Writing skills and awareness of current events will be stressed. This course is open to juniors and seniors who would like to gain a better understanding of society and how man functions in the society. Special emphasis will be placed on social problems such as crime, poverty, discrimination and prejudice. Many hands-on experiences are provided such as field trips to the local jail, preschool, homeless shelter, and Missouri State Prison. This is a honors course for senoirs emphasizing college-preparatory skills.
Considerable time is given to critical analysis and writing, using primary sources.
The student is required to examine the broad range of interests that underlie the American political process, how the political process operates, and the consequences of policy decisions. The course is designed to prepare the student for the optional Advance Placement Exam, by which the student can earn college credit. A special event of the class is a trip to Washington D.C., Phiadelphia, and New York. Teacher approval is required and there is limited enrollment.