The Social Studies Department assumes “primary responsibility” for assisting students in achieving proficiency in Academic Expectations 1 (Writing), 2 (Reading), 5 (Data Analysis), and 8 (Understanding Context). We also acknowledge our collaborative efforts in reinforcing and supporting all of the other academic expectations outlined on page vi of this Program of Studies. The goals and objectives of the course offerings listed below reflect the overall goals of Lexington High School's Social Studies program 9-12. In addition to the areas of primary responsibility listed above, the debate courses also assume primary responsibility for the Academic Expectations 3 (Speaking) and 4 (Listening).
The Social Studies Department offers
programs for each of the four grade levels at the High School:
World History I for grade 9, World History II or Modern World Issues
for grade 10, Issues in United States History and
American Studies for grade 11, and social science
electives for grades 9 through 12. Most social studies courses
require a summer reading assignment and/or project.
Social Studies Quick Reference:
Final Exams
Required Courses
Elective Offerings
Grade 9 through 11 courses that have multiple sections of the same course will have common final examinations amounting to approximately 60% of the entire final. The balance will be written by the individual instructor. Final examinations will account for 10-20% of the grade for any course which has a final as part of its program.
Social Studies Required Courses
Grade 9 Requirement
Courses open to Sophomores
Courses open to Juniors
100 World History I
World History I is unleveled and is taught within a Social Studies/English teamed structure. This course is required of ninth-grade students. All ninth-grade students will be part of a team that works together to build a foundation of knowledge, skills and learning dispositions that will lead to progress in succeeding years. While the course follows a chronological pattern from Ancient Rome to 1350 the focus will be on several major issues and themes. There will be a clear and consistent inclusion of non-western cultures so that the cultural pluralism of our present world can be better appreciated. Current issues will also serve to clarify and illustrate the themes that have continued throughout history. All students will be challenged and guided to the fullest individual achievement possible. The best students will spearhead this cooperative learning program while students who need assistance will be provided with guidance, tutoring and individualized assignments. As part of the ninth-grade team, the students' program of studies will be coordinated with the English curriculum, allowing for the synthesis of skills and content.
Summer reading: TBA
108 Modern World Issues
(paired with English 021)
Prerequisite: Successful completion of
course 100 (World History I) and recommendation of World History I teacher
This course emphasizes the study of the modern world from 1350 to
the present. The course is global in nature examining history throughout the world. It is a presentation of fundamental concepts and principles inherent in the study of history including economic, social, and political forces. There is a strong emphasis placed on the continued development of organization skills, previewing and other reading tactics, note taking, geography, and map reading. Students will be expected to complete regularly assigned reading and writing assignments. Materials employed in this course include primary source documents, selected literature, and a high school level text.
Summer Reading: Tears of the Giraffe (No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency) by Alexander McCall Smith
110 Hon World History II
Prerequisite: B+ or better in World History I and recommendation of
World History I teacher or permission of Social Studies Department
Head in accordance with the procedure as described
previously in “The Course Selection Process”
Study of historical themes and analysis of conflicting viewpoints constitute
the main thrust of this course in modern world history (1350 to
the present). Among western and non-western topics to be studied are
the Renaissance, Reformation, exploration and exchange, industrial
and scientific revolutions, political revolutions, nationalism, totalitarianism,
imperialism, world wars, cold war, political philosophy and life
in the post-war nuclear age. The course is global in focus examining
the aforementioned topics throughout the world. Students will be expected to complete regularly assigned major
reading and writing assignments. Materials employed in this course
include primary source documents, selected world literature and a
college-level text. Both interpretive and research papers are required.
Excellent writing skills are essential for success in this course and extensive
reading is required. Beyond daily class assignments, students
will complete a year-long research assessment project on a topic of
their choosing. As a culminating activity, all students present an oral
defense of their theses to outside panels.
Summer reading: Year of Wonders by Geraldine Brooks
111 Lv 1 World History II
Prerequisite:
Successful completion of World History I and recommendation
of World History I teacher
The study of modern world historical events (1350 to the present)
constitute the main thrust of this course. The course is global in nature
examining history throughout the world.
