The study of Individuals and Societies is the search for patterns that reflect human experience. Laws, languages, institutions, arts, industries, political experiments, economic theories, religious values, military ambitions—all of these and more project the image of that experience. Individuals and Societies courses provide a glimpse of what has been, what is, and what might be, and they develop in students a curiosity about and sensitivity to the environment in which we live. All Individuals and Societies courses have been developed to raise questions. They challenge students to assess and interpret, and they provide a framework for recognizing and accepting personal and citizenship responsibility.
The study of Individuals and Societies contribute to the total Shaker Heights High School experience by encouraging students to acquire the ability to:
- Grasp a question, to gather and analyze data, to marshal pertinent arguments, and to reach sound conclusions
- Communicate, both in oral and written expression, with clarity and conviction
- Develop open-mindedness that is reflected in respect for another point of view, tolerance for ambiguity, passion for truth, and respect for facts
- Foster sensitivity to religious, racial, ethical and ethnic differences
- Make personal choices characterized by courage, dedication and moral decisiveness.
Please Note: The courses and grade levels below represent typical programming pathways. Shaker Heights High School's counseling staff can help direct students and their families to the courses that best fit a student's academic needs.