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	PRAIRIE RIDGE HIGH SCHOOL
Social Science

Classes Offered

FRESHMAN/SOPHOMORE BLOCK

GLOBAL STUDIES I
This course examines both the diversity and similarity among the world's peoples and cultures with an emphasis on non-western nations. Students will develop a knowledge of and appreciation for the contributions of many cultures in our global society. The course will highlight India, China, and Japan. Each unit will discuss the history, arts, geography, current events, religions, and daily life of these cultures.

Semesters: 1
Credit: l/2 per sem. Level: 9, l0

GLOBAL STUDIES II
This course examines both the diversity and similarity among the world's peoples and cultures with an emphasis on non-western nations. Students will develop a knowledge of and appreciation for the contributions of many cultures in our global society. This course will highlight Africa, the Middle East, and South America. Each unit will discuss the history, arts, geography, current events, religions, and daily life of these cultures.

Semesters: 1
Credit: l/2 per sem. Level: 9, l0

ANCIENT CIVILIZATIONS (H)
This honors class surveys early civilizations, including those from Egypt, Mesopotamia, the Middle East, India, China, Greece and Rome. It highlights the contributions made by these early civilizations to current civilizations, including world religions such as Judaism, Christianity, Hinduism, Buddhism, and Confucianism.

Semesters: l
Credit: l/2 Level: 9, 10

CHANGE AND REVOLUTION (H)
This honors course begins with the Byzantine Civilization and the rise of Islam, including both a study of the religion and Muslim culture. It highlights events from the Middle Ages (such as the Crusades, the Black Death, the building of castles and Gothic cathedrals, feudalism, chivalry, etc.), which led to the rise of the nation-states in England, France, Spain and Russia. The cultural changes brought about by the Renaissance, the Reformation, and the Enlightenment are also covered. The course concludes with the revolutions in England and France, as well as the Age of Napoleon.

Semesters: l
Credit: l/2 Level: 9, l0

NINETEENTH AND TWENTIETH CENTURY WORLD (H)
This honors course surveys historical developments from l815 to the present. From the Downfall of Napoleon, the Congress of Vienna and the Nationalistic Revolts of l848 the course moves on to the Industrial Revolution and the development of capitalism, socialism, and Marxism. Imperialism is another major topic, including colonial empires of the world through World War I. Major twentieth-century topics include the Russian Revolution, the rise of Fascism, and World War II. The last unit covers the Cold War and other political developments since l945, including the Middle East, Asia and Africa.

Semesters: 1
Credit: l/2 Level: 9, l0

WORLD GEOGRAPHY I
The first eleven weeks of World Geography I is a study of general concepts in physical, cultural, economic and political geography. The concept of world patterns is developed in such areas as climates, topography, natural and human resources. This study is intended to provide needed background for a more detailed study of the eight major cultural regions of the world. The rest of the semester is a culture regional study of North America.

Semesters: 1
Credit: 1/2 Level: 9, 10

WORLD GEOGRAPHY II
World Geography II consists of a culture regional study of Europe, Latin America, Africa, Asia and the Pacific world.

Semesters: 1
Credit: 1/2 Level: 9, 10

JUNIOR/SENIOR BLOCK

UNITED STATES HISTORY
This course meets the American History graduation requirement.

This course is a survey of our nation's history. Semester one begins with Colonial America and will include the Civil War. Semester two begins with Reconstruction and continues into the 20th century, including the Cold War. Throughout the course emphasis is placed on relating what is learned with the present. Primary goals include an appreciation of our nation's heritage, an understanding of our system of government, and a knowledge of our country's changing role in a changing world. Emphasis is also placed on developing a sense of historical perspective. In the first semester of this course the State requirement for passing the Illinois and United States constitution tests is met.

Semesters: 2
Credit: l/2 per sem. Level: 11, 12

CURRENT ISSUES IN DEMOCRACY
The objective of this course is to stimulate the students' interest and understanding of the American way of life. It is intended that students realize not only the advantages of a democratic society, but also become aware of the difficulties and dangers of this form of government. Emphasis is given to the view that intelligent people in a democracy differ on the solutions to problems, but it is the obligation of citizens to get the facts and make up their own mind. Lastly, students will recognize that decisions made in our society are made from knowledge of our past history. Some of the units covered are: elections, comparative governments, poverty and current economic problems.

Semesters: 1
Credit: 1/2 Level: 11, 12

LAW IN AMERICAN SOCIETY
Street Law concentrates on providing students with both theoretical and practical applications of law in American society. It is designed to alert students of potential legal problems and liability and when possible provide a basis for self help. Units will include but not be limited to such topics as: court organization, criminal law, and civil law.