There will also be an emphasis on analysis of global issues relevant to
the present. Good writing skills are essential for success in this course.
Students will be expected to complete regularly assigned major reading
and writing assignments including short research papers, projects
and presentations. Materials employed in this course include primary
source documents, selected world literature and a high school-level
text.
Summer reading: Tears of the Giraffe (No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency) by Alexander McCall Smith
114 - Hon AP World History
Prerequisite:
A- or better in World History I and recommendation
of World History I teacher or permission of the Social
Studies Department Head in accordance with the procedure as described
previously in “The Course Selection Process”
The focus of this course is to prepare students to take the Advanced
Placement Exam in World history. The course will focus upon the time
period from approximately 6000 B.C.E. to the present. Students will
look at truly global history by identifying global patterns and processes
that have affected human history throughout time. The course
will stress six themes: the impact of interaction, change and continuity,
the impact of technology and demography, social structure and gender,
cultural and intellectual developments, and politics. Students will read
extensively from new scholarship, as well as primary source documents,
literature, and a college level text. Class discussions are important
in this non-lecture based course and will revolve around dilemmas
in world history. Students will be assessed through participation
in reading discussions as well as through extensive writing practice.
Free response essay question practice will include change-over-time
essays as well as comparative essays. Students will also learn the art
of reading, answering, and creating document-based questions. Strong
writing, analytic, and reading skills, as well as a strong work ethic, are
needed to succeed in this class. Students enrolled in this course are
expected to take the AP Exam in World History.
Summer Reading: A History of the World in Six Glasses by Tom Standage
119 Hon - Issues in American History
Prerequisite: Successful completion of courses 108, 110, 111, or 114 and the
recommendation of the World History II teacher or permission of the Social Studies
Department Head in accordance with the procedure as described
previously in “The Course Selection Process”.
This honors level course is designed for students who wish to pursue an advanced
conceptual study of significant issues in American History. Course content focuses on
key controversies and conflicts that helped shape the social, political, economic and
cultural history of the United States from the Civil War and Reconstruction to the present.
Included within the course curriculum is a detailed study of the US Constitution.
Students will be expected to complete regularly assigned reading and writing assignments.
Excellent writing skills are essential for success and a prerequisite for this course.
There is a major research paper requirement in this course. Students should expect
approximately one hour of homework per evening. Materials employed in this course
include primary source documents, selected literature, and a college level text.
Summer Reading: Confederates in the Attic by Tony Horwitz
120 Hon AP United States History
Prerequisite: Successful completion of
courses 108, 110, 111 or 113 and recommendation of the World
History II teacher or permission of the Social Studies
Department Head in accordance with the procedure as described
previously in “The Course Selection Process”
This course is designed for
students who have a strong interest in history as a discipline
and want to work with advanced materials in an enriched
program. Course 120 is a survey of United States History focusing
on key controversies and conflicts which helped to shape the
social, political, economic and diplomatic history of this
nation. Students will acquire a comprehensive knowledge of
American history while developing skills to deal with documentary
and interpretive materials. Class discussions will revolve
primarily around significant issues of each historical period.
Both interpretive and research papers are required. Students will
be expected to complete regularly assigned major reading and
writing assignments. Excellent writing skills are essential for
success in this course. Materials employed in this course include
primary source documents, selected literature and a college-level
text. This course prepares students for the AP exam in U.S.
History.
Summer reading: The Origins of American Slavery by Betty Wood
121 Lv 1 Issues In American History
This course includes a unit on the Constitution but focuses on issues of the post-Civil War to the contemporary era and is taught with greater attention given to the practice and development of academic and thinking skills. There will also be an emphasis on analysis of public issues relevant to the present. A research paper is required. Good writing skills are essential for success in this course. Students will be expected to complete regularly assigned major reading and writing assignments. Materials employed in this course include primary source documents, selected literature and a high school-level text.
