The social studies program at Duchesne provides a basic knowledge of American and world history while developing reading, writing and research abilities.  Students acquire skills of analysis and critical thinking leading to success in future studies and to responsible, active citizenship.  The interaction between geography and history is emphasized throughout the curriculum.

211 - Ancient, Classical  and Early Modern Civilizations	1 year
Grade 9	1 credit

This freshman survey course  focuses on significant events and movements in world history.  The early Egyptian, Greek, Roman, and Eastern cultures are  studied,  followed by an examination of the Middle Ages, the Renaissance and the development of national governments.   This course provides the historical context for the classical works read in freshman English and lays the foundation for the study of modern world history sophomore year.

221 - Modern World History	1 year
Grade 10	1 credit

This required course emphasizes global economic, social and political movements in modern history.  Periods and concepts stressed are transition from Middle to Modern Age, Early Modern Asia, early exploration,  Enlightenment,  Revolutions, Age of Napoleon, the Industrial Revolution, Nationalism and Imperialism, political ideologies, and twentieth-century issues.  Opportunities to build analytical research and documentation skills are provided.

222 - AP European History                                                                             1 year

AP European History covers the period beginning with the later Middle Ages and continuing through the Cold War and into the contemporary world.  The class focuses on the significant people and events that have shaped the course of Europe and helped to define the new world order.  In doing so, the class analyzes key historical themes, concepts, and patterns in an effort to understand the history of Europe and recognize the significance of the daily application of this knowledge.  A complex understanding of the material covered in this course serves as a building block for understanding current and future international affairs, and will help the student to define her role in those affairs.  All students enrolled in the course will sit for the Advanced Placement Examination in May.  This course has been audited and approved by the College Board.                                                                                                                                                                                                

223 - Modern Political Cultures	1 year
Grades 11 - 12	.5 credit

The course analyzes selected social, economic, and political trends of the twentieth century in Latin America, Asia, and Africa.  Students participating in this independent study course use a variety of current and historical sources to pursue individual interests. Emphasis is on global awareness with current events integral to the course.

231 - United States History	1 year
Grade 11	1 credit

This course provides a college-preparatory survey of the history of the United States from colonial times to the present.  U.S. History is designed to provide students with the knowledge and analytical skills necessary to deal critically with issues and materials in American history.  A broader and equally important goal is to develop thoughtful, informed individuals who will participate responsibly in the public forum. A major research paper is required.

232 - AP United States History	1 year
Grade 11 (Prerequisite:  teacher recommendation)	1 credit

Advanced Placement History is a challenging course for the motivated student who wishes to complete a college-level introduction to the subject and to prepare for the AP qualifying exam in May.  The course is designed to provide students with the knowledge and analytical skills necessary to deal critically with issues and materials in American history.  A broader and equally important goal is to develop informed, perceptive individuals who will participate responsibly in the adult world.  A major research paper is required.  All students sit for the AP exam in May.  This course has been audited and approved by the College Board.

251 - Economics	1 semester
Grade 12	.5 credit

Economics is a survey course that introduces students to basic economic and investing concepts.  Students study micro and macro theory including consumer and business behavior, economic models, national income accounting, banking, fiscal policy, monetary policy, leading economic indicators, and the federal budget.  Students learn about investing and finance by participation in the Houston Chronicle Stock Market Game.  Business consultants from Junior Achievement assist the class in career education and job preparation.

252 - American Government	1 semester
Grade 12	.5 credit

American Government is a college-preparatory survey course in American politics that introduces students to the major actors and institutions in our society.  Students study the creation and implementation of domestic and foreign policy and explore the meaning of citizenship.  Emphasis is placed on recent scholarly research, critical thinking, writing skills, data interpretation, and current case studies that clarify political behavior and civil liberties and civil rights in a democracy.

253 -AP US Government and Politics	1 semester
Grade 12 (Prerequisite: teacher recommendation)	.5 credit

AP American Government is an introductory college-level course that concentrates on the constitutional foundations of our government, political beliefs and behaviors, political parties, interest groups, and the mass media, the major institutions of national government, civil liberties and civil rights, and public policy formation.  Students are expected to take the Advanced Placement examination in May.  This course has been audited and approved by the College Board.

257 - Psychology	1 year
Grades 11 - 12	1 credit

This course provides an introduction to the scientific study of human and animal behavior.  Topics treated include: scientific methodology, learning and development theory, intelligence testing, emotion and motivation, major personality theories, psychopathology and social psychology.  This course includes hands-on projects.

258 - History of Film	1 year
Grades 11 - 12	.5 credit

History of film will present the historical and aesthetic development of the cinema.  Although the major emphasis will be on mainstream American films, the course will also sample the best of world cinema.  After watching film classics (both at home and at school) and reading film criticism, students will be able to use critical thinking and literary analyses to review films.  Among the films studied are Citizen Kane, The Bicycle Thief, and the works of Capra, Hitchcock, Kurosawa, Bergman and others.