SOCIAL STUDIES
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AP |
Honors Pre-Ap World History & Geography | |||
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Non AP and Electives |
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_______________________________________________SUPPLIES______________________________________________
SOCIAL STUDIES DEPARTMENT COURSES (Regular, Pre-AP, and Advanced Placement)
__________________________________________COURSE DESCRIPTIONS_____________________________________
PREAP WORLD HISTORY & GEOGRAPHY
9 A & B
SSD166/SSD167
0.5 credit each
PreAP World History and Geography focuses deeply on the concepts and skills that have maximum value for high school, college, careers, and civic life. The course builds students’ essential skills and helps to prepare them for a range of AP history and social science coursework during high school. The course begins with a unit on Geography and World Regions, then continues with the study of Early Modern History (Renaissance to Land Based Empires), Modern History (Revolutions to World War I) and Contemporary History (World War I to the present). Primary and secondary sources take center stage in the classroom, and students use the tools of the historian and geographer to examine questions and build arguments.
No prerequisite.
_______ AP SOCIAL STUDIES ELECTIVES _______
AP HUMAN GEOGRAPHY
10 - 12 A & B
SSD360/SSD361
0.5 credit each
Prerequisites: None
Summer work: 1 Unit of Chapter Reading & Notes, Graphic Organizers
Average workload: 3-4 hours per week
This course is intended for students who are willing to work hard and are interested in world cultures, global issues, geography, sustainability, debates, and social justice. AP Human Geography introduces high school students to college-level introductory human geography or cultural geography. The content is presented thematically rather than regionally and is organized around the discipline’s main subfields: economic geography, cultural geography, political geography, and urban geography. The approach is spatial and problem oriented. Case studies are drawn from all world regions, with an emphasis on understanding the world in which we live today. Historical information serves to enrich analysis of the impacts of phenomena such as globalization, colonialism, and human–environment relationships on places, regions, cultural landscapes, and patterns of interaction. The goal for the course is for students to become more geoliterate, more engaged in contemporary global issues, and more informed about multicultural viewpoints. They will develop skills in approaching problems geographically, using maps and geospatial technologies, thinking critically about texts and graphic images, interpreting cultural landscapes, and applying geographic concepts such as scale, region, diffusion, interdependence, and spatial interaction, among others. Students will see geography as a discipline relevant to the world in which they live; as a source of ideas for identifying, clarifying, and solving problems at various scales; and as a key component of building global citizenship and environmental stewardship.
AP EUROPEAN HISTORY
11 - 12 A & B
SSD700/SSD701
0.5 credit each
Prerequisites: AP World History
Summer work: Up to 1 Unit of Reading & Note Taking
Average workload: 3-4 hours per week or reading and note-taking
This course is intended for those who have a strong interest in modern history, and want to understand the development of Europe and interaction with the world.
In AP European History, students investigate significant events, individuals, developments, and processes from approximately 1450 to the present. Students develop and use the same skills, practices, and methods employed by historians: analyzing primary and secondary sources; developing historical arguments; making historical connections; and utilizing reasoning about comparison, causation, and continuity and change over time. The course also provides seven themes that students explore throughout the course in order to make connections among historical developments in different times and places: interaction of Europe and the world, economic and commercial development, cultural and intellectual development, states and other institutions of power, social organization and development, national and European identity, and technological and scientific innovations.
Students must have taken AP World History.
AP MICROECONOMICS
11 - 12 A & B
SSD374/SSD375
0.5 credit each
Prerequisites: None
Summer work: Read Chapters 1 and 3 from Naked Economics, By Charlie Wheelan. Submit Cornell Notes for both chapters.
Average workload: 2-3 hours per week
This course is intended for students who wish to understand how human choice is mediated and influenced by social interaction.
The purpose of an AP course in microeconomics is to give students a thorough understanding of the principles of economics that apply to the functions of individual decision makers, both consumers and producers, within the economic system. It places primary emphasis on the nature and functions of product markets and includes the study of factor markets and of the role of government in promoting greater efficiency and equity in the economy. Economics is a unique social science in that it requires both significant math and logic skills. Students will be required to not only read independently, but participate in economic thinking activities, both in an accompanying workbook text as well as online using interactive lessons. Student participation on a regular basis is a requirement for success in this course as it is a sequential learning experience. It should be noted that sitting for the AP examination is a course requirement. This course is for students in grades 11 or 12 who have successfully passed Grade 10 math.
AP COMPARATIVE GOVERNMENT
11 - 12 A & B
SSD398/SSD399
0.5 credit each
Prerequisites: None, but AP World History is recommended
Summer work: A country analysis to get foundational information for each of our course countries and current events.
Average workload: Students are expected to do the readings given, analysis activities and keep up on current events in our six countries at the minimum.
This course is intended for students who like politics and government.
