BHS Social Science Curriculum

Hillel Academy’s range of social science courses guides students in developing an understanding of the history of civilization and the great ideas in economics, politics and culture from early to modern times. Students will understand and appreciate how history impacts on the world we live in today. Analyzing primary sources enhances student ability to understand how societies change. Students will also gain an appreciation of good citizenship as an expression of the value and importance of informed opinion.

World History II

This course focuses on Western history from the Renaissance (early 1400's) to World War II. Topics of study include Christopher Columbus, Martin Luther’s reforms, the Scientific Revolution, England and France, the Founding Fathers, the French Revolution, the Industrial Revolution and industrialization, nationalism, British Imperialism, German foreign policy and World War I, the Russian Revolution and the Treaty of Versailles. Students will focus on their reading, writing, and speaking skills through close reading of primary sources, substantive essays, and regular debates.

American History 1

American History 1 covers the history of the United States from its political and cultural origins in 17th century England to the beginning of the Progressive Era in the late 19th century.  The  course emphasizes improvement in reading, note-taking, writing, and speaking skills.

American History II

Students explore the history of the United States from 1900-present. Topics of study include American Expansionism, the Spanish-American War, World War I, the Roaring 20s, the Great Depression, World War II with special emphasis on the tragedy of the Holocaust, the Cold War, the Korean Conflict, the Space Age, the Great Society, Vietnam, Watergate and the Energy Crisis, Reagan Era Reforms, the arms race and the end of the Cold War, the economic boom and Gulf War, and the dawn of the 21st Century including 9/11, the war on terror, and the collapse of the financial markets.

Advanced Placement US History (11-12th Grade)

This course is a rigid, accelerated college-level course which gives students the opportunity to earn college credit upon passing the AP exam. Students are challenged to think, read, write and analyze as they explore the major events and themes in American history from the colonial era through the end of the 20th century.