History and Social Studies

World History
Grade 9
1 credit
World History serves as an introduction to the Upper School history program. Students explore a major theme in each quarter and follow a broad chronological approach. Themes studied include creation-religion-ethics/philosophy to 500 BCE, empire and leadership from 500 BCE to 600 CE, commerce-trade-technology over the period 600 to 1750 ending with the emergence of new systems of global trade. In the ninth-grade year, teachers emphasize the development of skills needed for successful work in upper level history. Students learn these skills in conjunction with the ninth-grade world literature classes and include note-taking, analytical writing, research, critical evaluation of primary and secondary sources, effective academic discussion and presentation, as well as continual development of the study skills and strategies needed to be a successful history student. Students write a number of papers and begin work with document-based questions.

World History–Honors*
Grade 9
1 credit
Why do some empires prosper and others collapse? What are the common ideas of the world's religions? How does trade connect distant parts of the world? World History–Honors is an intensive discussion, reading, and writing course intended for highly motivated students who are capable of meeting the higher expectations of an accelerated curriculum. This course is an introduction to the Upper School history program and provides a thematic survey of history with an emphasis on mastering essential skills. Students apply these skills to the critical reading of primary and secondary sources, significant writing assignments, and learning through academic discussion. The course of study focuses on the following themes:

Theme One: Foundations of Early Civilizations
Theme Two: Empire and Leadership in the Ancient World
Theme Three: The Creation of a Global Economy

*Prerequisite: Permission of the department and successful completion of a placement exercise

United States History
Grade 10
1 credit
Who or what is an American?  What is the role of government in Americans’ lives? How does the United States interact with the world community? How have the answers to these questions changed over time? These are just a few of the questions students explore in this survey course of U.S. History, which covers key events from the creation and significance of the U.S. Constitution through the modern era. Students examine foundational themes while developing sharper analytical and critical thinking skills through primary and secondary source evaluation, project-based learning, research and writing, hands-on activities, and class discussions.  Among other requirements, students write multiple document-based essays, and the course culminates with a research paper. 

United States History–Honors*
Grade 10
1 credit
Who or what is an American? What is the role of government in Americans’ lives? How does the United States interact with the world community? How have the answers to these questions changed over time? These are just a few of the questions students explore in this intensive reading and writing survey course of U.S. History, which covers key events from the creation and significance of the U.S. Constitution through the modern era. Students examine foundational themes while developing sharper analytical and critical thinking skills through primary and secondary source evaluation, project-based learning, research and writing, hands-on activities, and class discussions. Among other requirements, students write multiple document-based essays and complete AP-style exams; the course culminates with a research paper.
*Prerequisite: Permission of the department and, if not enrolled in World History–Honors, successful completion of a placement exercise

AP Modern European History*
Grades 11–12
1 credit
How did Europe emerge from a period of political chaos, religious crisis, and demographic collapse to become the focal point of a scientific and industrial revolution? How did the expansion of European economic and political influence affect people around the globe? In this college-level course, high-achieving juniors and seniors gain knowledge of the basic chronology of major events and trends from approximately 1450 to the present to form an understanding of some of the principal themes in modern European history. They also develop an ability to analyze historical evidence and express what they have learned in writing. Students conduct research and strengthen their understanding of primary and secondary source material as part of their coursework. There are extensive opportunities to work with document-based questions.
*Prerequisite: Permission of the department and, if not enrolled in United States History–Honors, successful completion of a placement exercise

AP United States History*
Grades 11-12
1 credit
How do U.S. historians come to understand the past? What skills and tools are necessary to become a U.S. historian? This college-level course is designed for high-achieving juniors who have a sincere interest in United States history and possess strong historical reading and writing skills. Designed to teach students to think critically about the people, events, and developments in the United States, the Advanced Placement U.S. History course emphasizes the historical thinking skills that are valued by colleges and universities as central to studying history. Through regular exercises in critical writing, primary and secondary source interpretation, and seminar discussion sessions, students learn how to support historical arguments with relevant factual information. Preparation for the national AP exam in May is also emphasized.
*Prerequisite: Permission of the department and, if not enrolled in United States History–Honors, successful completion of a placement exercise

East Asian History
Grade 11
.5 credit
How did the ancient cultures of East Asia confront the challenges of industrial and political revolutions? Why was the arrival of western nations so disruptive to long-established ideas and patterns of life within East Asian societies? This course introduces juniors to the history of China, Japan, and other East Asian nations while investigating the different ways East Asian cultures have responded to, and exerted influence over, the challenges of imperialism and globalization. Assessments include critical reading and writing, analysis and interpretation of primary and secondary sources, collaborative work, seminar discussions, and student presentations of research.
Offered fall semester