AP Comparative Government is a college level survey/ seminar in the study of the fundamental concepts used by political scientists to study the process and outcomes of politics in a variety of country settings. The course aims to illustrate the rich diversity of political life, to show available institutional alternatives, to explain differences in processes and policy outcomes, and to communicate to students the importance of global political and economic changes. Comparison assists both in identifying problems and analyzing policymaking. Careful comparison of political systems produces useful knowledge about the institutions and policies countries have employed to address problems, or, what they have done to make things worse. Furthermore, by comparing the political institutions and practices of wealthy and poor countries, we can begin to understand the political consequences of economic well-being. Finally, comparison assists explanation. Why are some countries stable democracies and other not? Six countries form the core of this course: China, Great Britain, Iran, Mexico, Nigeria and Russia. *excerpted from the course description provided by College Board.
AP ART HISTORY
10 - 12 A & B
FIN250/FIN251
0.5 credit each
Prerequisites: None
Summer work: None
Average workload: 3-4 hours per week
This course is intended for students who love art, history and humanities and for all students who want to study architecture, art or design.
The AP Art History course should engage students at the same level as a college art history survey course. Such a course involves critical thinking and students should develop understanding and knowledge of diverse historical and cultural contexts of art. In the course, students will examine and critically analyze major forms of artistic expression from the past and the present in a variety of cultures. The course covers art from the prehistoric period though postmodernism and is designed to provide students with the same material covered in an introductory college course in art history. Students will gain knowledge of architecture, sculpture, painting, and other art forms within diverse historical and cultural contexts. Students will examine and critically analyze major forms of artistic expression form the past and present and from a variety of European and non European cultures. While the course does not assume prior training or seek primarily to identify students who will major in art history in college, it does require a high degree of commitment to academic work and to the purposes of a program designed to meet college standards. Students who have done well in other courses in the humanities, such as history and literature, are specially encourage to enroll. The AP Art History course prepares students to take the AP Art History Exam. This course can count as 1.0 credit in Fine Arts or Social Studies.
________NON AP SOCIAL STUDIES ELECTIVES________
LATIN AMERICAN STUDIES 9
SSD704
0.5 credit
Latin American Studies is a semester course designed to develop a sense of understanding over the cultures and histories of Latin American peoples through vocabulary building, test taking, essay writing, and note taking. You will study a wide range of topics, have discussions regarding complex concepts such as Capitalism and Socialism, Gender equality, racial relationships, poverty as violence and many more. Students will be assessed through a number of Document Based Question (DBQ) essays, verbal projects, class participation, exams, and much outlining. The course is thematically divided evenly around five themes (social structures, political institutions, interactions between humans and the environment, cultural trends, and economic systems) in order to keep consistency as the students jump from one empire/continent to the next. The course expectations include an average reading of 10 pages per week, occasional homework assignments, formative assessments every 2 classes and 1 summative per unit. Students are meant to explore 3 main historical themes throughout the course; interaction between cultures and syncretism, economic impact of international policies, and the effects of globalisation on developing societies.
No prerequisite.
GENERAL ECONOMICS
SSD330
0.5 credit
This economics elective is a half year look at some of the most important, and exciting parts of both micro and macro economics. The class focuses on four separate units.The basics of economics goes into depth regarding scarcity and how we as economists can make decisions using available information. The second unit, personal finance, takes a micro look at how taxes, investments, inflation and other economic variables can affect individuals. The third unit focuses on how to use data. In this unit we focus on the question, what is wealth and who is really wealthy? By collecting and processing large amounts of data students can come to many conclusions. Lastly we study marginal analysis which allows us to calculate profits and costs. The goal for this course is three fold. The first goal is to empower students who do not take other economics courses to have usable knowledge they can apply to their own lives. The second goal is to challenge students to think about the flaws we have in our societies and allow them to use economic thinking to hypothesize solutions. Lastly, this class is designed to promote critical thinking skills and a methodology for analyzing our world in a meaningful and useful way.
No prerequisite.
HONORS PREAP WORLD HISTORY & GEOGRAPHY
9 A & B
SSD168/SSD169
0.5 credit each
Honors PreAP World History and Geography focuses deeply on the concepts and skills that have maximum value for high school, college, careers, and civic life. The course moves at a faster pace and builds students’ essential skills and helps to prepare them for a range of AP history and social science coursework during high school. The course begins with a unit on Geography and World Regions, then continues with the study of Early Modern History (Renaissance to Land-Based Empires), Modern History (Revolutions to World War I) and Contemporary History (World War I to the present). Primary and secondary sources take center stage in the classroom, and students use the tools of the historian and geographer to examine questions and build arguments. The honors course may include independent projects to be given at the discretion of the teacher. It also requires a high level of commitment and effort.
