History

Learning to engage in the process of historical thinking is the real work of social studies and history. Engagement entails revealing the "story" through its details, investigating various theories and points of view, crafting hypothetical explanations for competing theories, verifying the data that support those hypotheses, and communicating clearly both orally and in writing.

Through the Social Studies/History program, students will learn to appreciate and understand history to develop both a sequential and relational understanding of national and world events and to recognize the ethical and moral complexities inherent in history. They will also develop an intellectual curiosity that stimulates life-long learning in history and current events as well as the skills to find and evaluate sources, distinguish among vast amounts of information, analyze texts critically, and value the richness of diverse perspectives in the interpretation of historical events.

Learning to frame good questions about the relationships inherent among historical events is among the most important skills that students develop through engaging with history. A variety of instructional and learning strategies are utilized to accommodate students' individual learning styles and interests. Students are expected to speak and write clearly, take intellectual risks, and provide well-reasoned arguments that substantiate their points of view.

Lower School

Early Childhood and Lower Elementary (PK-Grade 3): The Lower School Social Studies program focuses on the interrelationships of geography, history, civics and economics, and cultural awareness. The approach is interdisciplinary and experiential, designed to provide young children with developmentally appropriate ways to understand themselves in relation to the world that they come to experience as they mature. Essential questions evolve from a focus on environmental awareness, media literacy, good citizenship, character, exposure to different governmental models, and geographic literacy. Good study skills and habits are introduced, modeled, and expected at every grade level. Instructional strategies include teacher and student-centered learning.

Upper Elementary (Grades 4-5): By the time students leave the Upper Elementary Social Studies program, they will understand the impact of geography on cultures and continents and the concepts of trade, natural resources, and the characteristics of different types of governments. They will also have a strong foundation in map reading.

Middle School

The Middle School History program facilitates students' appreciation of history while developing their skills to find, analyze, and manage information. A primary goal of the program is for students to develop a strong sense of civic responsibility and awareness of others and to demonstrate empathy for people in their local, national, and global communities. Respect and appreciation for the diversity of human cultures and personal experience are emphasized.

Senior School

The Senior School History program helps students develop a global perspective through a sequence of offerings designed to foster an in-depth understanding of both United States and World History. Over the course of their study of history, students are expected to become increasingly sophisticated critical thinkers and writers and to develop a historical perspective and appreciation for their personal connection to the past. Students write essays on a frequent basis and enhance their listening, discussion and speaking skills. Geography is an important component of every history course offered in the Senior School.