Social Studies at Lake Forest High School prepare students to deal more effectively with the issues that they, as citizens, will confront throughout their lives. To that end, instruction in the Social Studies is designed to introduce students to a broad spectrum of skills and content that equips them to address the ever-changing global issues of the 21st century. The interconnected nature and fragility of the world makes in-depth, relevant social studies instruction essential. Our goal is to provide all students with academic and authentic learning opportunities that both ignites their passion for learning and enhances their ability and motivation to contribute as citizens in their communities – from the school community to the neighborhood, their city, our state, the nation and the global communities in which they find themselves.


AFRICA TO AMERICA – A HISTORY OF AFRICA
AND AFRICAN AMERICANS — 1/2 Unit of credit Freshmen, Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors
Prerequisite: None
This one semester course surveys the early history of the African continent inclusive of theorigins of civilizations, development of cultural patterns and the interaction of African civilizations with peoples from Europe and Asia. A study of geography and its impact on the African continent is also a component of this survey. Africa to America continues with a study of the transatlantic slave trade and explores such topics and issues as: slave culture and life, the experiences of free blacks, contributions of African Americans to early America, the anti-slavery movement and events leading to the American Civil War. The infusion of African and African American literature, music and art into western culture completes this comprehensive study of African American history prior to the Civil War. Integration of visual media, literature, and technology with standard textbook sources seeks to challenge and stimulate open discussion and discovery. Various methods of teaching will be used, such as discussion, question and answer sessions, lectures, seminars, oral reports, simulations, role playing, and panel discussions. Student involvement is encouraged as emphasis is placed on student participation, individual research, and the development of critical reading, thinking and writing skills. This course satisfies the Global Studies distribution requirement in social studies.

THE AFRICAN AMERICAN EXPERIENCE IN
THE MODERN ERA — 1/2 Unit of credit Freshmen, Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors
Prerequisite: Although no requirement exists, it is strongly recommended that the first semester course Africa to America be completed before enrolling in this second semester course. This second semester course surveys the African American experience in the modern era. Topics of study include the Civil War, Reconstruction, the Jim Crow Era, the Harlem Renaissance, the history of the civil rights movement, African American participation in global warfare, the issues surrounding affirmative action, and issues concerning American race relations and contemporary African American culture. Comparisons will be studied involving Americans of African, European, Hispanic/Latin, Asian and Native descent.The infusion of art, literature, music and technology into the curriculum is used to further enhance the study the African American and other ethnic experiences in the United States. Use of information sources such as print materials from texts, periodicals and newspapers seeks tochallenge and stimulate open discussion and discovery. Various methods of teaching, such as discussion, question and answer sessions, lectures, seminars, oral reports, simulations, role playing, and panel discussions will be used. Student involvement is encouraged as emphasis is placed on student participation, individual research, and the development of critical reading, thinking and writing skills. This course satisfies the Social Science distribution requirement in the social studies.

CONTEMPORARY AFRICAN STUDIES – 1/2 Unit of credit Freshmen, Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors
Prerequisite: None
This one semester course introduces students to contemporary Africa, its rich history, culture and contributions to the world. This course is taught regionally and topically, providing a full and detailed picture of the issues that impact the African continent. This regional study of Africa will focus on the geography of the African continent and its impact on development, culture (music, dance, food, gender relations, family, art, etc.) and religions including traditional African religions, Islam and Christianity. A survey approach will be used to present the history of colonization and imperialism and their impact on the African content. Emphasis will be placed on discussing nationalism and independence movements that have created the modern-day Africa we know. The teacher will use a variety of methods including: lecture, discussion, technology, group projects, primary and secondary source work, oral reports and African literature and song. This course satisfies the Global Studies distribution requirement in social studies.

ASIAN STUDIES – 1/2 Unit of credit Freshmen, Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors
Prerequisite: None
This one semester course will introduce students to Asia, the most populated and fastest economically growing region in the world today. The course is designed to expose students to modern history, current day issues, and the culture of Asia. Countries studied in this class will be China, Japan, North Korea, South Korea, India, Cambodia and the Himalaya Region. Students will learn how Asia has emerged from its long struggles of the past to become one of the most dynamic regions in the world today. This course will also integrate literature as part of the course requirement, and field trips to Chicago’s Asian communities and cultural institutions. This class satisfies the Global Studies distribution requirement in social studies.

BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES — 1/2 Unit of credit Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors
Prerequisite: Social Sciences
Behavioral Sciences is a one semester class designed for the student who has difficulty with critical reading, writing, and/or analytical thinking skills. This course continues the exploration of the social sciences begun in the prerequisite course, Social Sciences. It emphasizes those branches of the behavioral sciences that provide an analysis of human behavior both in groups and as individuals. This class will also include a number of “hands-on” activities such as role playing, group work and presentations, and simulations. To help the student understand and participate more effectively in our modern world, the content for this course may be drawn from sociology, psychology, anthropology, and/or geography. This course satisfies the Social Science distribution requirement for social studies.

CONTEMPORARY ISSUES — 1/2 Unit of credit Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors
Prerequisite: Sophomores must have demonstrated advanced critical writing, reading and thinking skills and must have completed at least one semester of social studies in the high school. Approval of the current teacher a d the Department Chair is REQUIRED for a sophomore to enroll in this class. The objective of this one semester course is to introduce students to all sides of contemporary global controversies in an objective and comprehensive manner. By exposing students to the many sides of debate surrounding an issue, promotion of issue awareness and critical thinking are the key learning outcomes. Student involvement is emphasized in this course through a variety of formats including discussion, cooperative learning, simulations, multi-media presentations, internet research, development of informational web pages/blogs, essay writing, debates and student presentations. Development and utilization of advanced critical reading, thinking and writing skills are integral to this course. This course satisfies the Social Science distribution requirement in social studies.

ECONOMICS — 1/2 Unit of credit Juniors, Seniors
Prerequisite: None
This one semester course is designed to provide students with an introduction to the study of economic systems, with a focus on capitalism and the U. S. economy. Student involvement is strongly emphasized in this course through a variety of classroom formats, including group work, student presentations and role playing activities. This course will also examine current events from daily periodicals. Students will get a "handson" look at investing during a stock market simulation in which they will compete with teams from other schools around the state and country. The course will also develop the knowledge and skills students require to be effective, participatory consumers in the U. S. economy. The objective of these and other activities will be to help students to draw connections between the topics and material discussed in class and the world around them. This course meets the Social Science distribution requirement in social studies and fulfills the Consumer Education requirement.


AP ECONOMICS — 1 Unit of credit Juniors, Seniors
Prerequisite: U.S. History AP or Department Chair recommendation. A summer reading list and writing assignment is a REQUIRED part of this course. This two-semester course in the principles of economics introduces basic economic problems such as supply and demand, unemployment, growth, inflation, business cycles and the distribution of income. The second semester concentrates upon various markets such as pure competition, monopolies and efficient use of resources. Economics AP is recommended for college preparatory students considering further study in business, economics or liberal arts. The methodology used in the course is basically lecture and question and answer. Computer programs, audio-visual aids and outside speakers strengthen the class experiences. Students are expected to take the Advanced Placement Exam as part of this course. This course fulfills the Consumer Education requirement and satisfies the Social Science distribution requirement in social studies.

LATIN AMERICAN STUDIES – 1/2 Unit of credit Freshmen, Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors
Prerequisite: No prerequisite Students will explore the people, culture and history of the nations of Latin America. The course will introduce students to the many cultural achievements of the region, including visual art, music, literature, poetry, dance, drama, etc. The course will also explore how this part of the western hemisphere affects the United States: Trade arrangements such as NAFTA make significant contributions to our economy and helps Mexico be the United States’ second largest trade partner; issues such as immigration and the environment present concerns for a sustainable future for the western hemisphere and the world; the stability of national governments in Latin America impacts the political balance of the region as a whole. Finally, students will trace the long term consequences of colonialism and how this legacy impacts Latin America today. This course satisfies the Global Studies distribution requirement in Social Studies.

MIDDLE EASTERN STUDIES – 1/2 Unit of credit Freshmen, Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors
Prerequisite: No prerequisite
This one semester course introduces students to the contemporary Middle East through an interdisciplinary approach of geography, history, and political science. Topics to be covered in the course include the origins of modern Middle Eastern nations, natural resources of the region, the Arabic language and shared culture, the arts and music of the region, the religion of Islam, the status of women in society, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and the modern histories and current events of countries such as Iran and Iraq. Each student will also have a chance to conduct individual research of interest to them. The course will give students an understanding of this region and the prominent role it has in global affairs today; it will approach the topics through the lens of multiple perspectives. This course satisfies the Global Studies distribution requirement in Social Studies.

