Social Studies

Global History & Geography I Honors challenges students to explore world history. The course includes units on the first civilizations, classical societies, expanding global connections and global interactions from 1400-1750. Within these units, students will be introduced to the practices of historians such as gathering, interpreting and using evidence, chronological reasoning and causation, comparing and contextualizing, geographic reasoning, evaluating economic systems and civic participation. Upon completion, this course will provide the necessary skills for students to successfully enter an AP course of study.

AP World History develops a greater understanding of the evolution of global processes and different types of human societies. This understanding is advanced through a combination of selective factual knowledge and appropriate analytical skills. The course highlights the nature of changes in international frameworks and their causes and consequences, as well as comparisons among major societies. The course also emphasizes relevant factual knowledge deployed in conjunction with leading interpretive issues and types of historical evidence. Focused primarily on the past thousand years of global experience, the course builds on an understanding of cultural, institutional and technological precedents that – along with geography – set the human stage prior to 1,000 C.E. (Common Era). Specific themes provide further organization to the course, along with the consistent attention to contact among societies that form the core of world history as a field of study. AP exam is given at the end of the course. AP exam fee applies; fee waiver or reduction may be available.

This course centers on the cooperative discovery of history and literature throughout the world from the 18^th century to present global issues. It is designed to help students establish connections between the political ideas, movements and events that have shaped the world and the literary movements that have created global cultures. Chronological and topical approaches to literature and history provide the framework for the study of world experiences. Students will read a variety of short and longer texts that complement the exploration of world history and relevant primary source documents.

This course supports preparation for the New York State Regents examination in English Language Arts administered at the end of eleventh grade, and also culminates with the New York State Regents examination in Global History and Geography, which is a graduation requirement.

This course includes units on revolutions, industrialization and empires, crises and achievements of the twentieth century, and contemporary issues. Within these units, students will be introduced to the practices of historians such as gathering, interpreting and using evidence, chronological reasoning and causation, comparing and contextualizing, geographic reasoning, evaluating economic systems and civic participation. Upon completion, this course will provide the necessary skills for students to successfully enter an AP course of study.

This course culminates with the New York State Regents examination in Global History and Geography.

AP European History is designed to be the equivalent of a two-semester introductory European history college course. In AP European History, students investigate significant events, individuals, developments and processes in four historical periods from approximately 1450 to the present. Students develop and use the same skills, practices and methods employed by historians: analyzing historical evidence, contextualization, comparison, causation, change and continuity over time, and argument development. The course also provides six themes that students explore throughout the course in order to make connections among historical developments in different times and places: interaction of Europe and the world; poverty and prosperity; objective knowledge and subjective visions; states and other institutions of power; individual and society; and national and European identity. An AP exam and a Regents exam in Global History and Geography are given at the end of the course. AP exam fee applies. Fee waiver or reduction may be available.

This course is a chronologically organized study of major eras in United States history and government, with an emphasis on the post-industrial nation. The course is divided into seven major eras including: constitutional foundations; industrialization of the U.S.; progressive responses to industrialization at home and abroad; prosperity and depression; the United States in the age of global crisis; a world in uncertain times (1950-1980); and 1980-present. Upon completion, this course will provide the necessary skills for students to successfully enter an AP course of study.

This course culminates in the New York State Regents examination in U.S. History and Government.

This course centers on the cooperative discovery of the history and literature of the United States. It is designed to help students establish connections between the political ideas, movements and events that shaped our country and the artistic movements that have created our culture. Chronological and topical approaches to literature and history provide the framework for the study of the American experience. Students read a variety of short and longer texts that complement the exploration of United States history and primary source documents including the U.S. Constitution and landmark Supreme Court cases.

This course culminates with the New York State Regents examinations in both U.S. History and Government and English Language Arts, which are graduation requirements.

The IB program in history is an intensive two year study of the Group 3 area of Individuals and Societies. This course is designed to provide highly motivated students with a rigorous program that will examine various aspects of history in great depth. In addition to extensive content knowledge, students will obtain reading, writing, research and critical thinking skills commensurate with the best college students. An emphasis also will be placed on preparing students for success on the U.S. History and Government Regents exam. Exam fees apply. Fee waiver or reduction may be available to eligible students.

