American Government (one semester course)

American Government is the study of the historical backgrounds, governing principles, and institutions of the government of the United States. The focus is on the principles and beliefs upon which the United States was founded and on the structure, functions, and powers of government at the national, state, and local levels. The principles of popular sovereignty, separation of powers, checks and balances, republicanism, federalism, and individual rights will be examined as will the roles of individuals and groups in the American political system. Students will compare the American system of government with other modern systems and assess the strengths and problems associated with the American system. Syllabus

American History

This course is designed to provide the student with a basic understanding of American History. The content will focus on the origins of the nation’s democratic principals and continue through present day domestic and foreign issues that affect American society. There will be a particular emphasis on the individuals and groups that have not only been impacted by the nation’s development but those who have made contributions as well. Students will utilize critical thinking and problem solving skills as they participate in interactive discussions, and complete assignments establishing real-world connections. Syllabus

Civics (one semester course)

Civics can be express as a study in citizenship and government. This course will provide the learner with a basic understanding of civic life, politics, and government; a short history of it's foundation and development, what rights the American government guarantees its citizens, and a survey of the duties and responsibilities American citizens must exercise in order to maintain their government. It will introduce the workings of our own and other political systems as well as the relationship of American politics and government to world affairs. Syllabus

Economics (one semester course)

Economics is the study of how societies use limited resources to satisfy their unlimited wants and needs. It is the foundation of this course as students learn how fundamental decisions about the four factors of production; land, labor, capital, and entrepreneurship are made. Key topics covered include: law of supply and demand; saving, borrowing, and spending; the Federal Reserve System and the money supply; and the role of government in an open market economy. Syllabus

Geography

This Geography course will examine a broad range of geographical perspectives covering all of the major regions of the world. Each region will be reviewed in a similar structure in order for students to more clearly see the similarities and differences between each region. Specifically, the course will explore where each region is located along with its physical characteristics, including absolute and relative location, climate, and significant geographical features. The exploration will then continue on to look at each region from a cultural, economic, and political perspective, closely examining the human impact on each region from these perspectives as well as how human activities impact the environments of the region. Syllabus

World History

This course is a survey of world history from prehistoric to contemporary times. Students will learn about the socio-economic, political, and ideological conditions of various time periods as they study historical events and cultural achievements of world regions. Using primary and secondary sources, they will utilize critical thinking and problem solving skills as they conduct inquiry-based research, participate in interactive discussions, and complete assignments establishing real-world connections. Syllabus