12th Grade Contemporary America (1980-present) Passages

Examine the impact of the digital revolution on education, particularly in terms of improving access to information, customizing learning experiences, and encouraging global collaboration. Gain insights into the transformative effects of technology on classroom dynamics and the shifting role of educators in nurturing engaging learning environments.

Examine the interplay between globalization and technology in the global business landscape, with an emphasis on shifts in communication, transportation, and international trade barriers. Develop an understanding of the benefits and drawbacks of globalization, enhancing knowledge of its effects on businesses and economies worldwide.

Explore the significant eras of indigenous civil rights movements in Latin America and the Caribbean, emphasizing influential leaders and social justice. Develop an understanding of historical civil rights developments and their impact on current societal structures.

Examine the historical decline of textile mills in North Carolina by analyzing economic changes, globalization, and technological progress. Understand the socio-economic transformations in communities centered around textiles and evaluate the enduring effects on local economies and cultures.

Explore the transformation of urbanization and its substantial impacts on biodiversity and environmental health, covering key issues such as habitat loss, pollution, and food insecurity. Gain a deeper understanding of sustainability challenges, the importance of sustainable development practices, and the necessity for global collaboration to protect ecosystems for future generations.

Examine the diverse development of African societies up to 1500 CE, focusing on key civilizations like the Sudanic kingdoms and the role of trans-Saharan trade networks. Gain insights into the cultural synthesis due to the spread of Islam and understand the impacts of historical trade routes on socio-economic structures and intercontinental exchanges.

Focus on the significant events and influential figures of the French Revolution and the rise of nationalist revolutions in Europe and Latin America. Understand the roles of key personalities and political philosophies to enhance comprehension of historical cause and effect and the development of modern political ideologies.

Examine the advanced societies of the Mayans, Incas, and Aztecs, recognized for their remarkable architectural and engineering achievements in the Americas. Gain insights into these civilizations' sophisticated urban planning, scientific advancements, and cultural accomplishments. The focus is on understanding their complex societal structures and the impact of their innovations on contemporary knowledge.

Investigate the evolution and global significance of Earth Day, with a focus on its historical roots and influence on environmental policy. Gain insights into the beginnings of environmental awareness and explore ongoing global efforts aimed at sustainability and environmental protection.

Examine the insights of Alexis de Tocqueville in 'Democracy in America,' focusing on his analysis of the political and cultural landscape of American society. Gain a deeper understanding of democratic principles, explore the balance between liberty and equality, and study the dynamics of social mobility in the context of 19th-century America.

Examine key events and technological breakthroughs of the Space Race, highlighting the launch of Sputnik and the Apollo 11 mission. Gain insights into the historical context, explore the political impacts, and evaluate the technological advancements that emerged from this period.

Investigate the transformative impact of the Bantu migrations and the rise of early American civilizations, such as the Olmec and Chavin. Examine their cultural and technological advancements to gain insights into historical migration patterns and their influence on societal evolution across diverse regions, enhancing the understanding of ancient global history.

Analyze the significant milestones and impacts of Earth Day from its inception in 1970 to its evolution as a global event addressing critical issues like climate change. Understand shifts in environmental policy and explore the ongoing relevance of Earth Day in fostering sustainable practices and enhancing public health. Learners will gain insights into environmental advocacy and the role of Earth Day in promoting awareness and action. The focus will be on understanding historical developments, policy changes, and modern challenges in environmental protection.

Explore the role and impact of special interest groups, including lobbying and Political Action Committees, on public policy and societal dynamics. Learners develop an understanding of how these groups influence government decisions and public opinion, assessing the positive and negative implications of their actions within the political landscape.

Explore the scientific, ethical, and societal dimensions of genetically modified organisms, focusing on Bt Corn and Golden Rice as solutions to global agricultural and nutritional challenges. Gain an understanding of technological advancements, evaluate the benefits and controversies of GMOs, and develop critical thinking skills related to future GMO innovations.

Investigate the discovery of a supergiant gold deposit in Hunan Province, China, and assess its potential impact on global markets and mining practices. Understand the economic and geological implications of such discoveries, exploring the challenges and processes involved in gold mining and evaluation. Enhance comprehension skills by analyzing the effects on economics and geology.

Examine the cultural significance and historical development of roadside attractions, including examples such as Buc-ee’s and other iconic landmarks. Understand the importance of these attractions by identifying common themes and exploring the innovative promotional techniques that have engaged audiences throughout history.

Analyze Michel Guillaume Jean de Crèvecœur's reflections on the formation of American identity through the experiences of emigrants and the cultural melting pot in the American colonies. Gain insights into the self-identification process and the transformation of European emigrants into Americans, exploring historical perspectives on national identity and cultural integration.

Analyze the contrasting food cultures and fast food dynamics of the U.S. and South Korea, examining dietary habits and school meal programs. Gain insights into the broader implications of food culture on health and the environment. Compare how each country is adapting to global dietary trends, enhancing understanding of the cultural and nutritional landscape.

Analyze the pivotal events of the September 11, 2001 attacks and their immediate impact on American society. Examine the resulting geopolitical shifts to understand the chronology of the events, the key figures involved, and the long-term implications for international relations and national security policies.