Social Studies

Economics

This course introduces basic economic theory in addition to a focus on financial literacy. Areas of study include micro-economics, macro-economics, and international economics.

Honors Economics and Statistics

Grades: 11, 12 Prerequisite: Advanced Algebra and Teacher Recommendation

This is a one term, team taught class that would fulfill both the social studies economics requirement and the math statistics requirement. The focus of this class is to show how economics and mathematics are integrated into our daily lives. Relevant economics issues will be analyzed using economic concepts and mathematical principles. Higher order math will be performed so a strong math background is highly recommended. Tests and papers specific to both economics and statistics will be required.

American Government

Students taking this course will study the Constitution and the principles of American Government.

AP American Government

AP U.S. Government and Politics is a college level course for high school students. Topics from foundations of American Government and the Bill of Rights to current political policies will be covered. Students will also study elections, campaigns, civil liberties, civil rights, and current political issues. Students will investigate political ideologies, voting behavior and the roles of interest groups. Discussion of the news as it relates to politics is a key part of class. The College Board’s national test for U.S. Government and Politics is given in May. You could receive college credit for the course depending on your test score.

Grades: 11, 12 This is a current events class. National and international issues will be studied. Students will be expected to read newspapers and news magazines, participate in class discussions, and write papers dealing with appropriate current topics.

Grade: 9, 10, 11, 12 In this class, the student will learn about the different cultures, peoples, and regions of the world. The course will be a project based class. In addition to books, we will also be using e-mail and the Internet to talk directly with students in different parts of the world and we will be conducting interviews with international students from either Winona State or Saint Mary's Universities.

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12 Do you enjoy learning about history? Do you enjoy researching and creating engaging projects? If yes, this is the elective class for you! This course will give you the opportunity to participate in National History Day. Each year, the National History Day organization selects a theme for students to do in-depth research on a topic related to that theme and produce an original creative work to display your research. For more information and for specific examples go to the official website.

Honors Economics and Statistics

Grades: 11, 12 Prerequisite: Advanced Algebra and Teacher Recommendation

This is a one term, team taught class that would fulfill both the social studies economics requirement and the math statistics requirement. The focus of this class is to show how economics and mathematics are integrated into our daily lives. Relevant economics issues will be analyzed using economic concepts and mathematical principles. Higher order math will be performed so a strong math background is highly recommended. Tests and papers specific to both economics and statistics will be required.

Grades: 11, 12 This elective course will focus on free thinking and independent thought. Students will discuss some of humanity’s oldest questions. The course will examine the difference between knowledge and wisdom. General Omar Bradley once said, “We are technological giants and ethical infants.” What does that mean?

Grades: 11, 12 This course presents a study of research methods, theories of psychological development, theories of learning and personality, and an examination of psychological exceptionalities.

Grades: 11, 12 Mass Society is designed to give students a better understanding of how our lives are influenced by the larger society. Topics may include social stratification, violence in society, crime and punishment, collective behavior, race and ethnicity, and demography (population studies).

Grade: 9, 10 This elective class takes a serious look at the life of a teen in today's world. Topics covered may include, but not be limited to: individual learning styles, understanding stress and conflict, self esteem, peer pressure, conflict resolution, communication skills, and decision-making. Students will learn skills that will allow them to choose to make healthy, proactive life decisions.

Zero Hour Service Learning I (SL-I)

Grades: 11, 12 This class is offered prior to the start of the regular school day. Transportation is the responsibility of the student and parent/guardian. See Service Learning I description for more information.

Service Learning I (SL-I)

Grades: 11, 12 This course is offered in the belief that students should have significant experience in helping to meet the needs of others in settings such as daycare centers, nursing homes, schools, community centers, and through creative class projects affecting local, national, and even global community needs. SL-I is scheduled for one semester with one block each quarter of the semester. Students earn two elective credits toward graduation. Personal transportation will be required, however, some service sites ARE well within walking distance.

Service Learning II (SL-II)

Grades: 11, 12 Prerequisite: Successful completion of Service-Learning I (SL-I)

This course is offered as an advanced experience in helping to meet the needs of others. Students must have earned an 80% (B-) grade or higher in the Service Learning I course. Students may continue the experience at their first service site or may choose to go to a new/different location to volunteer. At least one all-class project will be completed as well as other individual projects. Students earn one elective credit toward graduation. Personal transportation will be required, however, some service sites ARE well within walking distance.

Grades: 11, 12 This course presents a study of human relationships and patterns of social behavior. Culture, social class, socialization, gender issues, stages of life, and other social problems will be examined as to their effect on human behavior.