Social Studies/Foreign Language Department
Mr. Edward Alvarez, Assistant Principal
The Social Studies department strives to prepare its students with the skills to think critically and thoughtfully. This enables students to better function in a complex, diverse, and technologically changing and advancing world. The department is dedicated to the student body as evidenced by the many hours they spend with their students in tutoring and extra-curricular activities. The department offers Advanced Placement courses in United States History, and Government. The department Regents results are impressive with passing results of 90 and greater.
Exemplary Programs
Lincoln-Douglas Debates
Theodore Roosevelt Speaking Contest
Fed Challenge Multicultural Festival
Course Offerings
Ninth Grade
Global Studies and Geography 1 & 2 (H$1 & H$2)
This is the first of a two year sequence in Global History and Geography. The course is a comprehensive chronological study of major historical eras and civilizations through 1750. Topics covered include the religious, social, political, economic, and technological developments that occurred during these eras. There is special attention directed at improving students' writing, reading, and visual skills.
Tenth Grade
Global History and Geography 3 & 4 (H$3 & H$4)
This course continues the study of
historical eras and civilizations from 1750 to the present. Students will also study the
interdependence of these civilizations and their effects on the world and on them. Further
development and improvement of skills will be emphasized. The course culminates in a Global
History and Geography Regents Examination that covers all of the Global History and
Geography courses.
Honors courses are available. Prerequisite: 91% average in Global History 2
Eleventh Grade
United States History 1 (H$5)
This course investigates the first cultures of America, its
rediscovery, conquest, colonization, foundations for government of the United States, formation
and implementation of the Constitution through the Civil War period and Reconstruction.
Students will gain an understanding of the constitutional basis for our government and history
during our nation's early years, as well as an appreciation for the democratic values that we are.
Honors courses are available. Prerequisite: 91% average in Global History 4
United States History 2 (H$6)
This course investigates the growth of the United States from
an isolated agricultural society to a modern industrial world power. We also study the rise of
American business, the role that government had on reforms, prosperity, depression wars, and
foreign policy. The course also demonstrates America's role with the world and technology.
Twelve Grade
Participation in Government (H$7)
This course begins with the basic elements or foundations
of the primary principles of democracy. Students will review the Constitution and the principles
that it includes. Throughout the course students will study the major Supreme Court decisions
that have affected society. The course ends with the United States and Government Regents
Examination in January.
Honors courses are available. Prerequisite: 91% average in United States History 2.
Economics (H$8) This course teaches the basic principles of the American economic system.
These principles include capitalism and free enterprise and the roles of the consumer, business,
and the government. Students learn life skills of money management, including banking, credit,
insurance, taxes, investing, and budgeting.
Honors courses are available. Prerequisite: 91% average in Participation in Government.
Advanced Placement
AP (Advanced Placement) United States History (H5X), 11th Grade
This course is an in depth
examination of American History from the beginning of the age of exploration, and
leading up to the present. Special attention is paid to historical interpretation of important
concepts and events through the use of documents and readings.
Prerequisite: Department Approval
AP (Advanced Placement) Government (H7X), 12th Grade
This is an in-depth course that
studies the Constitution, political beliefs, political parties, public policy, special interest groups,
and civil rights.
Prerequisite: Department Approval
Spanish
Spanish 1 & 2 (FS1 & FS2)
Students are introduced to the important skills that are necessary to
comprehend the Spanish language. These skills include verbal, reading, writing, and
comprehension. Students are also exposed to the many diverse cultures of the Spanish speaking
world.
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