History
Our History and Social Sciences curriculum provides our students with a fundamental grasp of how past events and cultures have shaped the present world and their own lives. Our students learn the skills necessary to acquire and critically assess historical interpretations, and analyze the perspectives of others, both past and present, as they seek to construct purpose and meaning in their own lives.
Over the course of four years, our students gain basic historical, geographical and chronological literacy. They are able to recognize and reflect on pivotal moments in human history and develop an understanding of and respect for different cultures, beliefs and traditions. The goal is for our students to develop their own voice and a sense of social and civic responsibility, a sincere concern for the common good, and a respect for the search for peaceful solutions to global problems.
The history curriculum is designed to improve students’ academic reading and writing skills and provide them with the organizational and independent study skills necessary to achieve success at an undergraduate, four-year university. Our students learn how to:
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Analyze and interpret both primary and secondary sources and evaluate their credibility and authority
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Identify authoritative historical sources
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Use factual evidence in their argumentation to support a clear, logical thesis
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Communicate confidently, collaborate effectively and listen carefully to the perspectives and thoughts of other people and groups
The curriculum begins with a study of World History in freshman year, which provides a big picture, thematic and systematic examination of the past, from the early humans to modernity. In sophomore year, the curriculum progresses to Modern Global History, which examines the influence of Western culture on other global cultures, or AP World History, which includes a rigorous study from 8,000 BCE to the present. The focus during junior year is United States History, which is also offered as an AP-level course. Both require the completion of a Junior Research Paper. Upperclassmen may further their studies by enrolling in a full-year elective course, such as:
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Economics
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Honors Entrepreneurship Seminar
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Honors U.S. Government and Politics
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Honors Philosophy Seminar
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Psychology
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The Gunn Scholar Program (application required at the end of junior year)