Upcoming Activities: A Mock Election in preparation of the November Presidential Race A video conference with the author Sudhir Venkatesh, Professor of Sociology at Columbia University and author of Gang Leader for a Day. The Urban Studies classes take a field trip to Chicago to familiarize themselves with the public transportation system and historical locations.

Fostering students' understanding of the past to equip them for the world of tomorrow

• The Social Studies Department prepares students to participate in an increasingly global society, one which embraces diverse cultures.

Classrooms utilize the latest technology

• Message boards: to enhance discussion of course material and encourage independent learning
• Class websites: to supply up-to-date class information, resources, and assignments
• Tweets: to supply up-to-date class information
• Interactive maps: to enhance student understanding and illustrate connections between the past and present
• SMARTboards and SMART Response controllers: interactive response system that instantly tracks lesson comprehension

Curriculum

• World History and U.S. History are the only required courses, but electives include: Geography, World History Honors and AP U.S. History, as well as Global Economics, Psychology, Sociology,  Urban Studies, and Contemporary World Issues
• AP courses are offered in U.S. History and European History as well as in Comparative Government
• Students must pass the U.S. Constitution and Illinois Constitution tests, but this may be done through independent study or in the summer
• Field trips further reinforce classroom lectures and discussion

Independent Learning

• Upperclassmen are encouraged to explore topics in depth, developing their critical thinking skills
• Students have written two books based on interviews with surviving veterans: a World War II book completed by students in 2008-2009, and a  Korean War book completed by students in 2010-2011. This school year students will be working on a book based on interviews with surviving veterans of Vietnam.