AP U.S. History is designed to be the equivalent of a two-semester introductory U.S. history college course. Students investigate significant events, individuals, developments and processes in nine historical periods from approximately 1491 to the present. Students develop and use the same skills, practices and methods employed by historians: analyzing primary and secondary sources; making historical comparisons; utilizing reasoning about contextualization, causation and continuity and change over time; and developing historical arguments. The course also provides seven themes that students explore in order to make connections among historical developments in different times and places: American and national identity; migration and settlement; politics and power; work, exchange and technology; America in the world; geography and the environment; and culture and society. An AP exam and a Regents exam in US History and Government are given at the end of the course. AP exam fee applies. Fee waiver or reduction may be available.

AP U.S. Government and Politics provides students an analytical perspective on government and politics in the United States. This course includes both the study of general concepts used to interpret U.S. politics and the analysis of specific examples. It also requires familiarity with the various institutions, groups, beliefs and ideas that constitute U.S. politics. Topics include: constitutional underpinnings of U.S. government; political beliefs and behaviors; political parties; interest groups and mass media; and institutions of national government and public policy. An AP exam is given at the end of the course. AP exam fee applies; fee waiver or reduction may be available.

This course prepares students for civic engagement, as well as domestic and global citizenry. Students will analyze, monitor and discuss governmental issues and policies. Economic theory and principles are woven throughout this course with an emphasis on evidence-based decision making and consumer awareness. This course is designed to encourage students to believe in the power of their own voice and actions. Students will demonstrate respect for the rights of others, engage in debates that are supported with evidence, think critically about information that is presented through the lens of their own personal beliefs and analysis, develop political awareness, economic knowledge and personal skills that will enable them to function as an informed, active and engaged citizens. Students will be able to apply theory and concepts to real world problems and be prepared to apply their civic voice to their communities, including local, state and national forums. This course will culminate in a capstone project that will require students to engage in research, writing and a formal presentation to potentially earn the NYS Seal of Civic Readiness, which is a formal recognition that a student has attained a high level of proficiency in terms of civic knowledge, civic skills, civic mindset and civic experiences.

This course gives students a thorough understanding of the principles of economics that apply to the functions of individual decision makers – both consumers and producers – within the larger economic system. It places primary emphasis on the nature and functions of product markets and includes the study of factor markets and the role of government in promoting greater efficiency and equity in the economy. An AP exam is given at the end of this course. AP exam fee applies; fee waiver or reduction may be available.

This is the second year of the Group 3 Higher Level course. It is a required class for all IB Diploma candidates but is also offered as a Certificate Class to any Albany High student who has met basic IB prerequisites. This course is a study of the major events of the 20th century and how they shaped the world we live in today, with a deeper focus on the following topics: the causes, practices and effects of 20th-century wars, authoritarian and single party states, the Cold War and the rise of aggressive nations (Germany, Italy and Japan) in the lead-up to World War II. This course also offers students an opportunity to engage in college-level research of a historical topic. Students will pick a research topic and be guided through the process of finding sources, analyzing them and organizing them into a research paper. IB registration and exam fee applies; fee waiver or reduction may be available. This course may be taken in lieu of Participation in Government and all Economics classes.

AP Psychology introduces students to systematic and scientific study of human and animal behavior. This course will help students develop an understanding of some of the principal themes of modern psychology, an ability to critically analyze data, and an ability to express psychological understanding both orally and through writing. This course culminates with students taking the AP Psychology exam.

Anthropology offers a comprehensive introduction to the study of human societies, cultures and their development, examining the diversity of human experiences across time and space. The one-semester course aims to provide an overview of how humankind has developed and the direction of civilization in the 21^st century. By examining various anthropological perspectives, students will learn that no matter how different, human behaviors share commonalities across cultures.  Anthropology focuses on the development of culture through the examination of current norms and the study of folklore including urban legends, fairy tales, cryptids, and cultural practices. Students will engage with folklore collections, folk activities and learn how to collect their own folklore as well as create or or adjust existing folklore to better represent the society they live in.

Sociology introduces students to the scientific study of society, human behavior  and social interactions, providing a foundational understanding of key sociological concepts, theories, and research methods. This one-semester course explores how culture, social structures, and institutions shape individual and group experiences, emphasizing critical thinking, cultural awareness and ethical considerations. Students will investigate topics such as socialization, social stratification, cultural diversity and the impact of social change on communities. They will analyze contemporary social issues, including family dynamics, child and sexual abuse, violence, sex discrimination, addiction, media influences, and population and environmental challenges. Through examining primary and secondary sources, engaging in collaborative discussions and constructing evidence-based arguments, students will develop civic competence and a deeper understanding of American society and the diverse world around them. Instructional methods include class discussions and multimedia resources,  and fostering an interactive and insightful learning environment.

