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Social Studies

  • Social Studies
    The Social Studies discipline involves the study of history, geography, economics, government, and civics. Instruction draws on many fields such as anthropology, sociology, political science, psychology, religion, law, archaeology, philosophy, art, literature, physical science and the humanities. Social Studies is intended to help students develop the ability to make informed and reasoned decisions in their daily lives and for the public good . In addition, courses of studies help  prepare students to become active citizens in a culturally diverse, democratic society and an increasingly interdependent world. Social Studies courses at Ballston Spa emphasize active engagement, collaboration, interpretation, problem-solving, analysis and evaluation.  

    All students must earn four credits in Social Studies:

      • 9th grade: Global History 9
      • 10th grade: Global History 10
      • 11th grade: United States History and Government
      • 12th grade: Economics (1/2 year) and Participation in Government (1/2 year)

    All students must take a New York State Regents exam in Global History and Geography at the end of 10th grade and a New York State Regents exam in United States History at the end of 11th grade. 

    Students are also able to choose from a diverse selection of electives in their junior and senior year. These include:

    • Sociology
    • CHS Psychology
    • IB Psychology
    • Turning Points in US History
    • Social Change: Race and Gender

    The Social Studies Department also provides students with the opportunity to take Advanced Placement courses in the following areas:

    • AP Human Geography (9th grade year)
    • AP World History I (9th grade year)
    • AP World History II (10th grade year)
    • AP United States History and Government (11th grade year)
    • AP US Government and Economics (12th grade year)
    • AP Macroeconomics (12th grade year) 

    The Social Studies Department now offers students the opportunity  to take College in the High School Classes through Community Colleges in the following areas:

    • Interpretation of American History I & II
    • Government and Politics
    • Introduction to Psychology 

    The Social Studies Department provides students with the opportunity to take courses for the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme in the following areas:

    • History of the Americas Year 1
    • History of the Americas Year 2
    • Psychology
    • Theory of Knowledge