Global Studies*
Grade 11
.5 credit
Global Studies Seminar is the gateway course to the Global Studies Certificate Program and familiarizes students with the outcomes of the program. Students examine topical global stories through human rights and globalization frameworks, explore how cultural perspectives shape our understanding, and examine the fundamental social systems that undergird intercultural interactions. Course readings include primary and secondary texts. The course culminates in projects that prepare students to meet the objectives of the Global Studies program, including an independent presentation in which each student defines and addresses a global problem of their choice.
Offered fall and spring semesters
*Prerequisite: Successful application to the Global Studies Certificate Program

Middle Eastern History
Grade 11
.5 credit
Why has the Middle East been in turmoil for generations? What responsibility, if any, do other nations have in securing peace and promoting humanitarianism in that region? Why is establishing stability in that region important geopolitically? For decades, the world has been asking these questions, and understandably so. Many nations have vested interests in the Middle East, which have led to political, economic, and military entanglements. Students examine the history of those involvements with the Middle East through the lens of contemporary issues and events in the region. They also explore how policy decisions related to the region have an impact on nations around the world. Development of historical thinking skills, geographic proficiency, and research are primary to this research-based course.
Offered fall semester

Latin American Colonial History
Grade 11
.5 credit
How did pre-Columbian cultures develop in the Valley of Mexico and the Andes Mountains? What were the consequences of European contact, and how did Latin American cultures emerge from the turbulent collision of different worlds? Students explore the history of Mexico, Peru, Colombia, and Venezuela while developing the main themes of the course, including relationships among Indians, Africans, and Europeans within stories of conquest, resistance, and the emergence of new Latin American societies. The curriculum includes critical reading and writing, analysis of primary and secondary sources, student-led discussion, and collaboration as well as presentation of research.
Offered fall semester

The American Dream and African America
Grade 11 
.5 credits
What happens to a dream deferred? This semester-long history elective will survey the public debate within African American communities about the relationship between the United States and Black America, from 1800 to the present. As such, the course will build on students’ prior understanding of the major periods of American history and add to that an understanding of the diversity of thought within the Black community, especially how recurrent expressions of black nationalism challenged African Americans’ commitments to join mainstream American culture. Even as movements to create an actual state declined after the Garvey movement of the 1920’s, calls for racial pride, economic self-sufficiency, and separatism have endured in movements like the Nation of Islam, Black Power, and beyond. Teasing these expressions out of contemporary American culture will conclude the course.
Offered spring semester

Modern American History and Art: Context and Creation*
Grade 11
.5 credit
Where do artists find inspiration for their work? How does the work of artists reflect the culture and society in which it was created? This course explores United States history and American experience through the lens of visual art. Students encounter the unique expression of U.S. politics, ideology, and social and technological change conveyed from a variety of notable artists. Students develop visual and interpretive literacy as they create their own artwork that reflects the themes and styles of these artists, produce sketchbook discoveries, deliver describe-interpret-evaluate speeches, and write short papers. Close reading of excerpts from various primary and secondary documents provide historical context for each image. A field trip to a local art museum or similar experience is planned.
Offered spring semester
*Prerequisite: Successful completion of any Arts Department course
*Successful completion of this course also garners Arts credit

Radical Change in the Postwar Era
Grade 11
.5 credit
Why did the Post-WWII Era bring about so much social change? How do historians understand the causes and effects of the emerging liberalism that shifted many of  the nation’s policies on social justice at this time? The second half of the twentieth century was a critical turning point in United States history. America emerged from World War II as one of the two superpowers in the world. The American economy grew exponentially, and the quality of life for many was the strongest in human history. From the outside looking in, America was the envy of the world. In reality, however, as the twentieth century progressed, the United States experienced social, political, and economic turmoil that would change the fabric of the nation forever. By examining the Postwar Era, this research-based course explores how the United States evolved from 1945 to 1980 and the changes it experienced through peaceful and, at times, not so peaceful developments. Assessments include critical reading and writing; analysis and interpretation of primary and secondary sources, including monographs and films; seminar discussions; and student presentations of research. Emphasis is also placed on connections between contemporary issues and this pivotal time in American history.
Offered spring semester

