World Geography class is an examination of the world’s geography. Students will be introduced to the following concepts through a variety of information sources: Geography studies the relationship between people, places, and environments by mapping information about them into special context. The identities and lives of individuals and peoples are rooted in particular places and in those human constructs called regions. Physical processes shape Earth’s surface and interact with plant and animal life to create, sustain, and modify ecosystems. People are central to geography in that human activities help shape the Earth’s surface, human settlements and structures are part of Earth’s surface, and humans compete for control of Earth’s surface. The physical environment is modified by human activities, largely as a consequence of the ways in which human societies value and use Earth’s natural resources, and human activities are also influenced by Earth’s physical features and processes. Knowledge of geography enables people to develop an understanding of the relationships between people, places, and environments over time—that is, of Earth as it was, is, and might be.

American History is a chronological examination of America’s history in which students will be introduced to the following themes through a variety of information sources: Being aware of cultural differences helps us understand ourselves and others. Recognizing our historic roots helps us understand why things are the way they are today. Understanding geography helps us understand how humans interact with their environment. Recognizing the contributions of men and women in history helps us see patterns of power, influence, and progress. Identifying how political and social groups and institutions work helps us work together. Understanding the workings of government helps us become good citizens. Understanding production, distribution, and consumption helps us see how economic factors influence our lives. Understanding the roles of science and technology helps us see their impact on our society today and the roles they will play in the future. Being aware of global interdependence helps us make decisions and deal with the difficult issues we will encounter. Recognizing America’s democratic principles will help us claim and fulfill our own civic duties.

Alaska History class provides students access to a rich source of facts and viewpoints about Alaska and its history. There are six units, each encompassing an important theme or historical period. (Geography, Alaska’s Cultures, Russia’s Colony, America’s Territory, Governing Alaska, and Modern Alaska) With each unit students will discover extensive information that includes an historical account of that era, stories of the people who lived then, photographs, maps, oral history, letters, and other primary resources.

World History is a chronological examination of the world’s history in which students will be introduced to the following concepts through a variety of information sources: Throughout history, people and governments have tried to resolve conflicts and establish order and security. Ideas beliefs, and values have resulted in distinct societies and political systems. Physical geography influences the development of culture and trade. The quest for universal self-determination is universal. Throughout history, people have struggled for rights. New technologies bring changes that can be both positive and negative for societies. War causes immeasurable devastation. Countries compete for natural resources and strategic advantages over other countries, and a totalitarian system violates human rights in pursuit of power.

This course will look at American History beginning with the arrival of the first Europeans to America and continue to the present. We will examine history through political, social, and economic events and develop an understanding of how these events influence us today. Throughout this course we will question what it is to be American. We will look at the “American Dream” and compare that to the realities of American political and social life. Finally, we will closely examine the turning points in United States history and develop an understanding of them.

Students will focus on the various roles and responsibilities of the United States Government. We will also closely examine current events, citizenship, and local/state/national politics. In connection with these elements we will look at economics to explain patterns of behavior both at the individual and national levels.