Social Science Classes

SOCIAL SCIENCE

The Alhambra Unified School District Social Science courses are aligned to state and Common Core standards. Three years of social science is required for graduation including one year of World History; one year of United States History; one semester of American Government; and one semester of Economics.

Human Geography 1/2 AP SS (CSU/UC “g”)

Grade Level Option: 9-12

Prerequisite: None

The purpose of the AP course in Human Geography is to introduce students to the systematic study of patterns and processes that have shaped human understanding, use, and alteration of Earth’s surface/ Students employ spatial concepts and landscape analysis to examine human social organization and its environmental consequences. They also learn about the methods and tools geographers use in their science and practice. A course grade of ‘C’ or higher earns an additional point towards GPA.

World History 1/2, SDAIE SS, (CSU/UC “a”)

Grade Level Option: 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite: None

In this course, students examine major turning points in the shaping of modern world, from the late eighteenth century to the present. The year begins with an introduction to current world issues and then continues with a focus on the expansion of the West and the growing interdependence of people and cultures throughout the world.

World History 1/2 AP SS, (CSU/UC “a”)

Grade Level Option: 10

Prerequisite: None

Students study the evolution of global processes and human societies. The course builds on an understanding of cultural, institutional, and technological precedents that, along with geography, set the human stage. Students learn through a combination of factual knowledge and analytical skills. Students enrolled in the course are encouraged to take the World History AP exam. A course grade of ‘C’ or higher earns an additional point towards GPA.

United States History 1/2, SDAIE SS, (CSU/UC “a”)

Grade Level Option: 11

Prerequisite: None

In this course, students examine major turning points in American history with an emphasis on the twentieth century. After a review of early American history, certain themes will be emphasized: the expanding role of the federal government and federal courts; the continuing tension between the individual and the state and between minority rights and majority power; the emergence of a modern corporate economy; the impact of technology on American society and culture; change in the ethnic composition of American society; the movements towards equal rights for racial minorities and women; and the role of the U.S.A. as a major world power.

United States History 1/2 AP SS, (CSU / UC “a”)

Grade Level Option: 11

Prerequisite: None

This course has the same objectives as United States History ½, however, its breadth extends to pre-Columbian North America and provides an enriched and accelerated curriculum that is designed to prepare students for the United States History AP exam. A course grade of ‘C’ or higher earns an additional point towards GPA.

American Government 1/2, SDAIE SS, (CSU/UC “a”)

Grade Level Option: 12

Prerequisite: None

Length of Course: One Semester

In this course, students apply the knowledge gained in previous years of study to pursue a deeper understanding of the institutions of American government. In addition, they draw on their studies of American history and of other societies to compare the different systems of government in the world today. This course should be viewed as the culmination of the civic literacy strand that prepares students to vote, to reflect in the responsibilities of citizenship, and to participate in community activities. This course is taken back to back with Economics.

Economics 1/2, SDAIE SS, (CSU/UC “g”)

Grade Level Option: 12

Prerequisite: None

Length of Course: One Semester

In this one-semester course, students enrich their understanding of the economic problems and institutions of the nation and world in which they live. They learn to make decisions on economic issues as informed citizens and productive members of society. Students will build on their knowledge from previous grades and apply tools (such as graphs, statistics, and equations) learned in other subject areas to better understand and appreciate the complexity of our economic system. This course is taken back-to-back with American Government.

Macroeconomics AP SS, (CSU/UC “g”)

Grade Level Option: 12

Course: Year-long

Prerequisite: None

This yearlong course has the same objectives as Economics; however, it is an enriched and accelerated course that offers students the opportunity to do introductory college level work in Economics. This course prepares students for Economic AP exams in macro/micro economics. A course grade of ‘C’ or higher earns an additional point towards GPA.

American Government and Politics United States AP SS, (CSU/UC “g”)

Grade Level Option: 12

Prerequisite: None

This course has the same objectives as American Government civics; however, considerable emphasis is given to the understanding of political patterns and behaviors as well as the consequences of each. Students will analyze data and be able to interpret subject matter in writing. Essay exams and oral presentations are required. This is an enriched and accelerated course specifically designed to prepare students for the AP exam given nationwide in the spring. A course grade of ‘C’ or higher earns an additional point towards GPA. This course turns into Economics during the subsequent semester.

Psychology 1/2 SS, (CSU/UC “g”)

Grade Level Option: 11, 12

Prerequisite: None

Psychology 1/2 AP SS, (CSU/UC “g”)

Grade Level Option: 11, 12

Prerequisite: None

This elective course is in the area of Social Studies. The class provides a comprehensive study of Psychology with practical applications in the areas of learning, motivation, development, personality, abnormal psychology, intelligence, social psychology, biology, perception and sleep/dreams. This course prepares students for the AP exam in Psychology. A course grade of ‘C’ or higher earns an additional point towards GPA.