Social Studies

This course is an introduction to the structure of the government of the United States and the political processes that are critical to the functioning of our Constitutional Republic. This course surveys the structure and functions of the US national government, our core democratic values, and Constitutional principles: the foundation of the American political system. Students study the three branches of the federal government, civil liberties and rights, the role of political behavior in the democratic process, rules governing political parties, campaigns and elections, political culture, and citizenship responsibilities. The curriculum emphasizes the development of critical thinking skills and addresses the significant role of active citizenship in every aspect of our political system. Students are encouraged to think deeply about complex topics, develop individual study skills, prepare for each class session, and are expected to fully participate in technology enhanced instruction and cooperative learning activities. Students must appropriately collaborate with other students to responsibly share thoughts and ideas in order to help each other understand diverse perspectives and to promote a supportive and productive learning environment. This course will emphasize our Catholic values as a solid foundation for fulfilling personal citizenship responsibilities. 

This course provides the foundation for student understanding about human civilizations and their early development to the beginning of the modern era. The essential questions and thematic threads of this course will address the relationships between humans and their interaction with the environment, their interaction with other humans, and how human views of the world, nature, and their Creator has changed over time. It is important that the students gain an understanding of, and an appreciation for the development, experiences, and perspectives of other regions and cultures as they learn to become responsible citizens consistent with their Catholic values and prepare to live their Faith as adults.

The Advanced Placement course in United States Government and Politics is designed to give students a critical perspective on politics and government. This course involves both the study of general concepts used to interpret United States politics and the analysis of specific case studies. It also requires familiarity with the various institutions, groups, beliefs, and ideas that make up the American political reality. At the conclusion of the course, students will have the opportunity to take the Advanced Placement Examination in the hopes of receiving college credit.