Thesis Seminar–Honors*
Grades 11-12
.5 credit
Have you ever wanted to study world history or United States history at a deeper level? This course is designed for juniors and seniors who are strong writers, passionate about history, and wish to further their interests at a high academic level. Students will have the opportunity to research a topic of their choosing with faculty approval, and write a college-level history research paper. Course work will include instruction in generating a functional research question, advanced historical research methodology, source evaluation, time management, and preparation for benchmarks. Students will work with faculty advisors, participate in a peer-led seminar-style review of their work, and develop strong editing skills. Final drafts of the research paper will be submitted to a history journal to be considered for publication.
Offered fall and spring semesters
*Prerequisite: Permission of the department

AP United States Government and Politics*
Grade 12
1 credit
What has happened to the original vision of the framers of the U.S. Constitution? In modern America, how do the three branches "check and balance" each other? What role has the U.S. Supreme Court had in changing how our elections are run? AP United States Government and Politics provides high-achieving seniors with a college-level perspective on government and politics in the United States. The course includes the study of the constitutional underpinnings of our government; the structure, relations, and operations of the government’s three branches; and the relationship between media, public opinion, and lobbyists in the formation of public policy. Students learn about current events and form clear views on contemporary politics. Through regular exercises in critical writing, primary and secondary source interpretation, and seminar discussion sessions, students learn how to support their arguments with relevant factual information. Preparation for the national AP exam in May is also emphasized. 
*Prerequisite: Permission of the department and, if not enrolled in a previous AP history course, successful completion of a placement exercise

Economics*
Grade 12
1 credit
Is there really no such thing as a free lunch? Why do economists say that if you want something done correctly, you shouldn’t necessarily do it for yourself? Seniors who enroll in this course should be adept with mathematics and possess secure graphing and analytical skills. This course is designed to expose students to the specialized vocabulary and basic concepts of microeconomics and macroeconomics while training them to look at the world through the eyes of an economist. After a brief review of scarcity, opportunity cost, and supply and demand, students learn about the more advanced topics of the American free market system and the various types of market structures that exist within it. The various ways in which businesses can be organized and the roles of wages and labor in pricing and public policy are also covered. In the spring, the class covers the macroeconomic challenges of unemployment and inflation, and advanced principles such as monetary and fiscal policy, and international payments and trade. In both semesters, students engage in mathematical calculations. They also create and interpret a variety of different graphical models and apply them to the process of economic analysis. Students are expected to work independently and take initiative. Upon completion of this course, students should be able to complete a college-level macroeconomics course with greater facility.
*Prerequisite: Algebra II

AP Economics*
Grade 12
1 credit
Is there really no such thing as a free lunch? Why do economists say that if you want something done correctly, you shouldn’t necessarily do it for yourself? AP Economics is a fast-paced, college-level course designed to introduce highly motivated, highly independent, and academically talented seniors to economic analysis. The first semester is devoted to the basic principles of microeconomics, such as cost structure, the theory of the firm, factor markets, and the role of government within the economy. During the second semester, students learn to analyze the intricacies of the aggregate economy. The models used examine national income, employment, and price levels, and explore how stabilization policies (fiscal and monetary) affect economic growth in an integrated world economy. Analysis includes the impact of financial and trade interactions between nations. A unit on different macroeconomic models completes the curriculum. Preparation for the national AP exams in May is also emphasized. Students will sit for two AP exams in the spring: one for AP Microeconomics, and the other for AP Macroeconomics.
*Prerequisite: Permission of the department and, if not enrolled in a previous AP history course, successful completion of a placement exercise
*Corequisite: Calculus

Civil Rights and Liberties
Grade 12
.5 credit
Do you trust the government? In 1775, Ben Franklin was quoted as saying, “They who can give up essential liberty to obtain a little temporary safety, deserve neither liberty nor safety.” Franklin’s quotation pinpoints the exact nature of conflict between governments and the consent of the governed. Citizens look to their governments to provide safety and security, but also to protect essential freedoms; this seminar explores the history where those two institutions have been in conflict. The course may include both American and global topics. Assessments include critical reading and essay writing, document interpretation, independent critical thinking, the research process, peer collaboration, seminar discussions, and the use of oral/visual presentations.
Offered fall and spring semesters

Human Geography  
Grade 12
.5 credit
The interconnected world requires, and at times, demands that people build an understanding of and empathy for people and cultures. In light of this, it is critical to attempt to comprehend global developments and their impact on local situations. Two themes emerge that require examination—globalization and cultural diversity. Human Geography will focus on the relationship between people, place, and environment through the lens of these themes. Students will explore how geography shapes human culture and society, as well as how humans shape physical geography. They will also examine human interaction, cultural development, economic systems, and political circumstances through the use of geographic tools. Contemporary developments will also play a complementary role in this course as we place our studies into a “real-life” context.
Offered fall semester

