Social Science

Social Science Department

Philosophy of the Social Studies Department

The philosophy of the Social Studies Department adheres to the main goals branching out from the philosophy of Salesian High School. In all courses within the department, members teach with reason, religion and kindness. The department offers courses which form part of the basic comprehensive program of Catholic Education

As the students face the complicated contemporary world, the department seeks to assist the students to have a sound working knowledge of the world around them. The Social Studies Department provides students with courses that survey national and international political, social, psychological, military, and religious issues pertinent to modern history and thought

The department recognizes its duty to educate students about their rights and responsibilities as world, national, California, and Los Angeles citizens. In particular, members hope to develop in students an appreciation for democracy and recognition of their own role in its maintenance. Last, the department celebrates the pluralistic and multicultural nature of the United States and encourages students to see their own roots and experiences as an intimate and essential part of the nation’s history

With these visions, the department seeks to develop the physical, social, intellectual, emotional, spiritual and cultural worth of each student. Members hope that students will come to understand history as a common memory of which they are an integral part.

The Goals of the Social Studies Department

First, the Social Studies Department aims to provide students with certain curricular attributes The development of historical knowledge and cultural understanding and an appreciation of democracy and internalization of civic values are important goals to this end

Second, we aim to teach a program of courses accessible to any student to assist them to gain historical, civic, and cultural literacy The department aims to diversify learning experiences by using different techniques for motivating, reinforcing, and extending the learning experience for students of varying abilities

Third, the department aims at teaching a sequential curriculum which will provide a balanced emphasis on college and career preparation Members strive to ensure that each student achieves his best and maintains high academic standards

Finally, we hope to develop in each student an attitude of open-mindedness and an ability to solve problems Members acknowledge the importance of critical thinking skills and the ability to apply classroom knowledge to real world situations.

Course Descriptions

The World History course provides the students with an overview of world history from Paleolithic times to our post-Cold War era through analysis of social, political, economic, and geographic forces that shape the Western and Non-Western cultures. Specific instruction is provided to assist students in developing a project of their choosing with a specific theme in mind.

United States Government is a course that provided the student with a basic understanding of the structure and operation of federal and state governments. It also call attention to the basic values on which political and legal systems are based, and the principles that give direction to the ways in which those systems work.

The Economics course provided students with an introduction to micro and macro economics through the examining fundamental institutions of the United States.

The Sociology course is designed to cover the aspects of human behavior and interaction by examining sociological perspectives, culture, social structures, social inequality, social institutions, and social change. In addition, the course will give the student basic knowledge of figures and terminology associated with Sociology. Students will have the opportunity to explore special aspects of Sociology through outside readings, and discussion of past and present sociological issues.

US History offers a chronological narrative treatment of American history. The course provided will highlight major events and developments of American history. It will also discuss those who have contributed to our nation's history. Students will understand how past events are related to our present, and will analyze historical issues to deepen their understanding of American history.

A.P. US History meets the eleventh grade requirement of United States history. It offers a chronological, in-depth narrative treatment of American history. It prepares students for the nation wide Advanced Placement Examination in US history given by the College Board. A grade of 3 or better may award the students

The Psychology course provided students with an introduction to psychology. It explores the history and development of the science, and its important principles and methods. Instructional methods include film, analysis, case studies, and formal lecture.

The Geography course is designed to help students learn to appreciate the multicultural of the world's people. Students will receive a balanced broad view of interaction of people with their physical and cultural environments, both historically and present day, in today's global village. Students will develop a new vocabulary pertaining to world geography as a discipline. Students will be able to explore special issues about the world geography.