Academics
Curriculum
History
History courses are offered to students in grades 7-12. The history curriculum not only provides students with a strong foundation of historical knowledge, but also helps student develop analytical and critical thinking skills. Students apply their understanding through a variety of projects and hands-on interpretation. They showcase critical thinking skills in debates, persuasive presentations, and research.
Core History classes cover global cultures, U.S. history, government, civics, geography, European history, and Western Civilization. Honors and AP course options are abundant available throughout the curriculum.
The History Department also offers an exciting variety of elective classes, including classes in Economics, International Diplomacy, Film Theory, and AP economics classes.
Courses
List of 12 items.
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Social Studies 7 & Honors Social Studies 7: The Western World
This 7th grade core course is an examination of the countries of the Western Hemisphere and Europe using geography, history and culture. This course also has an Honors class with a prerequisite of a grade of 80 or better in previous honors courses, or 90 or better in another History course. -
Social Studies 8 & Honors Social Studies 8: The Eastern World
This 8th grade core course explores the physical geography and diverse cultures of Asia, Africa and Oceania. There is a strong emphasis on learning classroom skills, study skills, research basics, geographic literacy and cultural tolerance. The course is available with Honors prerequisites of a grade of 80 or higher in previous honors courses or 90 or higher in other History courses and/or teacher recommendation. -
Comparative Cultures
In this 7th-9th grade core course, students explore different cultures of the world while improving their English skills through many interactive activities. -
World History & Honors World History
This 9th grade core course is a survey of world history from the dawn of humanity to the end of the European Middle Ages, ca. 1500 AD. There is a strong emphasis on learning classroom skills, study skills, geographic literacy, research and reporting. Honors prerequisites are a grade of 80 or higher in subsequent honors courses or 90 or higher in other History courses and/or teacher recommendation. -
International Diplomacy and Model UN
This 10th-12th grade elective course examines international diplomacy and the role of the UN in it. Students in this class will participate in a Model UN convention. -
Contemporary History
IN this 9th-12th grade core course, students explore historical events from 1945 to the present, with a mix of daily global current events. -
U.S. History & Honors U.S. History
This 10th grade core course is a survey of American History from colonial times through the 20th century. Honors prerequisites are a grade of 80 or higher in previous honors courses or 90 or higher in other History courses and/or teacher recommendation. -
AP U.S. History
This 10th – 12th grade course is a chronological survey of American history from pre-Columbian times to present times using textbook, video/movies, literature, original documents, and group discussion. There is a heavy emphasis on writing exercises. All students are expected to take the AP US History Exam in May. -
European History
This 11th or 12th grades course is a survey of the key events of the Western Experience, from Antiquity to the 20th century. -
Honors European History
This course for 11th grade is an overview of European history from the Late Middle Ages to the present. Emphasis is on economic, political and social themes. Students practice skills such as the analysis of historical materials, the writing of document-based and free response essays, and multiple choice testing. It is designed to challenge honors-level students. Prerequisites for this course are a grade of 80 or higher in previous honors courses or 90 or higher in other History courses and/or teacher recommendation. -
AP European History
The curriculum of this 11th grade course traces the history of Europe from the Renaissance of the 14th century to the modern age. Students practice skills such as the analysis of historical materials, the writing of document-based and free response essays, and multiple choice testing. Students are required to take the AP exam in May. Prerequisites are a grade of 80 or higher in previous honors courses or 90 or higher in other History courses and/or teacher recommendation. -
AP World History
AP World History is a college-level survey course for 12th grade that broadly reconstructs global history from antiquity to the modern age. Furthermore, AP World History is a comparative study of Western, and non-Western civilizations. Finally, AP World History is a course of study that places an emphasis on the cultural, social, economic, political and intellectual themes that have shaped our world. Students will be required to take the AP Exam in May. This course satisfies the "Global" graduation requirement.
Electives
List of 6 items.
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AP Art History
This course is designed to meet the requirements outlined for an introductory college course in Art History. It helps students to develop an understanding and knowledge of architecture, sculpture, painting, and other art forms within diverse historical and cultural contexts. Students will examine major forms of artistic expression from the ancient world to the present day from a variety of cultures and will learn to look at works of art critically, with intelligence and sensitivity . Students will learn strategies of analysis, develop a firm understanding of the Elements of Art and Principles of Design, and become fluent in the use of fundamental art historical terminology. Finally, although emphasis is placed on Western European art, artistic traditions beyond the Western tradition will be fully integrated in the curriculum. Students are required to take the AP Art History exam in May. -
AP Human Geography - Grade: 12
AP Human Geography is a college-level survey course for 12th grade. Students will explore how humans have understood, used, and changed the surface of Earth. Students will use the tools and thinking processes of geographers to examine patterns of human population, migration, socioeconomic organization, and land use. There is an emphasis on geographic place in the modern world. Students will be required to take the AP Exam in May. Prerequisites: Final average of 80% or higher in previous honors courses or 90% or higher in previous History courses and/or teacher recommendation. -
AP Macroeconomics
Prerequisites: Algebra II & AP Microeconomics (with a grade of 80 or better in each course).
