Instructional Teacher Leader
Email Joseph O’Connor
Social Studies
The basic purpose of the Social Studies program is to provide the motivation, understanding, knowledge and skills necessary for informed and active citizenship in the United States and the global community. Ideally, each pupil who completes the program should understand the basic principles upon which this nation functions and should be motivated to support these principles actively as a patriotic, participating citizen. The selection of social science materials for inclusion in the school curriculum is made with this purpose in mind. Students are required to take Social Studies courses in grades 9, 10, and 12. All students must complete the following social studies courses for graduation—United States and Pennsylvania History in grade 9, Global Studies in grade 10, and Government and Public Policy in grade 12. The Global Studies course in grade 10 may be replaced by World History AP. The Government and Public Policy course in grade 12 may be replaced by United States Government AP. Students are also encouraged to take other Social Studies electives during grades 10-12.
Honors Sequence And Advanced Placement
To succeed in an honors-level social studies course, students should be highly motivated for the study of social studies at a scholarly level and have demonstrated an aptitude and achievement for the study of social studies at an advanced level. Students are expected to read independently in the area of study and to assume a greater degree of responsibility for learning.
Prerequisites
Students recommended for Honors and AP level courses should have an A average in the same subject in their current Academic level course or an A or B in their current Honors level course. Additionally, 9th and 10th grade students should have a 40% or greater probability of scoring Advanced on the Literature Keystone Exam or a 70% or greater probability of scoring Proficient on the Literature Keystone Exam.