a. Citizenship:  During the 9th grade, students receive a fundamental survival course in how our democracy functions, incorporating local, state, and national history, a knowledge of the structure and function of the American system of government, the roles and responsibilities of citizen participation in the political process, and the relationship of the individual to the law and legal system.  A second part of the course focuses on the World Geography, examining the major regions of the world, the five themes of geography, and an introduction to map making and reading.

b. U.S. History:  During the 10th grade, students take a survey course in U.S. History from the cultures of pre-European Native Americans to the present time.  The course examines and emphasizes the political, cultural, and social history of the United States, analyzing the various historical themes which were fundamental to the development of the country into a world power.

c. World History:  During the 11th grade, students broaden their historical knowledge by examining the development of world cultures, religions, and civilizations.  Beginning with ancient civilizations, the student traces the eventual emergence of modern nation-states through trade/communications, intellectual development, scientific and technological development, and conflict.

d.  Economic/Advanced Government:  During a student's senior year, a two-part course is required which gives first an overview of the fundamentals of micro- and macro-economics.  The second part of the course builds on the knowledge and skills acquired in the 9th grade Citizenship course and the 10th grade U.S. History course, focusing on aspects of the American political system.

Electives 
The Social Studies Department offers a variety of electives, which allow students to broaden their knowledge base in a number of areas.

a. Africana:  Focuses on the geography, culture, and economic development of Africa, the role of the African Americans in American history, and the accomplishments of the African American in our society.

b. Current Issues:  Analyzes current political, economic, and social issues-their historical background, development, and impact on modern society.  This course integrates and reinforces social studies skills from other core social studies courses.

c. Local Studies (History of the South):  Surveys the history of the American South from early prehistoric time to the present, with emphasis on local and state history.  Primary and secondary source material in journals will help the student develop research and analytical skills necessary in writing historical papers and developing historical projects.

Social Studies Activities:  In addition to the core and elective courses offered above, the Social Studies Department sponsors numerous activities which allow students to utilize and further develop their knowledge and skills.  The department hosts a Social Studies Fair annually, and takes and active role in the school district's Model UN program.  Numerous essay, speaking, and historical paper contests are offered throughout the year as well.
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