This 11th -12th elective course analyzes the principles of economics that apply to an economic system as a whole – on both a national and international scale. Topics of study include but are not limited to: economic organization of society, business cycles, national income accounting, the relationship between inflation and unemployment, money and banking, exchange rates and international macroeconomics, the multiplier model, fiscal policy, government budgets, and monetary policy. Students will be required to take the AP Exam in May. -
AP Microeconomics
Prerequisites: Algebra II (with a grade of 80 or better).
This 10th -12th elective course analyzes the principles of economics that apply to the functions of individual decision makers, both consumers and producers, within the economic system as we try to answer a central economic concern: how do we make choices in the face of scarcity – unlimited wants and limited resources. Topics of study include but are not limited to: economic reasoning, supply and demand, consumer behavior, firm behavior, public welfare, market structures, economic inequity, and government regulation. Students will be required to take the AP Exam in May. -
Film Theory
This 10th-12th grade elective course explores films and the film industry by looking at the complex art form and exploring the process of filmmaking. The course places an emphasis on developing study skills, class discussion, and film analysis. -
Honors Art History
This course is designed to help students develop an understanding and knowledge of architecture, sculpture, painting, and other art forms within diverse historical and cultural contexts. Students will examine major forms of artistic expression from the ancient world to the present day from a variety of cultures and will learn to look at works of art critically, with intelligence and sensitivity. Students will learn strategies of analysis, develop a firm understanding of the Elements of Art and Principles of Design, and become fluent in the use of fundamental art historical terminology. Finally, although emphasis is placed on Western European art, artistic traditions beyond the Western tradition will be fully integrated in the curriculum.
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March is Women's History Month
March is Women’s History Month! While girls and women are valued and celebrated all year long at Grier, this month-long celebration designated by Congress is a reminder to examine the contributions of women to American history, to celebrate the accomplishments of women throughout history, and to learn more about the struggles women have overcome and what issues women face today.Read More -
Happy Inauguration Day: Celebrating Women's History!
In honor of the inauguration of the first ever female Vice President of the United States on today, January 20, 2021, Grier students had opportunities to witness the events of the day and to celebrate women’s suffrage and the role of women in politics by wearing yellow roses, a symbol of support for women’s suffrage.Read More -
Teacher Spotlight Series is 10 Episodes Strong and Counting!
If you have been following Grier on social media, you have probably seen videos from our Grier TV Teacher Spotlight series filmed and produced by tenth grade student, Edith M. At the onset of remote learning in March, Edith began interviewing Grier teachers via Zoom and has continued the process, resulting in several videos that give Grier faculty members the opportunity to share a bit about themselves.Read More -
Canvas LMS Extends Grier Classrooms
Grier students, both those learning in-person and learning virtually from afar, are using software called Canvas LMS. As a learning management software (LMS), Canvas provides a singular place for students to login and access information for all their Grier classes. Students can collaborate and communicate with each other and their teachers within the framework of Canvas. Additionally, Canvas is a widely popular LMS choice for schools, colleges, and universities.Read More -
Model UN Delegates Share Experiences at Virtual Conference
Grier’s Model UN Club participated in the first online Pennsylvania High School Model United Nations Conference (PHUNC) at Penn State University October 30 - November 1.Read More
Model UN advisor Mr. Steve Packnick writes, “Everyone worked really hard in committee and did a really great job. I’m so proud of how this club has performed in this difficult virtual format and rose to the occasion.” Grier received two individual awards and a group award. -
Recognizing Indigenous Peoples' Day
Many at Grier observe Indigenous Peoples’ Day this Monday, October 12, 2020. This day is a holiday to celebrate and honor histories, cultures, and people indigenous to America. Grier’s History and English curricula create opportunities for students to celebrate and learn about Native Americans.Read More -
Celebrating the 100th Anniversary of the 19th Amendment
Read MoreThe year 2020 marks the 100th Anniversary of the ratification of the 19th Amendment, which granted women the right to vote in the United States. Early American suffragists spent years, even entire lifetimes, campaigning for the right to vote.The US suffrage movement formally began in 1848 with the Seneca Falls convention, just five years before Grier School was born. Activists Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Lucretia Mott, Martha Wright, Mary Ann McClintock, and Jane Hunt organized the convention. After decades of campaigns, protests, demonstrations, the right to vote finally came when US Congress passed the 19th Amendment on August 26, 1920, which stated, “the right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any state on account of sex.” -
Celebrating the 75th Anniversary of VE Day
