"I know of no safe depository of the ultimate powers of the society but with the people themselves; and if we think them not enlightened enough to exercise their control with a wholesome discretion, the remedy is not to take power from them, but to inform their discretion through instruction." - Thomas Jefferson, 1820 Philosophy The primary purpose of social studies is the integration of history, the social sciences, geography, and the humanities to promote civic competence in our citizenry. Such individuals are well-informed, critical thinkers, who are prepared for the social and personal responsibilities of participating in a democratic society in an ever changing world. In order to assure civic competence, Pearland High School is dedicated to a social studies curriculum which identifies relationships between the past and present and interrelationships within societies. A curriculum provided by the State of Texas, Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills, is committed to the ethical values of democracy, is concerned with cultural diversity and the dignity of all people, and acknowledges the interdependence of all nations in a global system. The social studies department at Pearland High School is committed to providing a solid base of writing and analytical skills while also imparting a comprehensive understanding of the social, historical and value structures which surround us. The department’s expectations of students are: - Engage in interactive questioning and discussion;
- Engage in practical applications of social studies content and skills;
- Express informed opinions supported by factual information;
- Communicate in written, oral and visual form;
- Integrate social studies content and skills with other subject areas;
- Use problem-solving and decision making skills, work independently and with others, and in a variety of settings;
- Organize and use information acquired from a variety of sources, including electronic technology.
Required Courses: | Suggested Grade | Course | Length of Course | | 9 th | World Geography | 2 Semesters | | 10 th | World History | 2 Semesters | | 10 th | AP World History* | 2 Semesters | | 11 th | United States History from 1877 | 2 Semesters | | 11 th | AP United States History* | 2 Semesters | | 12 th | Government | 1 Semester | | 12 th | AP Government* | 1 Semester | | 12 th | Economics | 1 Semester | | 12 th | AP Economics* | 1 Semester | * May be substituted for regular level of that course. Elective courses offered: | | | | Sociology | 1 Semester | | Psychology | 1 Semester | | Honors Psychology* | 1 Semester | | AP Psychology* | 1 Semester | | AP European History | 2 Semesters | | AP Human Geography | 1 Semester | | Military History | 1 Semester | | History in Film | 1 Semester | *Honors Psychology and AP Psychology are usually taken together as a full year course. Department Grading Policy Social Studies TAKS Review Links
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