GEHRHSD Curriculum Guide 2026-27

Social Studies

UNITED STATES HISTORY II Grade 11, 5 Credits

United States History II is a college preparatory academic course designed for students performing at or above grade level. U.S. History II, a required course, is designed to address and achieve the goals set forth in the New Jersey Core Curriculum Content Standards for Social Studies. Three areas of humanities are emphasized: history, citizenship and geography. Embedded in these content areas are economic, cultural, anthropological, sociological and global perspectives. In terms of scope and sequence, this course will continue from the end of the U.S. History I course. By the end of the course, students will have studied the following major periods in history as delineated in the Standards for Social Studies: The Great Depression, New Deal and World War II (1929-1945) Postwar United States: Cold War, Civil Rights, Social Change (1945-1970s) Contemporary United States: Domestic/International Policies and Interconnected Global Society (1970-Present) Throughout the course, the organization and operation of the various levels of government as well as the rights for individuals will be emphasized as events are studied. A special unit on the Holocaust and Prejudice Reduction will engage students in projects and assembly presentations. This Honors United States History II curriculum will place special emphasis on the utilization of advanced research and writing skills along with in-depth analysis of three major periods in history. While the customary areas of history and geography are examined, the concentration will be politics (national and international), law, and citizenship. U.S. History II, a required course, is designed to address and achieve the goals set forth in the NJCCCS for Social Studies. Students are required to perform research independently, analyze a variety of documents such as primary sources, charts, graphs, political cartoons and novels, and ultimately demonstrate higher level critical thinking skills. Students will also be expected to be active participants in their learning. Students will be better prepared for Advanced Placement testing by mastering these critical thinking skills. Prerequisites: Teacher recommendation and/or a 90 or above in College Prep United States History I. HONORS UNITED STATES HISTORY II Grade 11, 5 Credits