Social Studies
The Social Studies Department at Golden Valley High School
The goal of the Golden Valley Social Studies department is to provide a dynamic and relevant curriculum for students. We strive to go “beyond the textbook” and use many primary and secondary sources, simulations, project-based learning, authentic assessment and technology in order to help students understand that understanding the past is the only way we can navigate the future.
Golden Valley High School offers a comprehensive social studies program that includes both courses required for graduation and elective courses. Advanced Placement and honors courses are available for each grade level.
Grade Level |
Courses Offered |
Advanced Placement/Honors/Electives |
10th |
World History: 1 year |
AP European History: 1 year |
11th |
United States History: 1 year |
AP U.S. History: 1 year Elective: Psychology* Elective: Sociology* * for students in good standing |
12th |
Government: 1 semester Economics: 1 semester |
AP Government: 1 semester Honors Econ: 1 semester We the People (Honors Government): 1 semester * AP Psychology: 1 year Elective: Psychology Elective: Sociology *requires instructor approval |
The social studies department is proud to support several academic competitions, including Mock Trial, We the People….the Citizen and the Constitution, and our junior class public policy program, Project Citizen. Golden Valley has twice received statewide recognition for our programs, receiving the Civic Learning Award from the Chief Justice of the California Supreme Court.