Social Studies Philosophy
History prepares students to be active and aware American citizens; to better understand the people and the world around them; to show respect for all; and most importantly, to gain a better understanding of how Jesus Christ works in the lives of people. History students at ACS will be taught to examine carefully the important social, economic, political, and religious issues of yesterday and today. All of this will be done from a fundamental Christian perspective.
Course Offerings
World History
This course will cover a wide range of topics and events in world history. We will discover how God has been present and influential from the very beginning. Students will gain a basic understanding of ancient civilizations, including the Fertile Crescent, Egypt, Greece, Rome, and China. They will also learn about the development of Christianity, the Middle Ages, the Renaissance and Reformation periods, and conclude the year with the World Wars. It is our desire that each student will come away from this class with a basic understanding of the outline of world history and, more importantly, a greater appreciation for how God has worked in our world from the beginning of time. Open to grades 9 and 10.
AP World History
We will be taking both a chronological and thematic approach to studying historical events and their impact. We will also be focusing on continuity and change throughout World History, focusing primarily on AD 1200 to the present day. We will break our study of world history into nine units with an interjection of themes at relevant times in order to grasp a richer understanding of historical events while developing important historical thinking skills to prepare for the AP Exam in May. Prerequisites: Semester grade of 90% or better in both semesters of 9th grade English (sophomores), 10th grade English (juniors), or US History (seniors).
U.S. History
This course stresses the importance of God's hand moving through American history. US History is required for all students in the junior year, unless prior arrangements have been made with the administration and the history department. Emphasis will be on units such as the Civil War, Industrialization, the Great Depression, the U.S. in World War I and II, the Cold War, Vietnam and current issues. This course will stress the importance of many political, economic, social, and religious developments that have shaped our nation. Critical thinking, worksheets, group work, map work, video, and many other aids will be used to motivate the student to pursue excellence in the classroom, in life after high school, and in the race that God has set before us. Open to grade 11.
U.S. Government
This semester course required for seniors deals with: the American exceptionalism, its Christian foundation, and understanding how a democracy works; Parliamentary Procedure; Forms of Government; the Constitution of the United States; the Constitution of the State of Illinois; and the semester culminates with student participation in a “Mock Congress” project/event. Students will portray a representative, research a bill, write a bill and use parliamentary procedure to put their bill on the floor of the House of Representatives, debate and try to pass their bill. We attempt to develop Christian thinkers in accordance with Biblical principles. The state required constitution tests will be administered in this course. Grade 12.
Economics
The Bible tells us that we are to be good stewards of all that God has blessed us with. That is why it is important for us to learn about economics and how it relates to us. This class involves learning the basics about our economy here in the U.S. and the world, supply/demand, and an emphasis on personal finance. After this course, students should have a better understanding and appreciation for how God works in all aspects of life, especially our money and resources. Several topics covered in the area of personal finance include savings, investing, debt, career/college planning, and budgeting. Open to grade 12.
Electives
Business Economics
Through a Christian worldview, this course will compare and contrast economic systems and the impact they have on local and global economies. Students will explore concepts and processes associated with business planning, management and marketing, and evaluate leadership qualities and skills necessary for leading a team. Students will manage and market the Daily Grind as part of this course.
World Geography
World Geography is a semester course designed to provide students with a basic understanding of the interrelationship between physical and human geography. The study of World Geography focuses on the relationships among people, places, and environments that result in geographic patterns on the earth. Students will develop certain basic geography skills, including map reading and place name identification along with the interpretation of charts and diagrams, all with an emphasis on God’s creation of the physical world and humanity created in His image. Grade 12.
Intro to Psychology
This semester-long course will be taught from a Christian perspective, giving the student a historical overview of notable psychologists and their theories. It will also introduce the student to the basic pathology of psychological theories. We will examine such areas as cognitive , social and psychological development. Students will express themselves with weekly journal entries and current events in the world of psychology. Open to grades 12.
U.S. Government - Part 2
This semester course takes a deeper dive into the government systems of America and the Christian foundation of each one. The intricacies of how our democratic system operates will be studied in depth. This course allows us to concentrate on recognizing the ways that our branches of government operate together to support and uphold our Constitution. Through this course students will have a better understanding of how tightly Biblical principles were embedded into our government from its inception. Grade 12.
History in Motion
History in Motion takes a close look at selected historical figures portrayed in films. Film Analysis will focus on the depictions of the historical figures, the use (or lack of) primary sources, how they have influenced the popular understanding of that figure and its corresponding era, and how that depiction has influenced historical records. This class will also evaluate the influence the historical figure had on historical events and how those events have shaped society and/or culture today. open to grades 10 - 12