Pope John Paul II Catholic High School

4810 Bradford Drive, Huntsville, Alabama 35805 (256) 430-1760
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Social Sciences

Catholic High School requires four credits of Social Studies.  The course of study emphasizes the understanding of ideas and values that lay the foundation for responsible citizenship, while fostering the development of analytical and critical thinking through the study of history, geography, economics, and political science.


Social Sciences Faculty
Name Email Course
Ann Lawson alawson@chsfalcons.org World History I, World History II, AP European
Ludwig Gustafson lgustafson@chsfalcons.org World History I
Karen Schlosser kschlosser@chsfalcons.org Psychology
Leta Hix lhix@chsfalcons.org Government, AP Government, Economics
George Cavender gcavender@chsfalcons.org US History
Michelle Whetstone mwhetstone@chsfalcons.org World History I, AP US History

World History I 

This ninth grade course introduces students to the study of world history from the Renaissance to the mid-nineteenth century. Students will explore significant social, cultural, economic, and political developments in both the Western and non-Western worlds. Students will have opportunities to strengthen geographic literacy, as well as critical reading and research skills.

One credit

 

World History II

This tenth grade course introduces students to the study of world history since the mid- 19th century.  Beginning with the rise of industrializing societies, students will survey topics relevant for an understanding of the world in the 21st century, including imperialism, World Wars, post-colonialism, and globalization.  Students will have opportunities to continue to strengthen geographic and information literacy, as well as college-preparatory critical reading and research skills.

Prerequisite:  World History I                                                                                 

One credit

 

U.S. History

This eleventh grade course engages students in the study of United States history from the Colonial era to the present day.  Students will have opportunities to survey and investigate significant events and ideas in the development of the United States, as well as explore its role in world affairs, while sharpening analytical, critical thinking, and research skills.

One credit

 

Government

This one semester course for twelfth grade students gives a broad overview of the policies and institutions of the United States government.  While becoming knowledgeable about the foundations, the structures, and the theories underpinning the United States’ system of government, students will also gain an understanding of how a democratic republic functions, including their own role as active and informed citizens.

0.5 credit

Economics 

This one semester course provides twelfth grade students with an introduction to the basic characteristics of the American economic system.  It covers the economic principles that influence business decisions and the role of government and individuals in the economy.  The curriculum incorporates the study of healthy personal finance practices.

0.5 credit

 

Psychology

This course presents an overview of the science of the mind.  The areas covered encompass the personality theories as well as developmental psychology.  The developmental model also covers personality disorders and treatment. 

One credit

 

AP World History

This college-level course, taken primarily by ninth grade students, provides an introduction to the study of world history, from ancient to modern, with an emphasis on the evolution of an interconnected, global society.  With an approach that is often comparative, the course examines patterns of change and continuity and enables students to gain an understanding of how historical knowledge is constructed.  The course is designed to challenge intellectually curious students who have demonstrated academic ability as well as mastery of essential study skills.

Prerequisite:  Instructor Approval and Teacher Referral

                                                                                                                                       One credit

 

AP European History

This college-level course, taken primarily by tenth grade students, engages students in an in-depth study of key events in European history from the Renaissance to the present.  It offers a comprehensive overview of the development of European culture, while also introducing students to the concerns, resources and methodologies of historical studies.

Prerequisite: Instructor Approval

                                                           One credit


AP United States History

This college-level course for eleventh grade students examines the evolution of the political, economic, diplomatic, social, and cultural history of the United States.  It engages students in the comprehensive study of critical issues and events of American history. 

Prerequisite: Instructor Approval 

One credit

 

AP United States Government and Politics

This college-level political science course is for twelfth grade students.  During a year-long course of study, students gain an introduction to the discipline of political science while also acquiring an in-depth understanding of the American system of government, from its foundations to the present day.

Prerequisite: Instructor Approval

One credit