DEPARTMENT PURPOSE
The social studies curriculum is designed to show how people interact with others in many aspects of life. All courses are taught in the light of the gospel of Jesus Christ, through which students develop their human relations skills.

People and their struggles of the past and present are studied so that students may be better equipped to deal with the present and the future. Ultimately, the aim of the Concordia Academy Social Studies Department curriculum is to help the students to develop their full potential as Christian citizens among the community of believers and in the world.

CONCEPT LEVEL LEARNER OUTCOMES:
The students will:

1. 1. Become competent, participating, and loyal citizens.
2. 2. Develop a perspective on their own lives as they see themselves as part of the whole human experience.
3. 3. Better understand the history, geography, economics, politics, social and religious institutions, traditions, and values of the world.
4. 4. Develop critical attitudes and analytical perspectives appropriate to analysis of the human conditions.
5. 5. See the hand of God in the history of the human experience and acquire better understanding of God’s loving relationship seen in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
6. 6. Develop critical thinking and discussion skills.
7. 7. Enhance map, research, and writing skills.
8. 8. Improve human relations skills including empathy, cooperation, and understanding of others.
9. 9. Interpret and understand the current events in the world around them.

COURSES OFFERED

• Ancient World History
• Modern World History
• American History
• American Government
• Geography
• Sociology
• Psychology
• History 231-College American History
• History 233- College American History
• Economics
• Pol 131-College American Government (online)

Ancient World History. (Grades 9-10) Ancient World History is the study of man’s origin, development, and achievements from the beginning of time and proceeding through the Age of Exploration. Students recognize the hand of God in the development of nations and strive to appreciate His love and patience in dealing with humankind. In order to appreciate the good and avoid repetition of the bad, this course examines both successes and failures of human history. It is hoped that past civilizations and cultures can teach us the importance and wisdom of living together in peace and understanding. Current events will also be analyzed in light of the history of the past to better understand the present. (One semester, 1 credit. Required for graduation.)

Modern World History. (Grades 10-12)
Modern World History is the study of the development of nations from the Global Age to the present. The course analyzes the roles individuals and groups have played in shaping the nations of the world and helps the students begin to see their role in that continuing development. Students also recognize the hand of God in the development of nations and strive to appreciate His love for humankind. Current events are analyzed in light of the history of the past to better understand the present. (Prerequisite: Ancient World History. One semester, 1 credit.)

American History. (Grades 11-12) American History is designed to acquaint the student with the development of the United States from colonization to the 21st Century. The course analyzes the roles which individuals and groups have played in shaping the USA and helps the students begin to see their own roles in that continuing development. It is hoped that the student can better understand the USA of the present by learning about the USA of the past. The course aims to find God in the history of the USA by trying to understand His purpose for the American people. (One semester, 1 credit. American History or History 1301/1302 required for graduation.)

American Government. (Grade 12) American Government reviews the constitutional background of our nation’s government and explores the current challenges inherent in a democracy. A primary goal for the course is to encourage students to act responsibly as citizens. Course content will include, but is not limited to: the Constitution; the three branches of government; the American party system; and the connections between economics and politics. Emphasis will also be placed on the role of the Christian citizen. (One quarter, .5 credit. Required for graduation.)

Geography. (Grades 11-12) Geography is designed to acquaint the student with the earth and how it “works.” Climates, ecosystems, and resources are analyzed in light of mankind’s relationship with them. Various portions of the continents are studied in detail. It is hoped that the students will better understand the complexities of the earth, which God has given us and become better stewards of it. (One quarter, .5 credit.)

Sociology. (Grades 11-12) This quarter elective is an introduction to the field of sociology, the science that explores the interaction of people in groups. The concepts of culture, society, collective behavior and various social problems will be examined from a Christian perspective. Students will examine their own life in light of these sociological concepts, not only as an individual, but a member of society as a whole. (One quarter, .5 credit.)

Psychology. (Grades 11-12) Psychology and give students a grasp of the basic concepts, theories and applications of the field. Focus of the course will center on the intent that students will eventually further their psychological studies in a post-secondary institution. (One quarter, .5 credit.)

History 231-College American History. grades 11-12 This course is a survey of political, economic, and social history of the United States from the begginings of the republic through the Civil War and Reconstruction. This course is offered through Concordia University, St. Paul. Students will recieve four college credits from Concordia University as well as .5 high school credits.
This is a program for advanced high school students. (Prerequisite 3.0 GPA and permission of instructor)

History 233- College American History. grades 11-12 This course is a survey of political, economic, and social history of the United States from 1877 to the present. This course is offered through Concordia University, St. Paul. Students will recieve four college credits from Concordia University as well as .5 high school credits. This is a program for advanced high school students. (Prerequisite 3.0 GPA and permission of instructor)

Economics. Grade 12 This elective is an introduction to the world of economics. Microeconomic concepts studied include: supply and demand, price determination, market structures and business organizations. Macroeconomic topics include: unemployment/inflation, fiscal policy, money/banking, monetary policy, taxes and the national debt. International trade, exchange rates, and economic growth/development are discussed along with an awareness of current events. (One quarter, .5 credit.)

Pol 131-College American Government (online). grades 11-12 This course introduces students to mechanics, institutions, problems, and principles of American national government. it stresses the relationship of constitutional principles to American political practice. Emphasis is placed on change in the politcal environment and judicial interpretation of constitutional tenants as major factors in a viable and dynamic American political system. Ratial and ethnic minorities are also examined in this course. This course is taught online with one day a week of chat room on campus and is offered through Concordia University, St. Paul. Students will recieve 4 college credits from Concordia University as well as .5 high school credits. This is a program for advanced high school students. (Prerequisite 3.0 GPA and permission of instructor)