Summer reading: Nickle and Dimed by Barbara Ehrenreich
122 Lv 2 Issues in American History
Beginning with a unit on the U.S. Constitution, the primary focus of instruction is on issues of the post-Civil War to the contemporary era. This course is designed to devote more attention and time to both basic and secondary skills. There will also be a greater emphasis placed on the discussion of current public issues. The post-1865 period will be the primary focus. Students will be expected to complete regularly assigned reading and writing assignments. Materials employed in this course include primary source documents, selected literature and a high school-level text.
Summer reading: There Are No Children Here by Alex Kotlowitz
130 Hon American Studies
(Not offered in 2008-2009)
030 English
(Not offered in 2008-2009)
131 Lv 1 American Studies
(Not offered in 2008-2009)
031 English
(Not offered in 2008-2009)
Electives open to grades 9-12:
134 – Law
135 – Child Psychology
152 – Introduction to
Lincoln-Douglas Debate
150 – Introductory Debate
168,169 – Introduction to
Business
Electives open to grades 10-12:
138 – Adolescent
Psychology
151 – Honors Poliy Debate
153 – Honors Lincoln-Douglas Debate
173 – Marketing
Electives open to juniors and seniors:
132 – AP Human Geography
141 – United States Government and Politics
145 – Contemporary China (not offered in 2008-2009)
146 – Modern Japan (not offered in 2008-2009)
155 – International Relations: Focus on Human Rights
156 – Women in Modern World History
160 – Facing History: The Holocaust and Other Genocides
162 – Civil Rights Movement
165 – Race, Gender and Human Behavior
172 – Business Management
Electives open to seniors only
124 – American Popular Culture in the 20th Century
147 – AP Psychology: Theories and Applications
137 – Psychology: Theories and Applications - Level 1
139 – Political Thought - Honors
143 – AP European History
148 – Field Research in America's History
157 – Vietnam
127 – AP Economics
199 – Independent Study(Approval Required)
124 American Popular Culture in the Twentieth Century
Open to seniors only. From vaudeville to television; from Valentino to Elvis; from Stephen Foster to the Beatles; from Houdini to hip hop; from the Model T to muscle cars––what were the cultural styles, trends and myths which linked Americans together throughout the 20th century, and in doing so helped shape our national character?
This course will focus upon trends in popular culture that were embraced by mainstream of Americans in the 20th century. By studying theater, film, music, fashion, television, eating habits, magazines, advertising, cars and other aspects of our culture students will gain a broader understanding of the non-political aspects of American history. The teacher will generally focus on popular entertainment, especially music, film and television while students will be required to do several individual projects on aspects of American popular culture that appeal to their personal interest areas. The goal of this class is to give students an opportunity to view history from a different perspective than focusing primarily on the deeds and accomplishments of great men and women. Course may be taken for honors or level one credit
132 Hon AP Human Geography
Open to juniors and seniors only. This course will provide students with advanced training in thinking spatially about their world. Units of study will focus on demography (population), culture, women, politics, economics, and the environment from geographic perspectives. Through this approach, students will gain an awareness of the relevance of geography in preparing them for the global marketplace. By employing sophisticated technology, students will be able to analyze and interpret geographic data and its connections to economic factors around the globe. The course content prepares students to take the AP Geography exam.
Summer Reading: Students are to choose one of the following five books:
147 Hon AP Psychology
This rigorous, full-year AP Psychology course is designed to introduce students to the scientific study of behavior and mental processes. The fundamental principles of psychology will be introduced with an emphasis on research and application of theory to everyday life. Numerous subfields in psychology will be studied such as perception, learning, motivation, personality and social psychology, among others. There is an additional emphasis on 'active' learning and critical thinking. The course will offer a learning experience equivalent to that obtained in a college introductory course. In addition to a college-level text, there will be substantive required readings, several analytical papers, and an original research project. Students will be prepared to take the AP Psychology exam.
Summer Reading: Opening Skinner's Box by Lauren Slater
135 Lv 1 Child Psychology
This course is designed to introduce students to various aspects of child development including physical growth, intellectual development, personality and social development. The students will gain an awareness of how children think and reason at various ages and how they develop socially as it relates to gender and culture.
