STATEMENT OF PHILOSOPHY
The History and Political Science curriculum at Interlochen Arts Academy assumes the responsibility for stimulating an awareness of the human condition. The goals of the department, therefore, emphasize the application of rational thinking to an understanding of man's historical, economic, political, and social development.  The consideration of societal issues and the acquisition of the knowledge and skills that are fundamental and basic to the disciplines of History and Political Science are taught.

Objectives:
Each student will be instructed in the skills of analysis and critical judgment employed by historians and political scientists as they view, translate, evaluate, and record past and contemporary events.
Each student will be instructed in effective analytical reading, writing, and rhetorical skills.
Each student will examine change and continuity in time and draw logical conclusions by identifying the political, social, and economic conditions of sequential historical periods.
Each student will examine the complexities of the political process by distinguishing the roles of various institutions within the governmental structure and the relationship between the individual and society.

WORLD HISTORY 1: PREHISTORY - A.D. 500  (WH) 
Offered in 2007-2008
Grades 9-12
First semester
.50 credit, class meets daily.

This is an elective course for 9th and 10th grade students which is designed to build a foundation for understanding the beginnings of human history across different cultures and civilizations in both Western and non-Western societies. The connections among archeology, anthropology and history will form the introduction of the course. Emphasis will be placed on the interaction among world cultures, the linking of the past and present, and the importance of the relationship of geography and history. Ideas and concepts which bridge the space between the ancient and the modern world will be stressed, including the development of art, philosophy and religion. This course will also be open to 11th and 12th grade students, with higher standards for exams and written requirements.

Objectives:
To develop an understanding of continuity and change as basic to the patterns of early histories of
human societies around the world.
To develop an understanding of geography and history in the formation of culture and civilizations.
To develop basic skills such as:
map orientation
timeline grids to visualize cultural growth and development and relationships among cultures.
To identify cause and effect relationships in history.

WORLD HISTORY 3: 1500 to 1815 (WH)
Not Offered in 2008-2009
Grades 9-12
First semester
.50 credit, class meets daily.

This is an elective course for 9th and 10th grade students and is designed to provide a foundation for understanding the transition of the world's civilizations from the beginnings of Western exploration of the non-Western world into the early modern age.  Emphasis will be placed on the increased interaction among different and diverse societies by exploration and empire building.  The impact of the past upon the present will be stressed by exploring the roots of the current conditions and conflicts.  The study of the expansion of Western civilization outside of Europe into the Americas, Asia, and Africa will focus on the connection between geography and history. Incorporated within the course are readings related to the development of ideas, warfare, technology, science, philosophy and religion.  This course will be open to 11th and 12th grade students, with higher standards for exams and written requirements.

Objectives:
To develop an understanding of continuity and change as basic to patterns of history.
To develop an understanding of geography and history to explain the impact of geography upon world events.  The increased interaction among civilizations and cultures caused by trade and empire expansion will be stressed.
To develop basis skills such as:
 Map orientation
 Timeline grids to visualize cultural growth and development and relationships in history.
To identify cause and effect relationships in history and to develop critical thinking skills.

Text:
Farah, World History