AP MODERN EUROPEAN HISTORY — 1 Unit of credit Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors
Prerequisite: "B" or higher in previous honors social studies course or Department Chair recommendation. A summer reading list and writing assignment is a REQUIRED part of this course. (Though participation in the World Civilizations program is not required prior to this course, it is STRONGLY RECOMMENDED.) The scope and sequence of this course begins at the Renaissance and moves to the contemporary period of European history. A topical approach is used, along with basic attention paid to chronology. Heavy emphasis is placed upon historical method, bibliography, research, and historical interpretation. Development of social studies skills is also stressed through analysis of primary and secondary sources. A student research paper is required. Students are expected to take the Advanced Placement Exam as part of this course. This course uses a college text and is for highly motivated students who are excellent readers. The course expectations, also, require significant writing by the student. This course satisfies the Global Studies distribution requirement in Social Studies.

POLITICAL SCIENCE 1 — 1/2 Unit of credit Juniors, Seniors
Prerequisite: United States History
Political Science CP is a one-semester course that introduces students to the study of political systems with a focus on the operation of democratic institutions and the system of government that has developed in the United States. Particular emphasis will be placed on the national government with respect to the framework set forth in the U.S. Constitution and the evolution of the American system over time. This course will develop the knowledge and skills consistent with effective, participatory citizenship in national and global communities. Student involvement is strongly emphasized in this class through a variety of classroom formats, including group work, student presentations and role playing activities. This course will also incorporate current events from daily periodicals in its examination of various political institutions and draw upon other outside sources to supplement textbook materials. The objective of these and other activities will be to help students draw connections between topics covered and material discussed in class and the world around them. This course meets the Social Science distribution requirement for social studies.

AP POLITICAL SCIENCE — 1 Unit of credit Juniors, Seniors
Prerequisite: U.S. History AP or Department Chair recommendation. A summer reading list and writing assignment is a REQUIRED part of this course. The first semester of this course compares American democracy with other major systems of political thought and government. The first semester also provides a background study of political theory and a detailed examination of communism and socialism, as practiced in the former Soviet Union, China and other areas of the world. The second semester of this course explores the various levels of U.S. government. Students will investigate the nature of political behavior by examining the political structures of various national governments around the world. An in-depth study of the American political system concentrates on the three branches of government at the state, local and national levels. The format of the course is basically lecture, discussion, and question and answer. Classroom simulations of actual legislative and judicial proceedings are conducted. Heavy emphasis is placed on outside reading and research and writing skills through extensive analytical essay assignments. Students are expected to take the Advanced Placement Exam as part of this course. This course satisfies the Social Science distribution requirement in social studies.

SOCIAL SCIENCES — 1/2 Unit of credit Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors
Prerequisite: Current teacher or Department Chair recommendationSocial Sciences is a one semester class designed for the student who has difficulty with critical reading, writing, and/or analytical thinking skills. This one semester course provides an introduction to the social sciences as they influence the behavior of citizens in a democratic society. The class will include a number of “hands-on” activities such as role-playing, group work and presentations, and simulations. The content for the course will be drawn from civics, including government and law, and economics to provide the student with the skills and knowledge needed to be an effective citizen who can participate in our democratic society. This course satisfies the Social Science distribution requirement for social studies as well as meets the Consumer Education requirement.

PSYCHOLOGY — 1/2 Unit of credit Juniors, Seniors
Prerequisite: None
Psychology, as a science and a profession, focuses on the study of human behavior. This one semester course gives the students the opportunity to explore subjects studied by behavioral scientists, to learn how psychology is applied in solving human problems and to experiment, learn and evaluate methods of research. Students will be challenged to relate psychological concepts to their own lives. This class will encompass a variety of instructional strategies such as lecture and discussion, media presentations, case history analysis, and analytical writing assignments that will challenge the college oriented student to become actively involved in the learning process. This course meets the Social Science distribution requirement for social studies.