Ethics and Moral Philosophy is a course that challenges students to learn and acquire the skills necessary to think about, analyze and discuss ethical dilemmas including concepts related to what it means to be “good” and an analysis of the philosophers who have shaped our thinking around these difficult questions such as Plato, Aristotle, Augustine, Thomas Aquinas and Emmanuel Kant.

This is an interdisciplinary course that offers a comprehensive exploration of African American history, culture and contributions from pre-colonial Africa to the present day. Students will examine the diverse experiences, struggles and triumphs of African Americans, emphasizing their pivotal role in shaping American society. Grounded in the New York State Learning Standards, this course integrates history, literature, art and civic engagement to foster a nuanced understanding of social justice, identity and cultural heritage.

Through direct encounters with authentic and varied sources, students will explore key topics ranging from the early African kingdoms to the ongoing challenges and achievements of contemporary Black communities. This course outlines the rich diversity within African American experiences and situates them within the broader context of Africa and the African diaspora. By engaging with interdisciplinary perspectives, students will develop critical insights into the complexity and resilience of Black communities and their enduring impact on American and global culture.

Theory of Knowledge (TOK) is the core course of the IB experience. It is central to the educational philosophy of the diploma program, offering students and their teachers the opportunity to reflect critically on what knowledge is in various cultures and at various times. How we know what we know and how we learned it are central to the TOK experience. The following is from the IB course description booklet, “The stated aim of TOK is that students should become aware of the interpretive nature of knowledge, including personal and ideological biases, regardless of whether, ultimately, these biases are retained, revised, or rejected.” TOK encourages the intercultural understanding central to today’s globally interdependent world. The external assessment will be based on a 1,200- to 1,600- word essay written on a topic prescribed by IB. Internal assessments will be based on teacher-rated student presentations.

Theory of Knowledge (TOK) is the core course of the IB experience. It is central to the educational philosophy of the diploma program, offering students and their teachers the opportunity to reflect critically on what knowledge is in various cultures and at various times. How we know what we know and how we learned it are central to the TOK experience. The following is from the IB course description booklet, “The stated aim of TOK is that students should become aware of the interpretive nature of knowledge, including personal and ideological biases, regardless of whether, ultimately, these biases are retained, revised, or rejected.” TOK encourages the intercultural understanding central to today’s globally interdependent world. The external assessment will be based on a 1,200- to 1,600- word essay written on a topic prescribed by IB. Internal assessments will be based on teacher-rated student presentations.

Student Leadership is a year-long course designed for students who wish to hone in on learning key leadership skills. Students will participate in engaging, hands-on activities and simulations that will enable them to practice essential academic, social and emotional skills, such as critical thinking, goal setting, decision-making, time management, teamwork and communication. 

Students taking this course should be interested in improving their leadership skills and the opportunity to become peer leaders to serve as positive role models, discussion leaders and mentors for ninth-graders. 

This course will also allow students to earn credit toward the Seal of Civic Readiness which is a formal recognition that a student has attained a high level of proficiency in terms of civic knowledge, civic skills, civic mindset and civic experiences.

Civil and Criminal Law provides practical information and problem-solving opportunities regarding the law. Students develop both knowledge of the law and skills necessary for survival in our law-based society.  Students engage in active learning experiences such as mock trials, moot courts, role play, case studies, simulations and small group exercises. Students explore the definition of law, citizen rights and responsibilities under the law, learn methods of dispute resolution, and how to identify and analyze public issues. Exploration of legal careers will be a theme woven throughout the course.

Global History & Geography Themes I and II are each one-semester courses designed for students who need additional support in preparing for the Regents exam in Global History and Geography after successfully completing the course. The objective of this course is to utilize and improve literacy skills through the lens of world history. Students will explore world history in a variety of ways, predominantly through the use of primary and secondary sources which include reading passages, analysis of historical perspective/bias, charts, graphs and map interpretation. In this course, we will use a theme-based approach to analyze enduring issues and topics in world history. This course will chart changes and continuities along with similarities and differences that exist in the major domains of history: social, political, economic, interactions and culture. Students will earn a half-credit or whole credit once successful on this exam.

United States Themes I and II are each one-semester courses designed for students who need additional support in preparing for the Regents exam in US History and Government after successfully completing the course. The objective of this course is to utilize and improve literacy skills through the lens of US History. Students will explore US History in a variety of ways, predominantly through the use of primary and secondary sources which include reading passages, analysis of cause and effect, similarities and differences, turning points in US History as well as charts, graphs and map interpretation. In this course, we will use a theme-based approach to analyze the historical context of events in US History as well as constitutional and civic issues. Students will earn a half-credit or whole credit once successful on this exam.