Social Studies & History Department

The Social Studies Department at Pacific American School is dedicated to cultivating a deep understanding of the world and helping students explore their role within it. We aim to go beyond teaching history, politics, economics, and geography by fostering critical thinking and analytical skills that enable students to thoughtfully engage with the complexities of an interconnected global society.

A Comprehensive Curriculum:

Our curriculum is designed to challenge students with a wide range of topics, offering college-level courses through Advanced Placement (AP) classes, including:

  • AP US History
  • AP World History
  • AP European History
  • AP US Government and Politics
  • AP Comparative Government and Politics
  • AP Human Geography
  • AP Macroeconomics
  • AP Microeconomics

These courses provide students with an opportunity to dive deeply into key areas of social sciences, building their knowledge while developing skills such as critical analysis, evidence-based argumentation, and thoughtful inquiry.

Critical Thinking at the Core:

We believe that understanding the world requires more than just memorizing dates and facts. Our program emphasizes the importance of analyzing diverse perspectives, evaluating historical and contemporary events, and understanding the interconnectedness of social, economic, and political systems. Through this approach, students learn to interpret complex global issues and contribute meaningfully to discussions about them.

Preparing Global Citizens

Our mission is to empower students to become informed, responsible, and active participants in the global community. By fostering empathy, cultural awareness, and a strong foundation in the social sciences, we prepare students to approach challenges with insight and integrity, making a positive impact on the world.

Through rigorous instruction and an emphasis on real-world application, the Social Studies Department equips PAS students with the knowledge and skills to navigate and shape an increasingly complex world confidently.

Creating Global Citizens

Studying literature and communication enables students to gain insights into the lives and experiences of others across different times, places, and cultures, fostering empathy and cultural awareness. This aligns with our broader mission of shaping students into globally-minded citizens who can engage thoughtfully, respectfully, and compassionately with the world. By developing these essential qualities, students are equipped to contribute meaningfully to society and engage with the diverse, interconnected global community.

At PAS, the English Department empowers students to become confident readers, skilled writers, and critical thinkers, providing them with the tools to succeed in higher education and make lasting contributions to the global community.