Social Studies and History

7th Grade Social Studies explores the complex relationships between humans and the environment, the development and interactions of cultures, and the evolution of societies across time and place. Students will examine state-building and conflict, economic systems, and social structures to better understand how historical and geographic factors shape civilizations. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking, analysis of historical sources, and making connections between past and present global issues.

7th Grade Advanced Social Studies is a rigorous course designed for students seeking deeper analysis of historical and geographic concepts. The course emphasizes close observation, critical analysis, higher-order questioning, and evidence-based academic writing. Students will explore connections between humans and the environment, the development and interactions of cultures, state-building and conflict, economic systems, and social structures across time and place. Through inquiry-based learning and analysis of primary and secondary sources, students will strengthen their reasoning, writing, and communication skills while developing a deeper understanding of global societies.

8th Grade Social Studies provides an in-depth examination of United States history, beginning with early colonization and continuing through the American Revolution, the foundations of government, and westward expansion. Students will analyze key events, documents, and ideas that shaped the nation’s political, economic, and social development. Emphasis is placed on historical thinking, critical analysis, and understanding how early decisions and movements influenced the growth of the United States.

8th Grade Advanced Social Studies is a rigorous course designed for students seeking a deeper and more analytical study of United States history. The course emphasizes close observation, critical analysis, higher-order questioning, and evidence-based academic writing. Students will examine key periods and themes in U.S. history, including colonization, the American Revolution, the foundations of government, and westward expansion. Through analysis of primary and secondary sources, inquiry-based learning, and structured writing, students will develop strong historical reasoning and communication skills.

History of America examines the development of the United States from the American Civil War through the Great Depression and continues with an in-depth study of the nation’s political, economic, demographic, and social development from World War II to the present. Students will analyze the political, economic, and geographic growth of the nation while exploring the roles of diverse groups and individuals in shaping American society. The course emphasizes the use of social science inquiry skills to evaluate historical events, movements, and policies, with a focus on America’s emergence as a postwar global superpower. Key themes include economic and military expansion, involvement in foreign conflicts to contain communism, civic activism, and shifting social and cultural norms.

AP Human Geography is a college-level course that examines the patterns and processes that shape human understanding, use, and organization of Earth’s surface. Students will explore topics such as population and migration, culture, language, religion, political organization of space, agriculture, urban development, industrialization, and globalization. The course emphasizes spatial thinking, analysis of geographic data, and the use of models and theories to explain human-environment interactions. Through inquiry-based investigations, data analysis, and evidence-based writing, students will develop critical thinking and analytical skills while preparing for the AP Human Geography exam.

AP United States History is a rigorous, college-level course that examines significant events, individuals, developments, and processes in U.S. history across nine historical periods, spanning from approximately 1491 to the present. Students will develop and apply the skills used by professional historians, including analyzing primary and secondary sources, constructing and supporting historical arguments, making historical connections, and reasoning through comparison, causation, and continuity and change over time.

The course is organized around eight recurring themes that help students connect historical developments across different eras and places: American and national identity; work, exchange, and technology; geography and the environment; migration and settlement; politics and power; America in the world; American and regional culture; and social structures. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking, evidence-based writing, and historical inquiry to prepare students for advanced study and the AP examination.

Ancient World History surveys the development of early civilizations from the emergence of the first writing systems, domestication of animals, and the advent of agriculture (c. 3500 BCE) through the fall of the Roman Empire (c. 500 AD). Students will examine how geographic movement, cultural norms, and human innovation shaped early societies, with particular attention to religious beliefs, systems of government, economic and trade networks, art and architecture, and technological advancements.

The first semester focuses on the early river valley civilizations of Mesopotamia, Egypt, India, and China, as well as smaller but influential societies such as the Hebrews, Phoenicians, and Minoans. The second semester explores Ancient Greece, the Hellenistic period, and the development and expansion of the Roman Republic and Roman Empire. Through historical inquiry and analysis, students will gain an understanding of how ancient civilizations laid the foundations for the modern world.

Dual Credit U.S. History I 106 is an introductory college-level course that surveys the development of American culture from the Colonial Period through Reconstruction. The course emphasizes the growth and evolution of political, social, and economic institutions and examines the historical forces that shaped early American society. Students will analyze key events, movements, and ideas using primary and secondary sources while developing skills in historical inquiry, critical thinking, and evidence-based writing aligned with college expectations.

