Social Studies

DEPARTMENT PHILOSOPHY

Through its course of study, the department provides a comprehensive view of a complex whole at each grade level. The program offers students a global perspective of a shared history as well as an interdependent future for all cultures. Learning concepts, skills, and values is cumulative. Topic and skill sets will be continually expanded, illuminated, and applied according to student development.

Students can expect, on average, approximately two hours of homework a week from the freshmen/sophomore foundational Social Studies courses (Cultures & Civilizations, U.S. History). Students can expect, on average, approximately three hours of homework a week from the additional Social Studies courses.

*Please note: For a student to be considered for Badger Girls State, she must have taken AP U.S. Government by the end of her junior year.

SOCIAL STUDIES DEPARTMENT COURSE OFFERINGS:

List of 6 items.

CULTURES & CIVILIZATIONS – 8001 and 8002

Cultures & Civilizations is an introductory survey course examining the geography, history, culture, religions, and the socio-economic and political systems of selected countries of North and South America, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Africa. This course is intended to help the student become aware of the increasing interdependence of the global community while discovering the relationship that past events have on the present. Activities include lecture, discussion, written assignments, and collaborative projects. A paper and/or project is assigned each semester.

Required course
Grade: 9
Semesters: 2
U.S. HISTORY – 8051 and 8052

This course provides an overview of the development of the United States initially introduced in Cultures & Civilizations. This year is spent in a more concentrated examination of the history, geography, culture, and the socioeconomic and political systems of our nation. These aspects of our nation's evolution are explored from the Constitutional Era to the present. Activities include lecture, small group activities, projects, discussion, geography, and written assignments. The written assignments, given at the discretion of the teacher, include four or more papers or projects during the course of the year, at least one per quarter.

Prerequisite: Cultures & Civilizations
Grades: 10 and 11
Semesters: 2
GENDER STUDIES – 8110

This course will focus on both historical and contemporary events and issues that affect women, men, and families. The primary goal of the class is to provide an educational foundation from which each student can examine and ultimately create her own opinion on women's roles and rights within our society. Moreover, students will examine the effect of that role within the context of gender stereotypes for both men and women. Thus, the course offers students the opportunity to examine the role that gender has on a personal, professional, psychological, and familial level. Exploration of major historical documents in the move toward women's social, political, and economic rights will be read and analyzed, as well as a broad study of contemporary examples of gender's impact socially, politically, and economically. Students will be expected to further develop research skills, tools, and resources, as well as to form a reflective attitude through discussing, writing, and reading in regard to issues facing and concerning gender.

Prerequisite: Cultures & Civilizations and U.S. History or AP U.S. History or AP U.S. Government and Politics
Grades: 11 and 12
Semesters: 1
AFRICAN STUDIES – 8210

This course provides a study of the African continent (Sub-Saharan) with a deeper concentration of issues covered in Cultures & Civilizations. Through research, interpretation, and dissemination of knowledge, the objective of this course is to increase the student’s awareness and understanding of the major challenges and achievements Sub-Saharan nations faced / face during colonization and after winning independence. African Studies will explore and analyze the following topics: colonization, contemporary history, political and economic issues, the African diaspora, culture, key figures, challenges and achievements and significant contributions. This course will develop the student’s critical thinking ability by emphasizing the necessity to understand developments on the continent in their proper human, historical, and international contexts. Case studies will include several African nations.

The student will “adopt-a-country” and research the country’s history and development as a nation, culminating with an analysis on the contributing role her country plays in the development of the African continent and the global community. This course will be offered alternating school years with Asian Studies.

Prerequisites: Cultures & Civilizations and U.S. History or AP U.S. History or AP U.S. Government
Grades: 11 and 12
Semesters: 1

This course will be offered 2023-2024 but will be not offered for the 2024-2025 school year.
ASIAN STUDIES – 8220

Asian Studies will focus on the major challenges and meaningfully integrate and thoughtfully analyze the events that played a role in the development of these two case-study countries: China and Japan. In order to understand the development of the case study countries and the area as a whole, Asian Studies will explore and analyze the following topics: history, political and economic issues, culture, key figures, challenges, achievements, and significant contributions. This approach will give students the tools to compare similarities and differences in the ways these countries developed and how this has affected both the region and the world. Whereas Cultures & Civilizations has a broad focus and covers many regions of the world, Asian Studies concentrates on several states in south and east Asia. It is especially important for students to understand the political and economic dynamics of China since it has recently become an important and challenging global power.