137 Lv 1 Psychology: Theories and Applications
Open to seniors only.This course is open to seniors only and is a theory-based college preparatory class. This course explores various aspects of human behavior with an emphasis of theoretical application to everyday life. To that end, there is field work, field trips, films and a psychology fair. There is also a focus on group work and discussion. The text used is at the high-school level. We begin with the history of psychology and continue with such topics as learning theories, personality development, research and social psychology.
138 Adolescent Psychology
Open to sophomores, juniors and seniors. Adolescence is a time of change, growth, experimentation and development of identity. The course will address the physical, psychoanalytical, social and cognitive development of the adolescent. Units examining various psychological perspectives, personality development, communications, behavior modification and adolescent depression will be discussed. Students may elect to take this course for honors or level 1 credit
134 Introduction to Law
This course addresses the “Bill of Rights,” criminal law, civil law, contemporary legal issues and cases, and great trials in American History. Students will participate in mock class trials, discussions, readings and class activities. Students may select level designation Honors or Level 1 credit. Instruction and assignments will be differentiated for students based on their choice of level.
139 Hon Political Thought
Prerequisite: Successful completion of
United States History, Issues in American History, American
Studies or permission of the Social Studies Department Head in accordance with the
procedure as described previously in “The Course Selection
Process”
Open to seniors only. This course examines the
ideas of 19th- and 20th-century political movements –
nationalism, liberalism, socialism and communism, elitism and
fascism. Extensive outside reading is a component of this course.
A short, analytical paper is required for each unit.
Summer reading: The Prince by Machievelli
141 U.S. Government and Politics
U.S. Government and Politics will give students an analytical perspective on government and politics in the United States. This course includes both the study of the national government structure and general concepts used to interpret U.S. politics. Students will gain a familiarity with the various institutions, groups, beliefs and ideas that constitute U.S. politics. Students may elect to take this course for honors or level 1 credit.
Summer reading: Hardball by Chris Matthews
143 Hon AP European History
Prerequisite: Recommendation of
U.S. History teacher
Open to seniors only.The
focus of this course is to prepare students to take the Advanced
Placement Exam in European History. In addition to providing a
basic narrative of events and movements in European History from
1450 to the present, there are four goals addressed in this
course: 1) to develop an understanding of the principal themes in
Modern European History; 2) to develop an ability to analyze
historical evidence; 3) to develop historical habits of mind;
and, 4) to develop an ability to express historical understanding
in writing. The major categories for study will be Intellectual
and Cultural History, Political and Diplomatic History, and
Social and Economic History. Class discussions will revolve
primarily around significant issues in European History. Both
interpretive and research papers are required. Students will be
expected to complete regularly assigned major reading and writing
assignments. Excellent writing skills are essential for success
in this course. Materials employed in this course include primary
source documents, selected literature and a college-level text.
Students enrolled in this course are expected to take the AP Exam
in European History.
Summer reading: A World Lit Only By Fire: The Medieval Mind and the Renaissance by William Manchester
148 Hon Field Research in America's History
Prerequisite: Successful completion of
Issues in United States History or American Studies and
permission of the Social Studies Department Head in accordance with the procedure as described
previously in “The Course Selection Process”
Open to seniors who have completed a year of United States History. Due to the nature of this course, enrollment is limited and is available only with the permission of the Social Studies Coordinator.
This course will acquaint students with the process of researching and writing history. With a wealth of readily available primary sources, Lexington's history will serve as the context for investigation. The Lexington Historical Society archives, materials in Lexington Room at Cary Library, Town Hall records, and the National Archives Northeast Branch are among the local resources the class will use. Besides shorter writing assignments, the centerpiece of the course requires students to craft a piece of original research regarding the town's history. Students will learn to analyze a variety of evidence such as gravestone iconography, census records, photographs, oral history diaries, film. In addition, the class will address broader issues of historical interpretation and what makes “good” history.
