Electives
Each year a selection of electives are offered up to the student body, some running more frequently than others (i.e. AP US, Sociology, Law). This year also introduces one brand new course, History of Your Life, and a return to a division between Constitutional and Street Law. Click on the unit name or picture to bring you to the course resource page (Course resources are filling up as we proceed throughout the year).
EQ: How does understanding sociology help me to be a more productive member of society?
The characteristics of culture and cultural diversity will be explored to show students the basic reasons why societies are slow to change. The socialization process will be emphasized to show how customs are passed from one generation to the next. Social problems in America will be emphasized.
EQ: How does psychology affect my life on a daily basis?
This elective course is designed to promote an understanding of human behavior. Special areas of study include the study of perception, personality, abnormal behavior, psychological testing, and theories of learning. Students will gain a better perspective about their behavior and the behavior of those around them by enrolling in this course. A substantial amount of reading and writing is expected, about 3-4 books and related projects. Class participation is essential for success in the course.
EQ: How does American law reflect our democratic values?
This elective course is premised upon the conceptual basis of the American legal system. This course delves into the criminal and constitutional case studies that underpin American law. Students are required to do independent research, write research papers, complete outside projects, participate in mock trials, and other simulations. The second marking term includes a major class law project that draws upon the ability to work in small groups toward a common class goal. Students should be self-motivated. Students may not take this course if they have already taken the “Law” course offered in previous years.
EQ: What events have happened in my lifetime that will shape my future?
This senior elective course focuses on events of the past twenty years and how those events will impact your future. The course will look at how recent political and social occurrences have had an impact on our world today and will impact your prospective future. Activities will include research papers, comparative projects, and class presentations.
AP United States History
Street Law
EQ: How does understanding law help me to be a better citizen?
This elective course is designed to study the real-world applications of criminal, constitutional, family and business law. Students are required to do independent research and write research papers, plus complete outside projects. Students participate in mock trials and other simulations. The second marking term includes a major class law project that draws upon the ability to work in small groups toward a common class goal. Students may not take this course if they have already taken the “Law” course offered in previous years.
EQ: How can the study of European history help me understand myself and the world today?
This college level course is an intensive, yearlong study of the social, political and economic changes that have taken place in Europe from 1300 to the present. The course is designed to challenge and develop students’ skills in written and verbal expression, document analysis, synthesis of new historical interpretations, and retention of content knowledge. Students must be highly motivated and self-disciplined. The final exam is the subject-specific exam offered in conjunction with the College Board.
It is strongly recommended that students take either Honors American Studies History or AP U.S. History before
taking this course
EQ: What can the American experience teach me about myself and the world in which I live?
An intensive, yearlong study of United States history, the course workload includes intensive reading, writing, document analysis, and independent projects. The final exam is the subject-specific exam offered in conjunction with the College Board.