9-12 Curriculum Detail

Department

History

AP HUMAN GEOGRAPHY

Human geography takes an interdisciplinary approach to the study of human existence, bringing together fields as diverse as economics, politics, history, environmental science, and geography. It asks two main questions. First, where have humans established institutions such as ethnic groups, nations, cities, and industries? And second, why did we establish these institutions in these particular places? Students will examine social and economic organization, and the environmental consequences of the choices humans make. This course is open to juniors and seniors.

(Dr. Thomas. Year Course - 1 credit)
HISTORY - African-American Exp

THE AFRICAN-AMERICAN EXPERIENCE(S)

The story of black people in America is that of the struggle for equality of freedom. Still, altogether too often the experience of black people in the United States is treated monolithically. In reality, not only have African Americans been in America since the beginning of European settlement, but their history has also contained a broad range of experiences shaped by class, culture, freedom status, gender, region and religion. In this course, we will not only study how the African American experience has evolved throughout history, but also the diversity of experiences among black Americans from the colonial period through today. This course is open to juniors and seniors.

(Mr. Lewis. Fall Semester - 1⁄2 credit)
HISTORY - Decolonization

“Decolonization” has multiple meanings. In this course, it refers to the undoing of empire and the achievement of independence by former European colonies and protectorates in Asia and Africa in the decades following World War II. We will examine this process of decolonization both from the perspectives of the metropoles--that is the imperial powers, such as Great Britain and France--and the formerly colonized. We begin the course with a survey of European imperialism and the establishment of empires. We will then investigate the end of empire in various settings, including India, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and East and West Africa. Throughout, we will seek to engage major questions and issues such as the causes of decolonization, the international and regional contexts, nationalism, political leadership, violence and revolution, and legacies. The course is open to juniors and seniors. Students will be evaluated on quizzes, tests, short papers, and class participation.

(Mr. Cate. Spring Semester - ½ credit)
HISTORY - SUMMER History of American Capitalism
HISTORY - The Civil War Era

This one-semester course will assess the causes and consequences of the most transformative and destructive war in United States history. While the military history of the Civil War will be addressed, the primary focus will be upon how the Civil War era reshaped the United States’ political system, economy, and social structure. Particular attention will also be devoted to the African-American experience. This course is open to juniors and seniors.

(Dr. Foulds. Spring Semester - 1⁄2 credit)
UNITED STATES HISTORY

The last in the Department's required sequence, this course analyzes the national experience from its roots in colonial times to the present. More than a political survey, the course considers American values, intellectual life, and other aspects of American culture. A research paper requiring the use of primary sources is an essential part of the year plan. Appropriate secondary sources are integrated throughout the syllabus. Evaluation is done through quizzes, essay tests, writing assignments, and oral presentations. Students with a deep interest in History who are willing to work independently outside of class should consider registering in the fall for the AP United States History Exam, which takes place in May.

(History Faculty. Year Course - 1 credit)
WORLD HISTORY TO 1500

This introductory course to human history spans the globe from the origins of humankind to approximately the year 1500 CE (Common Era). Students will be exposed to an array of written and visual sources, and come to an appreciation of the nature and variety of historical evidence as they study the development of and interactions among peoples, states, civilizations, and empires. Topics include the importance of agriculture, the rise of cities, the development of communication means, the evolution of technology, the rise and fall of empires, the conduct of warfare, and the emergence of intellectual thought and religions.
(History Faculty. Year Course - 1 credit)

WHERE PROMISING BOYS GRADUATE AS CONFIDENT YOUNG MEN

Unlike Other Private High Schools in Cleveland, Ohio

As one of the leading private high schools in Cleveland, Ohio, University School’s Upper School program (grades 9-12) is designed to promote each student's academic and personal growth. Led by a talented and committed faculty, students pursue traditional liberal arts studies within an innovative educational framework.

At US, students thrive in a community where they develop their academic, athletic and artistic talents. They unleash their intellectual curiosity and leadership talents. They sharpen their ability to think deeply, to study effectively, and to express themselves clearly. With a wide range of electives, independent study opportunities, advanced placement, and college-level courses, students are superbly prepared for college and beyond.

It is precisely the depth and quality of our program that gives US boys an unparalleled advantage in today’s highly competitive climate of college admissions. One hundred percent of US graduates matriculate to four-year colleges. Many are represented at the most rigorous institutions in the nation. We are proud of this record, but we are most proud of the fact that our graduates are thoughtful, confident, and well-rounded young men.

US faculty members are carefully selected for their ability to communicate, connect and inspire. They are a continuing source of guidance and friendship for many students long after they have graduated from the school. These highly qualified, creative educators, most of whom hold advanced degrees, are deeply committed to their students, giving their time and attention to each student’s academic and emotional life. Our teachers are coaches, advisors and mentors who care deeply about each boy’s interests and personal concerns, as well as his academic work.

We are unlike any of the other private high schools in Cleveland, Ohio. The new academic, arts, and music spaces at the Hunting Valley campus feature spacious classrooms and interactive technology. Our stunning 221-acre campus is a treasured outdoor classroom where students raise native brook trout, tap maple trees for syrup, and operate the sugarhouse. Please contact us today to schedule a visit and see for yourself how US can make a difference in your son’s life!

Meet Our Faculty

Alan Cate

History Chairperson, History Teacher, Mock Trial Coach, Student Disciplinary Committee

216-831-2200 x7304

acate@us.edu
Betsy Coy

Upper School Dean of Students, Freshman Class Dean

216-831-2200 x7341

bcoy@us.edu
Matthew Foulds

Head of Sanders House, History Teacher, Reid Chairholder in History, US News Advisor, Mock Trial Coach

216-831-2200 x7506

mfoulds@us.edu
Shaadi Khoury

History Teacher, Speech and Debate Coach

skhoury@us.edu
Joshua Leto

Director of Wean Research Library, History Teacher

216-831-2200 ext.7299

jleto@us.edu
James Lewis

History Teacher, Speech and Debate Advisor, Jarvis Chair in Religion and Ethics

216-831-2200x7412

jlewis@us.edu
Brian Perry

History Teacher, Math Teacher, Swimming & Diving Coach

216-831-2200 x7452

bperry@us.edu
Celena Roebuck

Entrepreneurship Teacher; Byrnes Scholars Advisor

croebuck@us.edu
Samuel Thomas

Head of Hawley House, History Teacher, Swimming & Diving Coach

216-831-2200 x7408

sthomas@us.edu
Joshua Walker

History Teacher

jwalker@us.edu
Tyler Yoder

History Teacher, Middle School Basketball Coach

216-831-2200 x7348

tyoder@us.edu