The student will “adopt-a-country” and research the country’s history and development as a nation, culminating with an analysis on the contributing role her country plays in the development of the Asian continent and the global community. This course will be offered alternating school years with African Studies.

Prerequisites: Cultures & Civilizations and U.S. History or AP U.S. History or AP U.S. Government
Grades: 11 and 12
Semesters: 1

This class will be not offered for 2023-2024 school year but will be offered for the 2024-2025 school year.
TOPICS IN PSYCHOLOGY – 8235

Topics in Psychology is designed as an exciting, engaging overview of the scientific study of human behavior. What makes us who we are? Course content will include topics in the areas of, though not limited to, historical perspectives and methodology; sensation and perception; cognition and learning; motivation and emotions; development across the life span; personality theory and disorders; psychological therapies; social psychology; and other relevant topics. The students are expected to participate in class discussions and problem-solving sessions. Activities include lectures, discussions, reflections, projects, and synthesis of skills and knowledge.

Prerequisites: Cultures & Civilizations and U.S. History or AP U.S. History or AP U.S. Government and Politics
Grades: 11 and 12
Semesters: 1

AP & DUAL CREDIT COURSE OFFERINGS

List of 7 items.

AP EUROPEAN HISTORY – 8401 and 8402

AP European History is a challenging college-level course that is structured around the investigation of five course themes and 19 key concepts in four different chronological periods from the Renaissance to the present. Besides covering the relevant historical facts from these eras and linking these facts to the analysis of the themes, the course requires you to master nine historical thinking skills. During the year, you will be provided with the opportunity to examine primary sources, such as documentary material, pictorial and graphic materials, maps, political cartoons, statistical tables, and works of art. In addition, you will be provided with exposure to both factual narrative and to the interpretations of European history from the perspectives of a variety of different writers and historians. Historiography is the history of history. You will be examining how people have thought about and written about historical events over the course of time. You will also be provided with the opportunity to develop your analytical and interpretive writing skills, practicing short answer questions as well as document-based and long essay question essays. This class is designed to meet AP standards and requirements (these can be found on the AP College Board website). The class will prepare students to take the AP European exam in the spring, and all students are encouraged to prepare for and to take the AP Exam.

Prerequisites: Cultures & Civilizations and U.S. History, AP U.S. History or AP U.S. Government and Politics
Grade: 12
Semesters: 2
Fee: Additional fee for AP exam

Learn more about AP & Dual-Credit offerings.
AP HUMAN GEOGRAPHY – 8421 and 8422
The curriculum for this course consists of topics drawn from seven interrelated units of study outlined in the AP Human Geography Course Description booklet published by the College Board. The purpose of the course is to utilize geographic processes to systematically study and understand the following concepts:
1. Geography: Its Nature and Perspectives
2. Population
3. Cultural Patterns and Processes
4. Political Organization of Space
5. Agriculture and Rural Land Use
6. Industrialization and Economic Development
7. Cities and Urban Land Use
The purpose of the AP Human Geography course is to introduce students to the systematic study of patterns and processes that have shaped human understanding, use, and alteration of Earth’s surface. Many of these concepts, ideas, and models were introduced in Cultures and Civilizations. Students learn to employ spatial concepts and landscape analysis to examine human socioeconomic organization and its environmental consequences. They also learn about the methods and tools geographers use in their research and applications. This class is designed to meet AP standards and requirements (these can be found on the AP College Board website). The class will prepare students to take the AP Human Geography test in the spring, and all students are encouraged to prepare for and to take the AP Exam.

Prerequisites: Cultures & Civilizations and U.S. History, AP U.S. History or AP U.S. Government and Politics
Grades: 11 and12
Semesters: 2
Fee: Additional fee for AP exam

Learn more about AP & Dual-Credit offerings.
AP U.S. GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS – 8301 and 8302

This college-level course is designed to give the student a critical perspective of government and politics in the U.S., so students must be able to work independently on college-level material. The course involves an in-depth study of the general concepts introduced in U.S. History. It also presents an analysis of the various institutions, groups, beliefs, and ideas that make up American political reality, as well as a number of foundational documents and Supreme Court cases required by the College Board. Students will need to devote a considerable amount of time to out of class reading, homework, and study. Assessments will mirror the AP Government and Politics Exam. The five major units (per the College Board) are:

1. Foundations of American Democracy
2. Interactions Among Branches of Government
3. Civil Liberties and Civil Rights
4. American Political Ideologies and Beliefs
5. Political Participation

Most colleges offer three credits for successful completion of the Advanced Placement Exam taken by students in May. It is expected that students will take the AP Exam.

