Social Studies Curriculum
Units/Materials

Europe During Medieval Times
Text: History Alive
            Primary Source materials            MindSparks
Development of Europe after the fall of the Roman Empire

Rise of Islam
Text: History Alive
            Primary Source materials            MindSparks
The rise of Islam and the history of Muslim empires

Culture and Kingdoms of West Africa
Text: History Alive
            Primary Source Materials            MindSparks
Exploration of the history and culture of West Africa

Imperial China
Text: History Alive
            Primary Source Material           
Jackdaws            Mind Sparks
Exploration of Imperial China from 220 to 1644 c.e.

Japan During Medieval Times
Text: History Alive
Primary Source Material
Jackdaws            Mind Sparks
Exploration of the civilization of Japan 500 to 1700 c.e.

Civilizations of the Americas
Text: History Alive
         Primary Source Material
Study of the Maya, Aztecs, and Incas           

Europe’s Renaissance and Reformation
Text: History Alive
            Primary Source Material            MindSparks
Development of Europe After the Middle Ages

Europe Enters the Modern Age
Text: History Alive
            Primary Source Material
Development of Europe from the 1400’s to the 1700”s

Pre-AP Honors Social Studies Curriculum
Advanced Expectations

What AP-Honors Looks Like
- Increased study using primary resources
- Independent research
- Formal research papers
- Formal presentation of cumulative project
   each trimester (menu of choices)
- Making connections, applying, and
  synthesizing knowledge
- Required reading each trimester (e.g.,
  historical novels, biographies, or histories)
  followed by formal reviews

Areas of Emphasis
- Communication skills (written and verbal)
- Formal writing
- Teamwork
- Time management (with deadlines)
- Organization
- Presentation
- Research skills
- Problem-solving skills
- Greater expectations in production quality
   and quantity
- Long and short term projects
- Greater depth in subject area
- More student guided and directed work

Alignment with High School AP History
- Successful completion of Honors Social Studies prepares the student for advanced high school course work