Dual Credit U.S. History II 107 is a college-level course that surveys United States economic, social, political, and diplomatic history from Reconstruction through the late twentieth century. Students will examine major events, movements, and policies that shaped the nation’s development during this period, with an emphasis on historical analysis and interpretation. The course builds skills in evaluating primary and secondary sources, understanding historical context, and applying critical thinking to better understand the forces that influenced modern American society.

U.S. Government is an in-depth course that examines the federal and state levels of government, including the structure and functions of the three branches of the United States government. Students will study the constitutional foundations of the American political system, the principles that guide change within government, and the roles of citizens and institutions in a democratic society. The course also includes an introduction to basic economic principles and their relationship to public policy. Students are required to complete the Missouri and United States Constitution examinations, which are mandated by the state for all high school graduates.

AP U.S. Government and Politics is a rigorous, college-level course that provides a comprehensive study of the United States government at the federal, state, and local levels. The course is designed to help students develop a deep understanding of governmental processes, institutions, public policy, and the role of citizens in a democratic society. Students will analyze foundational documents, court cases, and contemporary political issues while developing skills in critical reading, analytical writing, and evidence-based argumentation. The course is reading- and writing-intensive both in and out of class and prepares students for active, informed citizenship.

Dual Credit National Government is a college-level course that provides an in-depth study of the structure, functions, and processes of the United States government. Students will examine the constitutional foundations of American government, the roles of the legislative, executive, and judicial branches, federalism, civil liberties and rights, and the relationship between citizens and government. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking, analysis of political systems, and informed civic participation. As part of the course requirements, students will complete the Missouri and United States Constitution examinations, which are required for all high school graduates in the state.

Dual Credit Crowder College World Regional Geography 111 is a college-level course that examines the regions and nations of the world with an emphasis on how geographic factors influence life on Earth. Students will explore natural environments, human–environment interactions, and cultural patterns that shape societies across the globe. The course emphasizes spatial thinking and the relationships between physical geography and human activity, helping students better understand global connections, regional diversity, and contemporary geographic issues.

Sociology examines human interaction and behavior within groups through the perspectives of functionalism, conflict theory, and symbolic interactionism. Students will study both macro- and micro-level social processes to better understand how societies are structured and how individuals interact within them. Topics include social norms, institutions, sports, rules, punishment, and social deviance. Through discussion, analysis, and real-world examples, students will develop a sociological imagination that helps them understand how groups, culture, and social structures influence behavior and shape the world around them.

Introduction to Sociology 101 is a foundational course that explores how society influences individual behavior, group interactions, and social institutions. Students examine key sociological concepts, theories, and perspectives related to culture, socialization, family, education, government, religion, and the economy. The course emphasizes understanding social diversity, inequality, and the ways social structures shape opportunities and outcomes.

Through discussions, real-world examples, and basic research and analysis, students develop critical thinking and an awareness of social issues at the local, national, and global levels. This course helps students build skills in observation, analysis, and communication while preparing them for further study in sociology, social sciences, and related career pathways.

Psychology provides an engaging introduction to the scientific study of human behavior and mental processes. Students will explore the historical foundations of psychology as well as contemporary theories and issues related to cognition, motivation, emotion, and wellness. Emphasis is placed on the use of scientific methods and principles of research design to better understand individuals as thinking, feeling, and social beings. Topics include the foundations of psychology, research methods, brain and behavior, sensation and perception, learning and memory, language and intelligence, lifespan development, emotion and motivation, personality, social psychology, wellness, psychological disorders and treatment, and consciousness.

Dual Credit Psychology 101 is an introductory college-level course that examines the scientific study of human behavior and mental processes. Students will explore the historical foundations of psychology, major theoretical perspectives, and contemporary research in the field. Emphasis is placed on understanding research methods, brain and behavior, sensation and perception, learning and memory, cognition, motivation and emotion, personality, lifespan development, social behavior, psychological disorders, and treatment approaches. This course encourages critical thinking and application of psychological concepts to real-world situations while preparing students for further study in psychology and related disciplines.

This course provides a comprehensive overview of autism, Asperger’s syndrome, and related autism spectrum disorders, with an emphasis on defining characteristics, identification, educational considerations, and contemporary issues in the field of special education. Students will develop a foundational understanding of evidence-based practices for teaching and supporting individuals with autism across educational settings.

Course content includes strategies to enhance classroom functioning, promote skill acquisition, and support communication, behavior, and social development. Students will also explore current research, legal and ethical considerations, and emerging trends related to autism spectrum disorders, preparing them with a strong foundation for further study or work in education, human services, or related fields.