AP PSYCHOLOGY — 1 Unit of credit Juniors, Seniors
Prerequisite: U.S. History AP or Department Chair recommendation. This full year course introduces students to the systematic and scientific study of the behavior and mental processes of human beings and other animals. Students are exposed to the psychological facts, principles, and phenomena associated with each of the major subfields within psychology. They also learn about the methods psychologists use in their science and practice. AP Psychology stresses critical thinking, reading, and writing within the context of scientific methodology and questioning. A variety of activities will be provided including lectures, readings, discussions, case study analysis, tests, demonstrations, and research to aid in the learning of the large amount of material to be covered. Students are expected to take the Advanced Placement exam as part of the course. This course fulfills the Social Science distribution requirement in social studies.

SOCIOLOGY — 1/2 Unit of credit Juniors, Seniors
Prerequisite: None
This course is a one semester introduction to sociology and social problems in American society. The emphasis is placed upon students developing an understanding of social systems and the individual's changing role in these systems. This course will investigate different sociological theories while exploring practical applications of these basic theories and other important sociological concepts. Students will use these skills to investigate social issues pertinent to American society in the 21st century. Research projects, outside readings and active class participation are required. A variety of instructional strategies -- lecture, discussion, media, research, cooperative learning, and current events – is used.
This course meets the Social Science distribution requirement for social studies.

UNITED STATES HISTORY CP— 1 Unit of credit Juniors, Seniors
Prerequisite: None. Open to Sophomores with approval of Department Chair
The course begins with a review of exploration, colonization and the revolutionary period. This study of pre-Civil War America continues with Constitutional issues, territorial expansion and sectional differences and builds to an analysis of the Civil War and Reconstruction. The first semester concludes with an examination of the transformations in American society brought by immigration, industrialization and urbanization as well as the emergence of the United States as a world power. The second semester focuses on the domestic and foreign issues faced during the twentieth and twenty-first centuries including war and depression, economic growth, social change and dissent. Writing will be a significant component of this course, including a required research paper. Students in this course must pass the state mandated test on the U.S. Constitution, Declaration of Independence, Display of the Flag and the Illinois Constitution.

AP UNITED STATES HISTORY — 1 Unit of credit Juniors, Seniors
Prerequisite: “B” or better in previous honors or AP social studies course or Department Chair recommendation. A summer reading list and writing assignment are a REQUIRED part of this course. Open to Sophomores with approval of Department Chair.
Employing a variety of methods, the AP United States History course is designed to give students a more in-depth perspective of United States History - culturally, politically and economically. A high reading level and strong motivation is expected of each student. Emphasis is placed on library research and writing skills. AP U.S. History is offered for highly motivated students who have demonstrated an ability to handle a challenging academic program with extensive writing expectations. Students take the state-required test covering the U.S. Constitution, Declaration of Independence, Display of the Flag and the Illinois Constitution. Students are expected to take the Advanced Placement Exam as part of this course. This course satisfies the U.S. History distribution requirement in social studies.

UNITED STATES HISTORY 1 — 1 Unit of credit Juniors, Seniors
Prerequisite: Current teacher or Department Chair recommendation. Open to Sophomores with approval of Department Chair.
This course, for students with reading difficulties, provides a study of the concepts of U.S. History with minor attention given to research skills. Reading materials are simplified and are related to basic concepts in history rather than to an in-depth study of U.S. History. Mastering the vocabulary and terminology relative to U.S. History are important elements of the course. Students take the State required test covering the U.S. Constitution, Declaration of Independence, Display of the Flag and the Illinois Constitution. This course satisfies the U.S. History distribution requirement in social studies.

WORLD CIVILIZATIONS 1 CP — 1 Unit of credit Freshmen, Sophomores
Prerequisite: None
World Civilizations 1 CP is a one-year course which will introduce students to the civilizations and cultures which developed in Africa, Asia, Meso-America and Europe from the earliest prehistory to the eve of the Scientific Revolution and global exploration in the late 16th century. At the end of the one-year course, the students will be familiar with the key concepts, events, and individuals which are vital to an understanding of modern world history. This learning will specifically include ideas, terms, places, times, people and their significance to specific civilizations of the world. Students will also participate in activities and exercises that promote geographic awareness, critical thinking skills, writing instruction and research procedures. This course is intended primarily for first year students and satisfies the Global Studies distribution requirement in social studies.

