Social Studies

Social Studies at Cobble Hill

The Cobble Hill School utilizes the NYCPS Passport to Social Studies curriculum which  is a comprehensive K-12 resource designed to support social studies instruction in New York City public schools. Integrating the NYSED Social Studies Framework, Understanding by Design, and the Next Generation Learning Standards, this curriculum emphasizes inquiry-based learning, diverse perspectives, and critical thinking skills to prepare students for an interconnected global community.

Key features include a focus on inquiry-based learning, where students ask questions and engage in research and analysis. It also integrates history, geography, economics, civics, and government to provide a well-rounded understanding of social studies. The curriculum incorporates multiple perspectives, reflecting the rich diversity of New York City and the world. Digital and blended learning options support both in-person and remote learning environments.

Additional resources like Civics for All and Hidden Voices enrich the curriculum, while grade-level units guide students through essential questions that promote skill development in analyzing information, using evidence, and effective communication. Passport to Social Studies ensures students are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in a global society.

Course Sequence

Global I Grade 9 - The NYCPS Passport curriculum for Global History 1 (Grade 9) engages students in thinking like historians, covering global history from the Paleolithic Era to classical civilizations. Key themes include political power shifts, belief systems, and global trade. Structured around eight units, the curriculum focuses on historical thinking skills, preparing students for college, careers, and active global citizenship.

Global 2 Grade 10 - The NYCPS Passport curriculum for Global History II (Grade 10) covers global history from 1750 to the present, focusing on key trends and developments. It emphasizes historical thinking skills, including source analysis and argumentation, while exploring diverse perspectives. With essential questions guiding each unit, students engage in inquiry-based learning, preparing for the NYS Regents Exam. The curriculum also integrates literacy skills, helping students develop the critical thinking needed for college, career, and global citizenship.

US History Grade 11 - The NYC Passport curriculum for Grade 11 U.S. History prepares students for college, careers, and informed citizenship by developing historical thinking skills. Students analyze primary and secondary sources, explore the foundations of the United States, and build arguments based on evidence. The curriculum includes writing opportunities, aligned with the U.S. History and Government Regents exam, and incorporates interdisciplinary elements of geography, economics, and civics, fostering a comprehensive understanding of U.S. history and preparing students for future success.

Grade 12 Participation in Government - The NYC Passport curriculum for Grade 12 Participation in Government prepares students for active citizenship by exploring American democracy, government functions, and civic engagement. The semester-long course covers the foundations of democracy, civic participation, public policy, and how citizens influence government. Students develop critical thinking and research skills, analyze primary sources, and engage in civic action projects. The curriculum encourages students to actively participate in political processes, fostering informed, engaged citizens ready to contribute to their communities and society.

Grade 12 Economics - The NYC Passport curriculum for Grade 12 Economics explores three core units: Personal Finance, Markets, and Indicators. Students develop critical thinking skills through case studies and problem-based learning, examining topics like individual financial decisions, supply and demand, and economic indicators. The curriculum equips students with the knowledge to navigate the economic landscape, making informed decisions as individuals and global citizens. Essential questions guide each unit, fostering inquiry and understanding of real-world economic concepts.

AP World History - AP World History: Modern is a college-level course that covers global history from 1200 CE to the present, exploring themes like political structures, cultural exchange, economic systems, and social interactions. Students develop historical thinking skills by analyzing sources, contextualizing events, and building arguments. The course prepares students for the AP exam, which includes multiple-choice, short-answer, DBQ, and essay questions. A strong performance can earn college credit or advanced placement, offering students a head start on higher education.

AP US History - AP U.S. History (APUSH) is a college-level course that explores the history of the United States from pre-Columbian times to the present. It covers key events like the American Revolution, Civil War, and Progressive Era, focusing on the "why" behind historical events. Students develop critical thinking by analyzing sources, evaluating evidence, and making connections. The course prepares students for the AP exam, which can lead to college credit or placement. It also emphasizes themes like American identity, politics, culture, and social structures.

AP U.S. Government and Politics - AP U.S. Government and Politics is a college-level course that offers an in-depth study of the U.S. political system, its foundations, institutions, and processes. Students explore key documents like the U.S. Constitution, civil liberties, and rights, and analyze political behavior, policy-making, and the roles of government branches. The course emphasizes critical thinking, nonpartisanship, and civic engagement, preparing students for the AP exam and equipping them with the skills to analyze political information. Success in the exam may earn college credit.

AP African American Studies - AP African American Studies is a college-level course that explores the history, culture, and experiences of African Americans within the African diaspora. It takes an interdisciplinary approach, covering history, literature, art, and social sciences. Students examine key topics like ancient African civilizations, the transatlantic slave trade, the Civil Rights Movement, and contemporary issues of race and social justice. The course fosters critical thinking, engages with diverse perspectives, and prepares students for college-level study, potentially earning them college credit.