History
Philosophy: The primary goal of the faculty of the History Department at AOA is to help students achieve their potential as critical thinkers and active citizens. Besides the focus on an in-depth study of material, skill develpment is stressed at all levels of the curriculum, including primary document analysis, critical reading and writing, geography, research and rhetoric. The department also encourages students to develop technology skills and incorporate them into their learning process through research and presentations. A further goal is to explore all facets of the human experience through social and cultural history - an investigation of the groups and trends that drive history - as well as political and economic movements. The History Department pursues productive working relationships with other departments in order to promote a cross-curricular approach to subjects. Lastly, it is the goal of the department to offer as wide a variety of courses and electives as possible to expose students to diverse subjects and approaches in history and the social sciences. The department stresses a high standard of student achievement that promotes a solid work ethic, fosters self-reliance, and encourages an understanding of global cultures and communities. The faculty also attempts to respect the diversity of the student body - in all forms - in its approach to topics and teaching methods.
World Studies I / English 9 or English 9 Honors
Full year - 1 credit History and English
This combined course is taught through examining world cultures, history, and themes. Students investigate some of the important cultural, religious, political, and intellectual developments in the prehistoric, ancient, and medieval worlds. Areas of focus include Africa, the Americas, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. Emphasis is placed on developing critical thinking and writing skills, as well as the principles an methods of historical research. Students will study works of literature that parallel the historical periods and cultures being examined. A number of research and creative projects are required.
World Studies II (10)
Full year - 1 credit
In this course, the influence of world politics, the arts, economics, science, and religion and their contribution to humankind’s current condition are studied from the Renaissance to the present. Students explore such global themes as cross-cultural encounter, political development, scientific and technological development, the arts, literature, revolution and social change, Africa and Asia before and after imperialism, nationalism, the world wars, communism, fascism, the Holocaust, and post-World War II international developments. Each quarter, students will engage in a collaborative history/art project about various historical themes including social, political, economic, and environmental issues.
United States History (11)
Full year - 1 credit
This course chronologically traces the history of the United States from the period of Exploration and Colonization through the present day. Emphasis is placed upon the development of writing and analytical skills as well as on class discussion. A research paper in conjunction with the English Department is required.
United States History AP (11)
Full year - 1 credit - Prerequisite: Departmental Approval
The advanced placement program in U.S. History is designed to provide students with the analytical skills and factual knowledge necessary to critically examine social, political, and economic issues in American history. The course makes demands upon students equivalent to those of full-year, introductory college courses. Assessment of historical materials, their relevance to a given interpretive problem, their reliability, their overall importance, and the weighing of evidence and interpretations presented in historical scholarship are emphasized. A major research paper in conjunction with the English Department is required. It is expected that students in this course will take the AP test in United States History.
Contemporary Issues (10-12)
1 semester- 1/2 credit
Contemporary Issues is designed to deal in depth with movements, events, and people that have made an impact on today’s society. Topics may change from semester to semester, but generally cover questions such as human and civil rights, race, ethnicity, and economic controversies and how these developed throughout the twentieth century. Students will address questions about their society, themselves, and their relationships.
Economics (10-12)
1 semester- 1/2 credit
Economics provides students with an understanding of the basic principles of economic policies and how individuals, communities, and societies influence and are affected by them. The course integrates economic theory with practical examples and exercises that demonstrate the role of economic theory with practical examples and exercises that demonstrate the role of economic decision-making in students’ lives. Special emphasis is places on the global economy and how it affects national and local economies and politics.
Ethics (10-12)
1 semester- 1/2 credit
Ethics is a course which will stimulate students to identify and delineate ethical issues, to become more aware of value considerations in decision making, and to work toward setting priorities in personal ethical systems. The course will concentrate on selected ideas and moral questions of concern to contemporary authors. Students will be expected to participate in discussions based on assigned readings and on their individual analysis of particular ethical issues.
Government (10-12)
1 semester- 1/2 credit
The government course is designed to explore the features and functions of the United States government and our political system. Students will also have the opportunity to discuss population trends and the effect of these trends on our system. Comparisons between democratic and totalitarian societies are also made. Students are expected to participate in class discussions.
Advocacy for Global Consciousness (10-12)
1 semester- 1/2 credit
Art and music often reflect the voice of a generation. The power of art and music can be utilized to articulate criticism, challenge institutionalized systems of domination, as well as to uphold traditional values and group cohesion. In this course, students will develop an awareness of the multicultural, historical, social, and political contexts in which art and lyrics are created to exist as a form of advocacy. This course will examine the power of freedom of expression and its responsibilities; this course will determine the difference between volunteerism and advocacy. Students will further develop social awareness and a global consciousness by examining the poignant, peaceful protests of many diverse artists and lyricists. The integrity of this course lies within the diversity of its content and a strong commitment to social justice; the course content ranges from the expressions of African American female artist Kara Walker to Cuban male artist Andrews Serrano, from the music of Billie Holiday and Bob Dylan to the Dead Kennedy's and Arrested Development.
Women’s Studies (10-12)
1 semester- 1/2 credit
In this introductory course we will explore the history of women in the United States. We will explore the development of women’s political, social, and economic roles in the United States; the development of the concept of gender; and the diversity of the women’s experiences in terms of class and race. Emphasis will be places on uncovering women’s authentic voices through the use of autobiographies and journals.