects that develop valuable skills and add greater depth to understanding of the era. Class format includes lectures, discussions, group study activities, student presentations, debates, mock trials, slide shows, and films. In all grades, but especially during middle school years, assignments and course expectations are designed to give students opportunities to practice such skills as note-taking, material organization, time-management, test preparation techniques, cooperative skills, and clear oral and written expression.
In grades seven through eleven, a general text provides overall structure to the course content. Extra readings, such as primary sources, historical literature, mythology, and other real and fictional voices from the past promote a more vivid understanding of remote historical ages. These readings train students to approach texts critically and identify bias and its effect upon message. The twelfth grade history course uses an ensemble of modern critical, theoretical, and historical texts, and studies current events.
To see a complete listing of course descriptions please use the Curriculum Catalog.