Social Studies Department
Department Philosophy
Junípero Serra High School’s Social Studies Department offers a rigorous, college-preparatory program that challenges students to study history with depth and purpose. Students analyze historical events and modern issues through close reading of primary and secondary sources, developing the habits of inquiry essential to advanced academic work.
Through discussion-based classes and written analysis, students learn to reason clearly, engage respectfully with differing viewpoints, build empathy and understand the lasting impact of historical decisions. The department prepares students to enter college as confident thinkers and informed citizens, prepared for active participation in a pluralistic democracy and global society.
Social Studies Courses
- World History 1
- Honors World History 1
- Honors World History 2
- United States History
- AP United States History
- Government
- AP United States Government and Politics
- Economics
- The 20th Century, elective
- California History, elective
- History of Genocide: A Study of Human Responsibility, elective
- Black History, elective
- Ethnic Studies, elective
- Psychology, elective
- AP Psychology, elective
- Mock Trial, elective
- Social Studies TA, elective
Tri-School Courses
- AP Psychology
- Sports Psychology
Initial Placement
Incoming freshmen are initially placed in World History 1 or Honors World History 1 by the Assistant Principal: Academics, based on the student’s HSPT test scores, middle school grades and teacher recommendations.
Honors and AP Courses
Following freshman year, students who meet established criteria outlined in the Serra Course Catalog are eligible to enroll in honors and AP courses, which include:
- Honors World History 2
- Honors World History 2
- AP United States History
- AP United States Government and Politics
- AP Psychology
Student Opportunities
Students can deepen their interest in social sciences through diverse co-curricular experiences.
Democracy Now! Club: A forum for students to voice their opinions on politics and current events. Guest speakers, field trips and an annual speech contest round out the experience.
Mock Trial Team: Working in teams under the guidance of volunteer attorney coaches and teachers, students analyze the facts of a hypothetical criminal court case, prepare trial strategy and enact every role in the trial proceedings, as members of either the prosecution or defense.
Stocks and Economics Club: Members develop useful investing skills by competing against friends online in a fun, accurate and interactive stock market game.
Close Up: The Close Up Foundation gives students an opportunity to explore U.S. government firsthand through an immersive, week-long program in Washington, D.C. Participants visit historic sites, meet with lawmakers and take part in discussions and workshops that build civic understanding and leadership skills.