International Politics
Grade 12
.5 credit
What are the rules for how nations behave on the global stage? What are the implications of the superpower status of the United States? How is the international community responding to the most pressing modern issues? This course is designed to introduce students to the international political system, with an overall goal of encouraging students to think as global citizens. Students will develop a framework for understanding current issues like fighting terror networks, addressing global warming, the challenge of immigration, and the shifting rivalries between nations. The first topic is an introduction to the “players on the world stage” from corporations to philanthropists like Bill and Melinda Gates, which is followed by a discussion of the strengths and weaknesses of the United Nations. Students will explore American foreign policy creation and options, in addition to an overview of international law and the movement toward global human rights standards. Through discussion, readings, research, guest speakers, role-playing, and debates, students develop their own views on the most pressing issues of our times.
Offered spring semester

Comparative Politics: The United States and the World
Grade 12
.5 credit
How do historians look at American history and government from a global context? What similarities and differences does the U.S. constitutional republic model of government have with European parliamentary systems? How does America address social issues comparatively with other nations? What are the global implications of U.S. power, and what impact does this have on the nation itself? This course is designed to expand students’ perspectives on the United States and its history. Students develop a framework for understanding America in a global context from a range of perspectives. The first topic looks at critical eras in U.S. history from a global view. Students then explore the main institutions of American government comparatively, followed by a discussion of controversial social issues. The last unit explores America’s status as a superpower, looking at its historical roots and current implications. The main format of the class is student-led seminars, with students preparing discussion-based lessons for their classmates. This will also be a project-based class with an emphasis on persuasive essays.
Offered fall semester

Public History: Interpreting School History
Grade 12
.5 credit
How do we define public history? This course is designed to build on students’ previously acquired historical research skills of finding, interpreting, and evaluating primary sources in order to engage the public with historical narratives. Students explore how archival materials and objects convey meaning both on their own and, more important, as part of a larger collection. Using the School’s archives and collections, students are able to put their academic knowledge of primary-source research skills to work as they gather data and evidence from letters, ledgers, notes, memos, photographs, and other historical documents.  The outcome is student-created materials to encourage visitor engagement and enrich the larger community’s experience of The Pennington School’s Archives and Special Collections.
Offered fall semester

Public History: Exhibiting School History
Grade 12
.5 credit
How is public history used? This course is designed to build on students’ previously acquired historical research skills of finding, interpreting, and evaluating primary sources in order to engage the public with historical narratives. Using materials and objects found in The Pennington School’s Archives and Special Collections, students are able to put to use their academic knowledge of primary-source research skills as they develop the content for an exhibition on campus. Students learn the fundamentals of exhibit design: developing an argument about a topic, writing interpretive text, and interpreting archival materials and objects. The outcome is the design and display of visual and written information for a School-wide event such as Alumni Weekend.
Offered spring semester

Sociology and Sports
Grade 12
.5 Credit
What is sociology, and how can the study of this discipline help us understand who we are?  Can a cultural activity like sports help us understand how we interact with each other beyond mere competition? How can we critically evaluate history through a sociological lens using sports as a cultural artifact? In 2009, ESPN Films launched the Emmy Award–winning documentary series 30 for 30, based around sports topics, focusing on much larger global issues and their impact on society. These in-depth films show how sports are a reflection of humankind. Accomplished filmmakers from around the world have covered a wide array of topics including historical periods and events such as the Vietnam War, apartheid in South Africa, and the rise of Fidel Castro in Cuba. Students explore topics such as the evolution of the athletic shoe industry, its effect on college and professional athletes, and its impact on the economy. The examination of social issues, such as urban violence on the streets of Chicago, racial tensions in the South, and varying experiences of college athletes who play on the same team, has been central to the documentary series as well. Students engage in dialogue and research, applying different sociological models and theories to a different film each week, exploring related topics and other aspects that may not be readily discussed in the viewing. Students think and write critically about sociological theory, topics, and the impacts addressed.
Offered spring semester

Organizational Behavior
Grade 12
.5 Credit
How can the principles of human behavior be applied to organizations and groups? How can the academic frameworks used in sociology, psychology, and anthropology help organizations function more efficiently? How are leadership skills developed? What can be done to motivate individuals? Organizational behavior is a field concerned with using principles and practices from a variety of academic disciplines to understand how groups and individuals function in an organization, and to help people work together successfully and efficiently. This social science course will focus on behavior at the individual, interpersonal, and organizational levels incorporating elements of anthropology, sociology, and social psychology. Students will study the history and modern application of organizational theory and practices, and explore the inputs and elements that contribute to the functioning of a successful organization.
Offered spring semester