The NISD High School Social Studies Department is committed to helping students become creative, critical thinkers by guiding them in the understanding and analysis of important political, geographic, economic, legal, and social issues of our contemporary and historical world. This mission is accomplished through a rigorous curriculum that emphasizes real-life analytical thinking, instructional lessons that are engaging and encourage student collaboration, and ongoing professional development that encourages innovative thinking in both educators and students.
9th World Geography - This is the on level course for most freshman, it typically precedes World History
9th Human Geography AP - This is an AP class meaning that students will have an opportunity to earn 3 hours of college credit if they earn a qualifying score on the AP exam in the spring. For more information the AP exam from College Board, click here - This class commonly leads to World History AP/DC
10th World History - This is the on level course for most sophomore students, it typically precedes US History. This class commonly leads to US History. Students who are wish to challenge themselves with the chance to earn college credit can also consider AP US History/Dual Credit or US History On-Ramps
10th World History AP/Dual Credit - This is an AP class meaning that students will have an opportunity to earn 3 hours of college credit if they earn a qualifying score on the AP exam in the spring OR pass the course with a 70 or higher in Dual Credit. For more information on the College Board AP exam and the course, click here. This class commonly leads to AP US history/Dual Credit or US History On-Ramps
11th US History - This is the on level course for Juniors, and prepares students for the US EOC STAAR. It most commonly precedes BOTH US Government and Economics (semester courses)
11th US History AP/Dual Credit - This is an AP class meaning that students will have an opportunity to earn 6 hours of college credit if they earn a qualifying score on the AP exam in the spring. For more information on the AP College Board Exam, click here APUSH requires outside reading so that in class time can focus on analysis and synthesis of information and practice writing at a high level
11th US History On Ramps - Students receive two grades:NISD grade (from Brandeis teacher) and UT transcript grade (from UT professor)
- UT Grade (and credit) can be declined if student does not want grade on college transcript
- Many assignments done in teams, no traditional textbook (online readings) Students do not take AP test
- Assignments include outside reading, online quizzes, journals, two essays
Government/Economics - Government and Economics are one semester classes and on level for 12th grade students. Both are required for graduation
AP Government - The AP Government class is a one semester class that fulfills a student’s government requirement for graduation. College-level course which requires outside reading and diligent note-taking and the opportunity to earn 3 hous of college credit if they earn a qualifying score
AP Macroeconomics -This is an AP Course meaning students have the opportunity to earn 3 hours of college credit if they earn a qualifying score on the AP test. Macroeconomics focuses on the economy at the national level. Students will learn things that will help them in their adult life regardless of college major.
ELECTIVES
Special Topics US History through Film/WWII-This course examines the history of the United States by analyzing films made regarding historical time periods. Students will conduct historical research to analyze cultural, political, and social issues that influenced the films presented/This course will analyze the political and economic causes of the Second World War from a global perspective. Students will explore military campaigns, leaders, and the domestic impacts at home.
AP European History - Full year 1 credit AP class for Juniors and Seniors. 8 points added to your GPA! Chance to Earn College Credit! Prior AP history classes are encouraged but not required earn about European History from the Renaissance to Today
AP Psychology - is the study of mind and behavior. It encompasses the biological influences, social pressures, and environmental factors that affect how people think, act, and feel. 8 points added to your GPA and earns college credit with a passing score of 3 or higher.
Psychology/Sociology - This course is designed for students who desire a better understanding of themselves through a study of society. Students examine topics such as the history and systems of sociology, cultural and social norms, social institutions, and mass communication through the study of dynamics and models of individual and group relationships.