Summer reading: Lexington: From Liberty's Birthplace to Progressive Suburb by Richard Kollen
145 Contemporary China
(Not offered in 2008-2009)
Open to juniors and seniors. This semester course is designed as a cultural introduction to contemporary China. The foundation of this course includes a study of the geography, religions/philosophies, history, cultural life styles, arts and evolutionary revolutions that comprise the medium for understanding 20th-century China. Comparative studies will be drawn between China and other major leaders of the Pacific Rim. A contemporary issues project will be required. Students may select level designation (Honors or Level 1) for course credit. Instruction and assignments will be differentiated for students based on their choice of level.
146 Modern Japan
(Not offered in 2008-2009)
Japan has played a major role in world history for the past 140 years and will continue to be important well into the 21st century. The U.S. and Japan have engaged in a lively cultural exchange, and large numbers of Japanese have immigrated to the U.S. Moreover, as the world's second largest economy, one of the United States' largest trading partners, and as one of America's closest allies in the Pacific rim, it is important for Americans to understand Japanese society.
This course by nature is interdisciplinary. Contemporary Japan will, of course, strengthen the student's social studies skills, but also emphasize the arts and literature of Japan. Reading, writing, research, and study skills will be reinforced. Field trips to the Peabody-Essex and Museum of Fine Arts will be conducted. Students mat elect to take this course for honors or level 1 credit
150 Lv 1 Introduction to Policy Debate
TThis is an introductory course in policy style team debate and other oral competition. Thinking skills, current events, research, and oral expression are stressed. Students will work closely with both a partner in the class and a mentor from the varsity program. Policy students learn how to advocate for themselves and consider all sides of an issue. All students participate in interscholastic forensics tournaments. Afterschool practice is not required. Weekend travel in the Northeastern United States is involved, with most expenses paid. Prizes may result from tournament competition. This course is required for any student who wants to compete interscholastically in the nationally-ranked policy team while at Lexington High School. The Policy format differs from Lincoln-Douglas debate in its emphasis on research and current events. You need no previous experience to start, although it helps if you like to think and argue!
Note: Fundraising efforts are aided by an active parents organization which all parents are invited to join.
151 Hon Policy Debate
Prerequisite: Permission of the
instructor required for students who have successfully completed 150
This course
explores argumentation theory, attempts to prepare debaters for
varsity competition and introduces additional forensic
activities. Interscholastic forensic competition and after-school practices are
required.
Note: Fundraising efforts are aided by an active parents organization which all parents are invited to join.
152
Lv 1 Introduction to Lincoln-Douglas Debate
This is an introductory course in competitive speaking and the requirements of formal one-on-one Lincoln-Douglas debate. Thinking skills, development of skills of philosophical reasoning, and oral argument are stressed. Like Policy Debate, students are required to participate in interscholastic tournaments that involve regional weekend travel with most expenses paid and in which they may win awards. Weekly practice after school is also required. Lincoln-Douglas debaters compete on multiple resolutions, which have ranged in the past from topics such as environmental law to First Amendment rights. This course is required for any student who wants to compete interscholastically in Lincoln-Douglas or Public Forum debate while at Lexington High School. The Lincoln-Douglas format differs from team policy debate in its emphasis on writing and philosophy. This course has no prerequisites.
Note: Fundraising efforts are aided by an active parents organization which all parents are invited to join.
153 Hon Lincoln-Douglas Debate
Prerequisite:
Permission of the instructor required. For students who
have successfully completed 152.
This course explores argumentation theory and advanced philosophical concepts in order to prepare
debaters for varsity competition. Interscholastic forensic competition is required.
Note: Fundraising efforts are aided by an active parents organization which all parents are invited to join.
155 International Relations: Focus on Human Rights
Prerequisite: Successful completion of
courses 100 and 109, 110 or 111
Open to juniors and seniors. Human rights, broadly defined, include
the right to food, justice, education, peace and freedom from persecution.