Prerequisite: Cultures and Civilizations
Grades: 10, 11, and 12
Semesters: 2
Fee: Additional fee for AP exam

Learn more about AP & Dual-Credit offerings.
AP U.S. HISTORY – 8451 and 8452

Advanced Placement United States History is a challenging course that is designed to be the equivalent of a freshman level college course. Upon successful completion of the Advanced Placement United States History Examination students may earn college credits. AP US History is a two-semester survey of American history from pre-Columbian societies to the present. Students will need to devote a considerable amount of time to out of class reading, writing, homework, and study. Course emphasis is placed on critical thinking skills, essay writing, interpretation of primary documents, and historiography. Multiple assessments will be used to measure student comprehension that will mirror the AP US History Exam.

Students will be expected to spend a considerable amount of time preparing for class. A significant amount of reading will be required for each unit of study and for special projects and assignments. There will also be a large amount of time devoted to assignments, projects, and test preparation. For each unit students will complete a series of objective questions, and in most cases will also complete either a Free Response Question or a Document-Based Question. It is expected that at the end of the second semester, every student will take the Advanced Placement United States History Examination.

Prerequisite: Cultures & Civilizations
Grades: 11 and 12
Semesters: 2
Fee: Additional fee for AP exam

Learn more about AP & Dual-Credit offerings.
HS 263: INTERCULTURAL HISTORY: LATIN AMERICA – 8250**

A study of the histories and culture of Latin America, this course starts with the ancient roots of many of the early civilizations such as the Inca, Maya, and Aztecs, traces the impact of European conquest, the fights for independence and the growth of the new nations. Focusing on peacemaking, the course examines the opportunities lost and won as well as this continent’s attempt to come to terms with its turbulent past. This course provides a study of Latin America from a multidisciplinary perspective, with a deeper concentration of issues covered than in Cultures & Civilizations. IH Latin America focuses on the histories, peoples, cultures, and geographies that unify the region, as well as differences that distinguish countries in Latin America. This course will explore and analyze the following topics: indigenous cultures, key figures, European colonization and its effects, independence movements and nation-building, neocolonialism, revolutions, authoritarianism, the impact of the Cold War, recent challenges (including migration and globalization issues), achievements, issues of race, class and gender, and future outlook. In this semester long course, certain nations have been selected as case studies to exemplify broader regional trends in different time periods. One common theme in the later units will be the interest and involvement of the United States in the affairs of its geopolitical neighbors to the south. Students will be expected to further develop critical thinking and communication skills, as well as to form a reflective attitude through writing, research, analytical reading of primary sources, and discussing with regard to issues faced by the peoples of Latin America.

Prerequisites: Cultures & Civilizations and U.S. History or AP U.S. History or AP U.S. Government and Politics
Grades: 11 and 12
Semesters: 1

**Students will be eligible to receive 3 transferable college credits from Marquette University by enrolling in the Concurrent Enrollment dual-credit program.

Learn more about AP & Dual-Credit Offerings.
HS 4931: TOPICS IN HISTORY: POST WWII AMERICA - 8070**

This course was formerly called HS 268: THE TUMULTUOUS SIXTIES – 8070

This course focuses on the years 1946 to 1980, with emphasis on the 1960s decade. The class delves into the events and issues that led up to and dominated the 1960s, such as the Cold War and protest movements, as well as the ramifications of these and other events and issues. This class chronicles both America’s and the world’s roller-coaster journey through the decades since World War II, building on topics introduced in the U.S. History and Cultures & Civilizations survey courses. The Cold War, which kept the world on edge for over 50 years and remains an influence, will be highlighted. In addition, significant cultural and political themes that have colored our recent past and present will be explored, including issues of foreign policy, economic and social reform, race, class and gender. Students will be expected to further develop critical thinking and communication skills, as well as to form a reflective attitude through writing, research, analytical reading, and discussing in regard to issues of our postwar world.

Prerequisite: Cultures & Civilizations, U.S. History, AP U.S. History, or AP U.S. Government and Politics
Grades: 11 and 12
Semesters: 1

**Students will be eligible to receive 3 transferable college credits from Marquette University (for course HS 4931) by enrolling in the Concurrent Enrollment dual-credit program.