This course focuses on the identification, measurement, evaluation, and modification of social and academic behaviors in special and diverse populations. Students will study the principles of applied behavior analysis (ABA) and explore theories of classroom management as they relate to effective instructional and behavioral practices.

Emphasis is placed on data-driven decision making, including observing and recording behavior, analyzing behavioral patterns, and implementing evidence-based interventions. Students will examine a variety of classroom management approaches, including the use of technological tools, and will develop both classroom-wide and individualized behavior management plans to support positive learning environments.

This course examines human development from conception through death, with a focus on physical, cognitive, and socioemotional changes across the lifespan. Students will explore major developmental theories, research findings, and key milestones that shape growth and behavior at each stage of life.

Emphasis is placed on understanding how biological, psychological, and social factors interact to influence development over time. Successful completion of this course partially fulfills Social and Behavioral Science general education requirements.

World History is a required survey course that examines the major social, cultural, economic, geographic, and political developments of civilizations across Asia, Europe, Africa, the Americas, and the Middle East from the Renaissance to modern times. Students will analyze historical patterns, global interactions, and the causes and consequences of change over time to better understand how past events shape the contemporary world. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking, use of primary and secondary sources, and making connections between historical developments and present-day global issues.

This course provides students with the foundational knowledge necessary to understand their place in an increasingly interconnected world and supports state graduation requirements. Instruction aligns with Section 170.011, RSMo, including the completion requirements for the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of the State of Missouri.

This course is an introductory, college-level modern world history course that examines global history from approximately 1200 CE to the present. Students cultivate their understanding of world history through the analysis of historical sources and the development of historical thinking skills, including making connections, evaluating evidence, and crafting well-supported historical arguments.

As students explore major global themes—such as humans and the environment; cultural developments and interactions; governance; economic systems; social interactions and organization; and technology and innovation—they will gain insight into patterns of continuity and change across regions and time periods. Emphasis is placed on critical reading, analytical writing, and comparative perspectives.

This course provides students with the opportunity to apply principles of applied behavior analysis (ABA) in everyday settings. Students will learn and practice ABA techniques such as implementing behavior change procedures, identifying the functions of behavior, and collecting and analyzing data to make data-informed decisions.

Course content also includes an introduction to academic, communication, and adaptive behavior assessments, with an emphasis on practical application. Students will be required to complete projects outside of class that connect course concepts to real-world situations, reinforcing the use of ABA strategies in daily life.

PACE: 7th Grade Social Studies provides specially designed instruction focused on building foundational social studies knowledge and skills. Students will explore basic concepts related to geography, history, civics, and culture while developing skills in comprehension, discussion, and critical thinking.

Instruction emphasizes understanding maps, communities, historical events, and civic responsibilities through modified content and scaffolded instruction. Course content is individualized to support progress toward goals.

PACE: 8th Grade Social Studies builds upon foundational skills with increased emphasis on U.S. history, government, and civic responsibility. Students will examine key historical events, foundational documents, and the roles of citizens in society using adapted materials and instructional supports.

Instruction focuses on developing comprehension, discussion, and application of social studies concepts in meaningful ways.

PACE: 9th Grade Social Studies introduces students to global perspectives through the study of world history, geography, and cultural awareness. Instruction emphasizes understanding historical events, geographic regions, and cultural differences while building skills in comparison, cause-and-effect reasoning, and communication.

Course content is modified and individualized to meet student needs with an emphasis on comprehension and real-world relevance.

PACE: 10th Grade Social Studies focuses on American history and civic understanding with an emphasis on major historical developments, democratic principles, and the role of individuals in society. Students will explore historical events, government structures, and civic responsibilities through structured and supported instruction.

Instruction promotes engagement, understanding, and practical application of social studies concepts.

PACE: 11th Grade Social Studies emphasizes civics, government, and economic principles with a focus on preparing students for informed citizenship. Topics may include rights and responsibilities, decision-making, laws, and basic economic concepts that impact daily life.

Instruction supports critical thinking, discussion, and application of concepts in real-world contexts. Course content is aligned to student goals with an emphasis on independence and postsecondary readiness.

PACE: 12th Grade Social Studies is designed to support transition planning and real-world application of social studies concepts. Instruction emphasizes functional civics, financial literacy, community engagement, and understanding societal systems that affect daily living and employment.

Students will apply social studies knowledge to practical situations such as voting, employment rights, consumer responsibilities, and community participation.