Social Studies
Washington State History and Government
Credit: Social Studies
Prerequisite: None
Length: 1 semester
Grade level: 9, 10, 11, 12 (may be taken in middle school)
In this course students will learn the history and current status of Washington's political, economic, social, and geographic influences. A state history course must be completed for graduation.
9th Grade Social Studies A, B
Credit: Elective
Prerequisite: None
Length: 1 year
Grade level: 9
This elective course is a skill building course designed to prepare students to be successful in high school courses, including the honors and IB courses. Reading, writing, critical thinking, research and culminating project skills will be emphasized throughout the course. Students will receive an overview of the seven disciplines making up the social studies: Political Science, History, Economics, Anthropology, Sociology, Psychology, and Geography. Specific skills needed for the 10th grade reading and writing WASL will also be covered.
Honors World History A, B - Asian, Third World, Western Civilization
Credit: Social Studies
Prerequisite: Completion and acceptance of the honors application and recommendation from 9th grade English or 9th grade social studies teacher.
Length: 1 year
Grade level: 10
This course is designed to prepare students for participation in the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program. The content of the course is the same as World History. Students in Honors World History will experience a more rigorous program refining the skills necessary for success in college and IB courses at Capital High School.
World History A, B – Asian, Third World, Western Civilization
Credit: Social Studies
Prerequisite: None
Length: 1 year
Grade level: 10
This course is designed to give students a well-rounded investigation into the history, geography, and culture of various areas in the world. During one semester students will study Asian and Middle East societies and history. The other semester is devoted to the study of Western Europe and the history and societies of Africa and Latin America. Each student must study all areas by the end of the year. Students who excel may also participate in the IB social studies courses in 11th and 12th grades.
United States History A, B
Credit: Social Studies
Prerequisite: None
Length: 1 year
Grade: 11
This course reviews U.S. history from colonial times to the present. The first semester moves from colonial times through World War I. The second semester goes from WWI to the present. Emphasis throughout is on how present situations, policies, and conditions have been shaped by past events and contributions from diverse racial, social, cultural, and economic groups.
IB History of the Americas A, B
Credit: Social Studies
Prerequisite: Approved IB program application
Length: 1 year
Grade level: 11, 12
This course deals with the history of the western hemisphere beginning with the development of indigenous cultures and extending to the mid-twentieth century. Students will be challenged to assess historical materials, weigh evidence and interpret historical information. History of the Americas is the first of two history courses necessary for students interested in an International Baccalaureate Diploma or Certificate. All students enrolled will complete a 2000-word essay emphasizing skills and an important historical topic of interest.
IB Psychology A, B
Credit: IB Elective
Prerequisite: Approved IB Program application
Length: 1 year
Grade level: 11, 12
IB Psychology is an in depth examination of the psychological theories of behavior and their applications. This course is one of the elective subjects students may select to study in pursuit of an IB Diploma or Certificate. The course is also open to motivated students interested in a more in depth study of psychology.
IB Twentieth Century World History A, B
Credit: Social Studies
Prerequisite: Approved IB program application
Length: 1 year
Grade level: 12
This is the second year of the IB course offering in history. This course is designed for motivated students interested in rigorous and in depth study of the world in the twentieth century. In addition to normal course work, emphasis is placed on the analysis of primary sources and the successful completion of the IB exam in history in May of the senior year. University credit may be granted for successfully completing the IB program.
IB Theory of Knowledge A, B
Credit: Elective
Prerequisite: Approved IB program application
Length: 2 semesters
Grade level: 11, 12
This course is intended to stimulate critical reflection upon the knowledge and experience gained inside and outside the classroom. TOK challenges students to question the bases of knowledge, to be aware of subjective and ideological biases, and to develop a personal mode of thought based on analysis of evidence expressed in rational argument. This course is a required interdisciplinary course for IB diploma candidates.
Psychology/Sociology
Credit: Social Studies
Prerequisite: None
Length: 1 semester
Grade level: 12
Students will participate in an introduction to the fields of psychology and sociology; their histories, perspectives and current status. Both psychology and sociology address complex issues so that students can develop a greater understanding of individuals and societies.
Contemporary World Problems and Macro Economics
Credit: Social Studies
Prerequisite: None
Length: 1 semester
Grade level: 12
In this twelfth grade course, students will study national and international issues through use of the news media and research. Students will analyze the media and issues through observation and research. The class also involves the study of macro economic concepts, including globalization and international trade as they apply to the U. S. and the world. This course is required for graduation by the state.