Social Studies

Mr. Charles J. Cremeans, 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 higher. 

Social Studies Course Offerings

Global History 1 & 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.

Global History 3 & 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 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 (H3PH, H4PH). Prerequisite: 92% average in Global History 2

U.S. History 1 & 2

This course investigates the first cultures of America, its rediscovery, conquest, colonization, foundations for the 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 committed to. In the second term, we investigate 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 in the world and technology. The class ends with the United States and Government Regents Examination in January.

Participation in Government

This course begins with the essential 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.

Economics

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.

Model UN

We are a government and economics class that focuses on modern international history, which is achieved through assiduous research, writing, and presentations. We offer a humanitarian approach in which opens a new context of world discussions hoping to improve the world we live in one moment at a time.