_______ AP SOCIAL STUDIES ELECTIVES _______
AP WORLD HISTORY
10 - 12 A & B
SSD400/SSD401
0.5 credit each
Prerequisites: Pre-AP Modern World History or Modern World History
Summer work: 1 Unit of Chapter Reading & Notes, Graphic Organizers
Average workload: 3-4 hours per week
This course is intended for students who want to survey global history.
This course at CNG is designed for highly motivated college-bound students who have demonstrated academic achievement, higher order thinking skills, and the ability to work independently. The course covers all periods of world history with emphasis on political, economic, cultural, and social history from the time of the first civilizations through the modern era. Students will read and write extensively throughout the course. The course relies heavily on college-level texts, primary sources, and outside readings. A special emphasis will be given to historical writing through essay and document-based questions (DBQ). The course will help students to develop certain “Habits of Mind” as identified by the College Board to aid in the study of history. Students must quickly become accustomed to presenting clear, concise, relevant and well-substantiated arguments in their written assignments, as well as in class discussions. Due to the enormous amount of information to be covered between August and May, the class will be moving at fast rate. Most class meetings will be in lecture format. Any topics not covered in class due to time constraints or other extenuating circumstances will be the students’ responsibility. The Six AP World History Themes include: The relationship of change and continuity from 8,000 BCE to the present; Impact of interaction among and within major societies; Impact of technology, economics, and demography on people and the environment; Systems of social structure and gender structure; Cultural, religious, and intellectual developments; Changes in functions and structures of states and in attitudes toward states and political identities, including the emergence of the nation- state. It should be noted that sitting for the AP examination is a course requirement.
AP PSYCHOLOGY
11 - 12 A & B
SSD380/SSD381 0.5 credit each
Prerequisites: None
Summer work: Yes- an overview of the topics
Average workload: There should be reading/notes/ flashcards every night - as well as any activities that are not completed in class.
This course is intended for students who have an interest in psychology and human behavior.
AP Psychology is a course that introduces students to the systematic and scientific study of human behavior and mental processes. While considering the studies that have shaped the field, students explore and apply psychological theories, key concepts, and phenomena associated with major units of study, including biological bases of behavior, cognition, development, learning, social psychology, personality, and mental and physical health. Throughout the course, students apply psychological concepts and employ psychological research methods and data interpretation to evaluate claims, consider evidence, and effectively communicate ideas. This course is the equivalent to an introductory, college-level psychology course. No prerequisites are required to take this class.
* Taken from the AP Central Course Description for the 2024-25 year
AP MACROECONOMICS
12 A & B
SSD370/SSD371
0.5 credit each
Prerequisites: AP Microeconomics
Summer work: 2 Units of Chapter Reading & Notes, Graphic Organizers
Average workload: 2-3 hours per week
This course is intended for students who wish to understand human choice, government and institutional interaction in the aggregate level.
As our world becomes more interconnected through technological advances, an awareness of basic economic theory becomes imperative for the active citizen. Consumers and producers, as well as national economies, rely on economic information for their decision making. Students will gain a rounded understanding of the principals of macro-economics and how they apply in the reality of today’s globalized environment. The course places emphasis on providing a diverse and solid foundation in all principal aspects of economic thinking and analysis, and integrates an advanced study of Latin American and Colombian Case Studies. The course provides an essential theoretical and analytical background for any student considering business, economic, or financial studies. Students will also learn the basic analytical tools of macroeconomics primarily the aggregate demand and aggregate supply model and its application in the analysis and determination of national income, as well as evaluating the effectiveness of fiscal policy and monetary policy in promoting economic growth and stability. Recognizing the global nature of economics, students will also have ample opportunities to examine the impact of international trade and international finance on national economies. Various economic schools of thought are introduced as solutions to economic problems are considered. Economics is a unique social science in that it requires both significant math and logic skills. Students will be required to not only read independently, but participate in economic thinking activities, both in an accompanying workbook text as well as online using interactive lessons. Student participation on a regular basis is a requirement for success in this course as it is a sequential learning experience. It should be noted that sitting for the AP examination is a course requirement. This course is for students in grades 12 who have successfully passed Grade 11 math.
AP UNITED STATES HISTORY
10 - 12 A & B
SSD390/SSD391
0.5 credit each
Prerequisites: None
Summer work: 1 Unit of Chapter Reading & Notes, Graphic Organizers
Average workload: 3-4 hours per week
This course is intended for students who are curious about the development of the US, and want to understand the present by investigating the past.
