Category: History and Social Science /
Length: Full Year /
Description: Our goal is to help students develop the ability to make informed and reasoned decisions as citizens of a culturally diverse, democratic society and an interdependent world. Cicero, a famous Roman statesman, wrote, ‘to be ignorant of what occurred before you were born is to remain always a child.’ In today’s world of complex economic and socio-political problems and rapid change, the need for well-informed citizens has never been greater.
A well-rounded social science education helps students understand the complexity of the modern world by providing a conceptual framework through which to understand their personal, social, and historical circumstances. Students come to realize that the past has created the present, and that historical processes have shaped ‘ and continue to shape ‘ the world. This understanding helps them plan their futures and affect positive change for themselves, their families, and their communities.
Our focus is on integrating the study of history with geography, civics, economics, law, government, religion, and other cultural studies. Courses are designed to help students practice historical analysis by applying advanced critical-thinking, reading, and writing skills. Students are also given the chance to experience the political process first-hand through participation in extracurricular programs like the Harvard Model Congress, Mock Trial, and the Chelsea High School Senate.The History and Social Science Department curriculum is aligned with the current Massachusetts State Curriculum Frameworks.