Learn more about AP & Dual-Credit offerings.
NEW COURSE TITLE: POSC 4701: UNITED STATES FOREIGN POLICY - 8216**

This course was formerly called HS: 341 United States Foreign Policy - 8216

Building on what students have learned in Cultures & Civilizations and U.S. History, U.S. Foreign Policy is a challenging college-level course that provides an overview and analytic framework that focuses on the process and politics by which U.S. foreign policy is made. In addition, this course will explore in detail the core principles, complexities, and possibilities in applying those principles concerning U.S. policies in the 21st Century. During the semester, you will be provided with the opportunity to examine primary and secondary sources which provide you with the opportunity to develop your analytical and interpretive writing skills, collaborative skills, and communication skills.
The semester of study includes, but is not limited to:
• U.S. foreign policy framework since 1945
• U.S.-North Korean relations
• Middle East issues such as possible Iranian nuclear power, Arab-Israeli peace, Syrian conflict and mitigation crisis, civil war, and other Southwest Asian conflicts
• U.S. relations with Western Europe, the EU, and Russia
• Terrorism, counterterrorism, and weapons of mass destruction
• Global health, border disputes, sustainable development, and environmental concerns
• Transregional issues: pandemics, human trafficking, and immigration
• Global environmental issues: sustainability and international collaboration concerning nuclear proliferation

Prerequisites: Cultures & Civilizations, U.S. History or AP U.S. History, or AP U.S. Government and Politics
Grades: 11 and 12
Semesters: 1

**Students will be eligible to receive 3 transferable college credits from Marquette University (for course POSC 4701) by enrolling in the Concurrent Enrollment dual-credit program.

Learn more about AP & Dual-Credit Offerings.

MEET THE SOCIAL STUDIES DEPARTMENT FACULTY:

Patrick Dawson | at DSHA since 1991 | teaching since 1991

Social Studies Department Chair
Social Studies Faculty
BA in Political Science, University of Wisconsin-Madison
MA in History and Secondary Education, University of Illinois
DawsonP@dsha.info

"I love girls not being overly concerned with what they wear to school, and I love their lasting friendships. We have loads of student leadership opportunities, held 100% by girls! There’s nothing better than hearing about our alums contributing to our community and the world, and I believe opportunities here give them a strong foundation. I am a believer in all-girls education!"
Christine Weiss, DS '70 | at DSHA since 1981 | teaching since 1975

Social Studies Faculty
BA in History, Political Science and Secondary Education, Mount Mary University
MA in History, Marquette University
WeissC@dsha.info

"I am able to foster independent thinking based on sound reasoning, gospel values, and Salvatorian charism to a dedicated and enthusiastic group of young women. I have an obligation every day to teach every student, no matter their background, socio-economic condition, or personal history. It is a serious responsibility to teach young women, provide opportunities to strengthen their voices, use reasoning skills, and grow in their faith! I find these goals the most rewarding part of my life's work."
Thomas Montgomery | at DSHA since 2009 | teaching since 2009

Social Studies Faculty
Specialized Studies Faculty
Head Varsity Softball Coach
Softball Program Coordinator
BA in History, Political Science, and Secondary Education, University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh
MontgomeryT@dsha.info

"As an educator at DSHA I have the opportunity to work with a diverse group of young women who are driven in their pursuit of knowledge, development of critical thinking skills, and dedication to their academic growth. The culture here is unparalleled. This institution and its unique characteristics allows me to be the most dynamic and motivated educator I can be. I am a better person, coach, and educator for working at DSHA, and on a daily basis I do my best to give back to the institution that has given me so much."
Chris Cotey | at DSHA since 2021 | teaching since 1991

Social Studies Faculty
BA in English and History, Creighton University
MA in History and Secondary Education, Marquette University
CoteyC@dsha.info

“DSHA is an amazing place to teach! The academics are challenging and encourage girls to develop their critical thinking and leadership skills. The energy and enthusiasm the girls bring to the classroom contributes to the positive environment and culture of the school. Connecting with my students and helping them become strong, independent women is one of the many joys of teaching at DSHA!”
Dan Demeter | at DSHA since 2021 | teaching since 2007

Social Studies Faculty
BA in Secondary Broadfield Social Studies Education, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
MA in Educational Leadership and Administration, Cardinal Stritch University
DemeterD@dsha.info

“Social studies class is a fantastic place for the girls to realize so many things about themselves and the world around them. Through the social studies content, we learn a global perspective that helps us discuss the past as well as the present. Through engaging classroom activities, we seek to learn more about each other and our experiences. The goal is that when students leave my classroom, they have a deeper appreciation of our content, but have also grown as people and disciples of Jesus Christ.”