History & Social Sciences

The History and Social Sciences program seeks to encourage informed democratic citizenship through the study of World and American History and the social sciences. We want students to:

Appreciate the historical and cultural influences that shape their individual identities, our national identity, and the cultures and countries that share our planet.
Understand and reason about successes, failures, triumphs, and tragedies in human history, particularly as they are reflected in the ideas and actions of the people we study.
Gain a clear understanding of American institutions and traditions.
Prepare for adult lives of informed and active citizenship and civic engagement.
Learn to work as historians and social scientists, demonstrating analytical thinking, clear oral and written expression of ideas, and strong research skills.

Students are required to take a two-year World History sequence in grades nine and ten, and a year of American History in grade eleven. Seniors may choose from a variety of offerings in history or the social sciences.

American Studies courses are coordinated with the English department’s Junior year course in American literature for students seeking an interdisciplinary learning experience. Students must also register for the corresponding American Studies English course noted in the descriptions below. Be advised that this can make schedule changes extremely difficult if a student decides to change courses once the school year has begun.

Scope, Sequence, and Course Placement Philosophy:

Newton North has a commitment to opportunity, access, and excellence for all students. The scope and sequence of courses in each department has been designed to support these overarching goals. Courses include an articulation of content and skills that can be developed and learned within a developmentally appropriate community of learners at each grade level. The curriculum is designed to support the continuous academic, social, and skill development growth for all students. A core value at North is that all students are appropriately challenged and supported both in terms of the work in individual classes and more broadly across a student’s schedule. As students consider their course load, we support them in finding an appropriate level of stretch and balance within their classes. Teachers consider this placement philosophy when making course level recommendations.

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