What's happening in the Social Studies Department

The Social Studies Department has had an exciting and impactful trimester filled with critical thinking, real-world connections, and hands-on learning across every course. From analyzing the causes and consequences of major historical events to applying civic knowledge in meaningful ways, students are engaging deeply with the world around them. Whether they’re investigating primary sources, exploring political issues, reflecting on personal leadership, or examining human behavior, our students are building the skills, curiosity, and understanding needed to become informed, thoughtful citizens. Each class is creating powerful learning experiences that challenge students to think, question, and grow.

U.S. History -  In US History students have spent time evaluating sources, and making cause-and-effect connections.  They have looked into causes of World War II and how that affected the lives of Europeans and Americans.  Students were able to use their design skills and artistic abilities through a one pager about life on the home front during WWII.

Government & Society - In Gov & Society, students are wrapping up the trimester by putting their civic education into action.  They researched a political issue and created a slideshow that they presented to their peers.  Finally, they used claim, evidence and analysis to explain their beliefs on two political issues of their choice.  

History 201/202 - History 201 is a dual-credit college course through the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh. The course focuses on United States History Pre-Columbian–Reconstruction. Throughout the course students have practiced and perfected the critical thinking skills historians have practiced for millenia. As the trimester draws to a close the students have been conducting primary and secondary source research on the various socio-economic and political factors that brought about the failure of Reconstruction after the Civil War. They will present their findings in an essay. Next Trimester we will begin History 202. History 202 focuses on America’s growing influence in the 20th Century. 

AP Government - AP Gov students are wrapping up Unit 2 that examines political participation including elections, the electoral college, and political ideologies. There are also many influences in elections including money & fundraising, the role of the media, and political parties. The second trimester will find us exploring the interaction between the three branches of government, the role of the presidency, and why Congress does what it does! Finally, the second half of tri-2 will be all about the Judicial Branch. We explore the US Supreme Court, about a dozen cases that have impacted law & society, and how these cases have impacted our civil liberties and civil rights as Americans.

Character & Leadership - Our class focuses on interpersonal relationships, the journey of self-improvement as we emerge as leaders. Recent focus has been on the Eight Essentials including respect, kindness, patience, commitment, forgiveness, humility, honesty, and selflessness. From videos, reflection writing, and great class discussions and activities, we dig deep into how we influence others, and what character means and how we become leaders. 

Psychology - In Psychology, students are exploring how biological and environmental factors influence thoughts, emotions, and behavior. Students have focused on applying the DSM-5, interpreting case studies, and comparing treatment methods.  I have been excited to see them make meaningful connections between psychological concepts and their real-world experiences.