Social Studies Department

Required Courses to be completed to obtain a high school diploma.

You need 8 credits in Social Studies to meet your graduation requirement.

The Social Studies department at Newtown High School encourages learning through exploration of sources and discussion of historical events. Teachers seek to improve student's critical thinking skills by hosting Socratic Seminars and teaching them how to craft strong arguments.

All Social Studies teachers encourage social-emotional learning by checking in with their students periodically to discuss progress or allow for communication outside of school hours.

Freshman Year: Global History and Geography I (2 credits)

How did our world become so connected? The story begins in Global History I. This course takes students on an expansive journey from 10,000 B.C.E. through the Age of Exploration. We will explore the rise and fall of powerful civilizations, trace the development of global trade, and analyze the impacts of cross-cultural encounters that forever shaped our world.

Sophomore Year: Global History & Geography II (2 credits)

Picking up in the 18th century, Global History II explores the dramatic events of the modern world. From the Age of Revolutions to the challenges of the 21st century, we will investigate how nations have gained and lost power in a world constantly shrinking due to technological advancements. This course will challenge students to analyze complex historical events and prepare them for success on the Global History & Geography Regents exam.

United States History (2 credits)

What does it mean to be American? This junior-year course explores that question by digging into the nation's history, from its colonial origins to the present day. Students will investigate the key political turning points, economic shifts, and social movements that have forged the United States, culminating in the U.S. History Regents exam.

Senior Year Requirement: Participation in Government (1 credit) & Economics (1 credit)

This year-long course is divided into two parts. The first semester, Participation in Government, traces the historical development of the American government. The second semester, Economics, introduces students to core market concepts, including scarcity, supply and demand, government regulation, and trade.

Seal of Civic Readiness- Social Studies Department is working towards students being afforded the opportunity to receive a New York State Seal of Civic Readiness. The New York State Seal of Civic Readiness (NYSSCR) is a formal recognition that a student has attained a high level of proficiency in their Social Studies coursework and demonstrated civic engagement. Having this special designation on a transcript and diploma signifies achievement in the domains of civic knowledge, skills and actions, mindsets, and experiences. The Seal of Civic Readiness provides students a distinction on their diploma as well as an additional pathway to graduation. Our goal as a department is to ensure that all students achieve civic readiness and to emphasize the importance of social studies and civics education. If you have any questions regarding the Seal of Civic Readiness, please contact AP Tsouristakis. Click on the button below to learn more!