AP United States History is a college level course offered to high school students at Colegio Nueva Granada in accordance with the audit requirements of The College Board. The course is an intensive academic program that covers historical material from the colonization period to Present Day 20th Century history. The course challenges students at an accelerated pace to read and master historical knowledge in order to be able to analyze primary documents, and to write detailed and specific historical essays. This is a very demanding course that requires a great deal of effort and personal responsibility and independent study. This course is offered to all willing 10th, 11th and 12th grade students who can maintain the academic requirements of the course, who possess a keen interest in the subject area and who have the tenacity to accept a rigorous academic challenge. A formal standardized exam is taken in May and upon successful completion of this exam students may receive university credit from various universities based on their level of performance. The criteria for AP U.S. History includes:
It should be noted that sitting for the AP examination is a course requirement. This course satisfies the grade 11 or 12 U.S. History requirement for a high school diploma.
AP AFRICAN AMERICAN STUDIES
10th - 12th grades
AP African American Studies
AP African American Studies is an exciting, interdisciplinary course that draws from a variety of fields—history, literature, the arts, geography, science, and law—to explore the vital contributions and experiences of African Americans. In AP African American Studies, students explore key topics that extend from early African kingdoms to the ongoing challenges and achievements of the contemporary moment. Beginning in ancestral Africa and progressing through Afrofuturism, students will explore:
· The origins of the African diaspora
· Freedom, enslavement, and resistance
· The practice of freedom
· Movements and debates
Given the interdisciplinary character of African American Studies, students in the course will develop skills across multiple fields, with an emphasis on developing historical, literary, visual, and data analysis skills.
________NON AP SOCIAL STUDIES ELECTIVES________
PROJECT GREEN CHALLENGE
9 - 12
SSD706
0.5 credit each
Are you passionate about sustainability, the environment, and social issues? Do you want to learn the latest, most relevant ways to be the change you want to see in the world? Do you want to work in teams, have fun, get out of the classroom, have guest speakers, and be part of a global movement? This semester course is centered on the powerful 30 day Project Green Challenge in October (Sem 1) or April (Sem 2). We will participate in this challenge in teams and have the possibility to go to the finals in San Francisco, CA! CNG has already sent multiple students to the finals. Project Green Challenge will inform, inspire and mobilize high school, college, and grad students worldwide. This powerful and diverse call to action features 30 days of environmentally–themed challenges to touch lives, shift mindsets, and equip students with knowledge, resources and mentorship to lead change on campuses and in communities. Through conscious living, informed consumption, and individual and collective action, Project Green Challenge (PGC) participants are challenged to envision and work toward the healthy, just, and resilient future they want to thrive in.
This course can count as ½ credit in Social Studies or Cultural Studies.
No prerequisite.
GENERAL PSYCHOLOGY
9 - 12
SSD310
0.5 credit
Psychology is a diverse mix of students of all HS grades levels and abilities and only a semester long course. Based upon these variables, the course and units and assessments are designed to a reasonable level for a 10th grade student, emphasizing psychology in their everyday life. Psychology, the scientific study of human and animal behavior and mental processes, is designed to help the student develop skills and understanding of themselves and others in our complex society. Topics covered include, but are not limited to: the history of psychology, experimentation and analysis, personality, life stages (Childhood, Adolescence, and Early/Middle/Late Adulthood). Throughout the year, reading, essay writing, class discussion, collaborative group work, verbal presentations and critical thinking skills will be developed.
No prerequisites.
INTRO TO ENTREPRENEURSHIP WITH SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY A&B
12th Grade Only
0.5 credit each semester
Prerequisites: AP Microeconomics (3.5 or above) and completed letter of intent
Summer work: None
Average workload: 2-3 hours per week
Entrepreneurship is a college-level course offered in partnership with Syracuse University that is intended to provide grade 12 students with a solid foundation in terms of the vital role played by entrepreneurs and entrepreneurship in the 21 st century global economy. During this semester, we will assess, explore, critique, and celebrate the phenomenon of entrepreneurship. Entrepreneurship is approached as a way of thinking and acting, as an attitude and a behavior. Our emphasis is on entrepreneurship as a manageable process that can be applied in virtually any organizational setting. Moreover, our interest is in sustainable entrepreneurship, or entrepreneurship over the life cycles of people’s careers, of organizations as they evolve from start-up enterprise to sizable corporation, and of societies as they move from undeveloped to post-industrial. Our principal focus will be on the creation of new ventures, the ways that they come into being, and factors associated with their success. This is a course of many ideas and questions, and you will be encouraged to develop and defend your own set of conclusions regarding each of these issues. It is also a course that integrates a number of different disciplines, ranging from sociology and psychology to economics, finance, marketing, and human resource management. However, the main focus will be on Macroeconomics and the impacts of world events on developing enterprises. Further, it is a course that mixes theory with practice, and you will be challenged to apply principles, concepts and frameworks to real world situations. Students interested in acquiring credit through Syracuse University will be required to pay the fee of $115 per credit.
Prerequisite: Senior (Class of 2025), AP Microeconomics (3.5 or above) and completed letter of intent