This course will examine the evolution of the concept of individual rights
in international law. We will focus on the role international organizations,
and international treaties have had on codifying modern notions of
human rights. The class will look specifi cally at the tribunals that have
prosecuted war crimes and crimes against humanity. This course will
not address the issue of genocide in any depth. We will then explore the
class, gender and racial power plays that have resulted in human rights
violations. We will also debate to what degree economic justice is a human
right. Students will research specific country positions and topics
in order to participate in a Mock United Nation conference. The final
project revolves around oral history research on human rights work in
the world today. Keeping up with current events is essential. Summer
reading will involve reading one of several novels to be decided upon
in June. Students may select level designation (Honors or Level 1) for
course credit. Instruction and assignments will be differentiated for students
based on their choice of level.
Summer Reading: Choose one of the following books. Please consult
the department website in June for annotations to help in choosing the
best book for you.
Iran Awakening: A Memoir or Revolution and Hope by Shirin Ibadi
Don't Be Afraid, Gringo: An Honduran Woman Speaks from the
Heart: The Story of Elvia Alvarado by Benjamin Medea
Mountains Beyond Mountains: The Quest of Dr.Paul Farmer, A Man
Who Would Cure the World by Tracy Kidder
Three Cups of Tea: One Man's Mission to Fight Terrorism and Build
Nations...One School at a Time by Mortenson and Relin
The End of Poverty: Economic Possibilities for Our Time by Jeffrey
Sachs
Unbowed by Wangari Maathai
156 Social Studies Seminar
Women in Modern World History
Open to juniors and seniors.Women, despite being “half of history,” have not received credit for their endeavors. This course will focus on the role of women in Modern World History as viewed through primary and secondary sources. The course expectations for students enrolled in this seminar include making class presentations individually and in teams, conducting class discussions and completing extensive reading and writing assignments. Students may select level designation (Honors or Level I) for course credit. Instruction and assignments will be differentiated for students based on their choice of level.
Summer reading: TBA
157 The American Experience in Vietnam
Prerequisite: Successful completion
of United States History, Issues in American History, American
Studies or permission of the Social Studies Department Head
Open to seniors only. Why did the United States get involved in Vietnam? What did we do there? Why did the Vietnam War turn out so badly for the United States? How did that war profoundly affect life in America? What are the historical lessons to be learned from the Vietnam experience?
This course will attempt to answer these questions by studying the people and history of Vietnam as well American Cold War policies which led to our involvement in that country. In addition a large segment of this course will be dedicated to studying what the war was like for the men and women who served in Vietnam and how the war divided and changed the American homefront.
Students will do extensive readings on the formation of U.S. policies, on the domestic political debates which framed the war controversy and of personal narratives of those who served during the war. Videos and films of that era will be used extensively in this course. Guest speakers will also be invited to the class to talk about their experiences during that time.
All students will be expected to write at least three critical papers as well as interview a person who was in Vietnam at the time of the war. This course is offered for either honors or level one credit; student work will be graded according to the level they choose. All students taking this course for honors credit will be expected to do at least one formal presentation to the class. Students may elect to take this course for honors or level 1 credit.
Summer Readings: Students are asked to read one of the six books listed below as summer reading. They will be required to write a paper on it early in the semester.
Books: These Good Men by Michael Norman, The Sorrow of War by Bao Dinh, Born on the Fourth of July by Ron Kovic, American Requiem by James Carroll, Dispatches by Michael Herr and A Rumor of War by Phillip Caputo.
127 AP Economics
The purpose of this course in micro and macroeconomics is to provide students with a thorough understanding of the principles of economics that apply to economic systems. Students will develop an economic way of thinking and problem solving for decisions they will make as consumers, members of the work force, citizens, voters, and participants in a larger economic system and global marketplace. The course places particular emphasis on the study of national income and price determination and develops students' familiarity with economic performance measures, economic growth, and international economics. Students will have the opportunity to compete in the Annual National Council on Economic Education Economics Challenge. This course will prepare students for the AP exams in microeconomic and macroeconomics.