WORLD CIVILIZATIONS 1 Honors — 1 Unit of credit Freshmen, Sophomores
Prerequisite: Current teacher or Department Chair recommendation World Civilizations 1 Honors is a one-year course for students who have demonstrated the ability and motivation to handle the rigors of a challenging academic program. This class requires studying from a college-level textbook and the ability to write and think critically. World Civilizations 1 Honors covers the period from pre-history to the Renaissance and the Age of Exploration. The course examines political, economic, social and cultural development in Africa, Asia, Europe and the Americas. World Civilizations 1 Honors also emphasizes thinking and study skills which include analysis, synthesis and evaluation of information. A variety of learning activities will be utilized including lectures, cooperative learning, simulations, student presentations, critical book reviews and preparation for the AP World History test to be given at the end of the Sophomore year. World Civilizations 1 Honors satisfies the Global Studies distribution requirement in social studies.

WORLD CIVILIZATIONS 1 — 1 Unit of credit Freshmen, Sophomores
Prerequisite: Current Teacher or Department Chair recommendation
World Civilizations 1 is designed for the student who has reading difficulties and yet desires to pursue the study of human history. The course will introduce students to the civilizations and cultures which developed in Africa, Asia, Meso-America and Europe from the earliest prehistory to the eve of the Scientific Revolution and global exploration in the late 16th century. In addition to geography and current event supplements, the course also provides instruction in such study skills as note taking and active listening. Writing skills will be introduced with particular emphasis being placed on creating thesis statements, body paragraphs, and conclusions.
This course satisfies the Global Studies distribution requirement in social studies.

WORLD CIVILIZATIONS 2 CP — 1 Unit of credit Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors
Prerequisite: None
World Civilizations 2 CP, designed for college-bound students, examines the development of the world's civilizations since the Age of Exploration. It includes the significant developments in the political, cultural, religious, intellectual, social and economic spheres of human endeavor. The course encompasses the civilizations of Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas. These regions are viewed both in their respective contexts as well as within a global framework and the resulting conflict that has marked the modern age. This course emphasizes thinking skills such as analysis, synthesis, and evaluation and, thus, combines a variety of presentation modes (i.e.; lecture, video, readings) with active student participation in discussions, group projects, and oral and written communication. This course is intended primarily for first or second year students and satisfies the Global Studies distribution requirement in social studies.

WORLD CIVILIZATIONS 2 — 1 Unit of credit Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors
Prerequisite: Current teacher or Department Chair recommendation
World Civilizations 2 (the study of human history after the Roman Empire) is a full-year course for students with reading, organizational, and/or note taking difficulties. Reading materials are simplified and are related to the basic concepts of history rather than in-depth study of world civilizations. The course will touch on political, social, economic, and cultural developments. It will emphasize note taking, outlining, critical reading and writing and test-taking skills as well as a limited introduction to historical research. The course is intended for students in their second, third, or fourth year of high school. This course satisfies the Global Studies distribution requirement in social studies.

AP WORLD HISTORY — 1 Unit of credit Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors
Prerequisite: "B" or better in World Civilizations 1 H, A- or better in World Civilizations 1 CP or Department Chair recommendation (student must have taken World Civilizations 1 to be considered for enrollment). A summer reading and writing assignment are REQUIRED components of this course. Encompassing the world's civilization since 1400, AP World History is designed for highly motivated students who have demonstrated the ability to handle a challenging academic program that includes a significant writing component. This course offers motivated students the opportunity to immerse themselves in the processes that, over time, have resulted in the knitting of the world into a tightly integrated whole. Further, AP World History emphasizes analytical communication skills that require the mastery of a three-step process:
a. Identification of relevant information
b. Organization of information in a coherent fashion
c. Presentation of one's findings in written, oral, and or multi-media form.

This course emphasizes critical-thinking skills such as analysis, synthesis and evaluation. Study in AP World History combines a variety of presentation modes (i.e., discussion, cooperative learning, role-playing, multi-media presentations and lecture). AP World History is intended primarily for the second year student. Students are expected to take the Advanced Placement Exam as part of this course. AP World History satisfies the Global Studies distribution requirement in the social studies.


NOTE: Students who enroll in an upper level elective such as Economics, Psychology or Political Science (one semester courses) cannot apply to enroll in the Advanced Placement (AP) courses offered in these areas for the 2nd semester or the next school year after having completed one semester in the elective College Prep course.