History & Social Sciences Department
In the classroom, Wardlaw+Hartridge students develop the tools to become historians and social scientists. Guided by teachers, students develop their voices in the dynamic conversation about the people, places, events, patterns and themes of human civilization.
At W+H, we treat history not merely as a body of facts to be learned, but as an ongoing narrative. Grounded in the reality of past events, we can work to make sense of current events. Students learn the skills of synthesis, research, and the analysis of primary source documents as they explore civilizations from the ancient world to contemporary times. They question, debate, write, and make oral presentations of their learning. Through understanding our collective past, they come to understand their world and empower themselves to contribute to it in important ways.
Seminar-style learning begins from moment one in the Upper School in Global Humanities. Instruction introduces students to sophisticated lectures and higher-order note-taking skills, all in preparation for diverse assessments. Tenth grade Modern World History picks up where the ninth grade concludes; studying the late Middle Ages/Post-Classical Era through modern global affairs, recognizing the ever-increasing connections between once distinct regions. In eleventh grade, students enroll in either United States History or AP United States History. These survey style courses blend a traditional sequential approach to US History with a thematic approach that focuses on connecting issues of the past with issues and themes in our current society. Senior year, students may choose to continue their history studies through a variety of AP and non-AP electives.
The History Department strives to cultivate learners who think deeply about historical events, create connections between past and present, and see themselves as agents of change for the next generation. Discourse and discussion are a widely used practice during daily class sessions. Well developed and supported research and writing are a common thread throughout all levels and courses. Our goal is to have students leave WH with the thinking, writing and research skills to be successful in college.
The History Department strives to cultivate learners who think deeply about historical events, create connections between past and present, and see themselves as agents of change for the next generation.