Summer Reading: Undressing the Dismal Science by Charles Wheelan
160 Facing History and Ourselves: The Holocaust and Other Genocides
Students will examine the Holocaust, the Rwandan genocide, the Armenian genocide and the Cambodian genocide in an attempt to understand how these atrocities began, what role “ordinary” citizens had in the genocides, and what we can do today to keep crimes against humanity from occurring again. Students will examine the reaction of other countries, especially the United States, to these genocides. Students will also examine ideas of justice and how to achieve justice after atrocities. They will examine their roles and responsibilities as American and global citizens and the potential for wide-reaching impact that every individual has daily. By examining crimes against humanity, students have the opportunity to refl ect not only upon the universality of racism and social injustice but also upon the importance of global awareness.
Summer Reading: The Sunflower by Simon Wiesenthal
165 - Race, Gender, and Human Behavior
Open to juniors and seniors only This course will examine ideas of race and gender and the notion of difference: What do you do with a difference? What has our society done with a difference? How has difference resulted in discrimination? These concepts and questions will be considered by examining what happens in a society when people are identified and assigned a social value based on these "differences." Students begin this examination by looking at the realities & fictions of race and gender: what is race? What is gender? How are they understood by our society at large? How do we understand both of these concepts? How do they relate to power? What can we do to stop the discrimination that has resulted from perceived differences? These ideas will be examined through readings, films and discussion.
Summer Reading: The Color of Water by James McBride
162 The Civil Rights Movement
Open to juniors and seniors only“We want our freedom and we want it now,” said John Lewis on August 28,1963 during the famous March on Washington. This course is open to juniors and seniors. The goal of this course will be to analyze the quest for freedom of “Ordinary Americans” in the twentieth century. We will focus on the African American Civil Rights Movement and its legacy. Topics will include: the early movement; the rise of the Southern Christian Leadership Council; the movement in the North; the Nation of Islam; the Black Panther Party; and the Boston Busing Crisis. Students will come to realize the impact that the movement had on their education and the Lexington community.
All students will write two to three analytical papers as well as an interview about 'historical memory'.This course is offered for either honors or level one credit; student work will be graded according to the level they choose. Students will be expected to write a book review and read supplementary reading. Course may be taken for honors or level 1 credit.
Summer Reading: TBA
168 Lv 1 Introduction to Business, Part I
169 Lv 1 Introduction to Business, Part II
Open to grades 9-12. It is recommended that Parts I and II be taken sequentially. This course is designed to help students become knowledgeable consumers, informed citizens, and productive workers in today's changing world. Through projects, reports and classroom discussions, students learn to develop an awareness of business practices and procedures that will influence their daily lives. Special units include a study of careers and ways to invest money. Speakers are used as an integral part of the course. Macintosh and PC computers will be used for word processing, spreadsheet, powerpoint and database applications as well as internet research.
172 Lv 1 Business Management
Open to juniors and seniors.These dynamic and demanding times make it necessary for students to develop an understanding of business. This course will prepare you for a diversified work force and a global economy. A broad perspective of the business organization will be included. Special units include: starting your own business, the social responsibility of business, personnel challenges facing business, sexual harassment in business, labor relations, leadership, and business ethics. Speakers on selected topics are part of this course.
173 Lv 1 Marketing
Open to sophomores, juniors and seniors.Why are some products and services successful in the economic life of our country while other products never reach the consumer? This course is designed to help students become knowledgeable about the process of marketing from concept to sale. Topics covered include the development of product based on demand, the response to demand, marketing surveys,the development of a marketing plan, production, advertising and promotion. Learn the functions of marketing as practiced in business and industry today. Case studies and the creation of various marketing strategies are included in the course. The art and psychology of effective marketing techniques will also be covered.
199 Independent Study
This elective is a planned program of study in history, geography or social science undertaken by an individual student under the guidance of a member of the Social Studies staff. The plan must represent an area of study not currently offered within the Social Studies program for senior students. A written contract between a Social Studies staff member and the student must be formally approved in writing by the Social Studies Department Head prior to the beginning of the fall or spring semester. This offering is only open to members of the senior class. This course will be graded on a pass/fail basis.
Posted January 29, 2008 by Steve Ellis,
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