Social Studies

Understanding the World and its People

In our challenging social studies courses, students become knowledgeable about the history and government of the United States, and the larger history of the western and non-western world. With such a rich background, Principia graduates can participate confidently in discussions of issues and ideas pertinent to a global society.

Courses are specifically designed to help students achieve three main goals: 

  1. Understand American society and learn the skills needed to become constructive members

  2. Develop a global outlook

  3. Become highly proficient writers and speakers, learn to analyze complex situations, and understand how to successfully defend a position

To help students achieve these important goals, the department provides a full spectrum of courses, including World Geography, Western and Non-Western Civilizations, U.S. History (regular, honors, and AP), Micro and Macro Economics, Investments, Capitalism, U.S. Government, Legal Issues, Ethics, Foreign Policy, and Current Issues.

We also value experiential learning opportunities as indispensable to the curriculum, including annual field trips to the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis, the Old Courthouse, Gateway Expansion Memorial, and the county courts, among others.

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“Last year, I spent at least one afternoon a week discussing history with my teacher. I asked him tons of questions. He knew so much. It was fascinating, non-stop learning for me.”

Upper School student