This Friday, May 8th, marks the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe. This day, known as Victory in Europe Day, or VE Day, was when the Allied forces officially announced Germany’s surrender. In France, where the initial military surrender occurred in Reims on May 7th, the day is known as “Victoire 1945.” Past milestone anniversaries of VE Day have been celebrated with parades and festivities, but due to the pandemic this year, those wishing to celebrate the historic date must make alternative plans.Read More -
Grier's Award-Winning Model UN Club Attends Harrisburg Conference
Last month, the Model UN Club participated in the two-day Penn State Harrisburg Model UN Conference. Representing Palestine, Ethiopia, and Russia, the club argued for peace in the Middle East, religious tolerance in Europe, and even cyber security against terrorism.Read More -
Social Studies Class Feels the Rhythm of the Caribbean
With Carnival season just around the corner, it is a great time for the eighth grade students in their World Geography Social Studies class to learn all about the Caribbean, including how to Salsa dance! Their teacher, Mr. Chad Llewellyn spoke to his class about several aspects of the Caribbean culture, including the food (jerk chicken, yum!) and the music.Read More -
Grier Model UN Attends Conference at PSU
Grier Model UN club members participated in the first conference of the year, the PHUNC VII, at Penn State University. Delegates faced huge challenges ranging from climate change and cyber security, to revolution in Haiti and Yemen, and even the restoration of the Ministry of Magic! Everyone put in a great showing and Julia G. won a commendation for her work in the Independence of Mars!Read More -
Historic Dinner Party of Enlightened Guests
Students in AP and Honors European History classes researched major figures from the Age of Enlightenment and showcased their knowledge during a class “Dinner Party” where students acted and dressed like their famous personae.Read More -
Departments Recognize Academic Excellence
during a special all-school assembly on Monday, May 20th, Department Heads from Modern Languages, English, Math, Science, and History presented class awards to students in grades 7-11. These awards are presented to students who have demonstrated a winning combination of academic excellence, dedication to learning, and a genuine interest in the subject matter. Congrats, girls!Read More -
Grier Participates in 47th Model UN Conference
Congratulations are due to Grier’s Model UN Club members who competed at the 47th Model UN Conference held at Penn State Harrisburg this month. During this two-day event, the students discussed and developed ideas to solve global issues while also strengthening their understanding of United Nations operations. Grier girls competed in debates on the topics of nuclear disarmament, landmines, and the crisis in Yemen.Read More
Diana N received an award for Best Position Paper for her work on Disarmament. Molly J was awarded Outstanding Delegate in a Crisis and Julia G won Best Delegate for her work in the Game of Thrones Crisis committee. Model UN club advisor and history teacher Mr. Steven Packnick applauds the students for their great work. -
A Win for Grier Model UN
Read MoreStudents in Mr. Packnick’s Model UN class participated in the PHUNC VI conference at Penn State University in November. The girls participated in various committees tackling a wide range of situations including the outbreak of WWI, the Indian Independence Movement, the Meiji Restoration of Japan, and the Traditional American Pantheon Today! The girls made alliances, passed resolutions, changed history throughout the weekend. Their hard work was rewarded with the award for Best Small Delegation and one of our students, Molly J. was awarded an Honorable Mention for her efforts. Way to go, girls! -
History Curriculum Fosters Analytical and Critical Thinking Skills
Read MoreTeachers in Grier’s History Department do an amazing job of helping students unravel and understand events from the past and relate them to issues in the present. The teachers help students succeed using a multitude of methods, from traditional classroom lectures, readings, and discussions to hands-on activities, field trips, multimedia learning, creative projects, and more. -
Grier Students Honor Victims with Walkout
Read MoreThis morning, on the 19th anniversary of the tragedy at Columbine High School, Grier Students and members of the faculty and staff gathered in the Colonnade in support of safe schools and to honor the victims of school shootings. Many of the participants chose to wear the color orange, a symbol of the National School Walkout movement. -
International Food Bazaar HUGE Success!
Read MoreAfter weeks of planning and preparation, the whole school united for an amazing celebration of global awareness. Coinciding with another event that unites the world, the Olympic Winter games in PyeongChang, Korea, the 2nd Annual International Food Bazaar featured twenty different student groups, each representing a unique nationality, region, or ethnicity. Every group was responsible for serving a dish, decorating their tables, giving a performance, and creating souvenirs. -
History Students Experience Life as Early Humans
Read MoreLab Days are excellent opportunities for special projects and learning experiences in the classrooms. Lab Days double the length of class periods and span two academic days each marking period. These days earned their moniker because they originally allowed science classes to complete the longer format lab experiments. While the Science Department certainly continues to use the days for this purpose, other departments and teachers use these days in a variety of ways. -
Students Experience U.S. History During Trip to Gettysburg
Read MoreLast Saturday, a group of students rose early in the morning to depart with History teacher, Mrs. Keri Salyards on a coach bus to Gettsyburg, Pennsylvania. When the students and chaperones arrived at Gettysburg National Military Park, an engaging tour guide brought Civil War history to life.
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