These units of study are designed around the idea that human civilizations develop and sustain themselves as a collection of interdependent systems.  Systems of leadership, economics, and architecture are examined in the historical context of the Middle Ages and Ancient Civilizations, with opportunities for students to compare these societies with their own community systems.  Activities in the units engage students in critical thinking and discussions about human systems.  Opportunities are provided for students to share knowledge and ideas through writing, drawing, and presenting.

These units of study provide an integrated approach to teaching students about our culturally diverse world.  In these cross-curricular units, students work in cooperative teams and individually to complete activities that emphasize critical, creative, and visual-thinking skills.

This unit of study is designed for students to learn about their urban environment.  The curriculum is designed to guide students in explorations of environmental issues relevant to themselves and their urban communities.  Through defining the environment and understanding ecological concepts, students are motivated to investigate and take action on issues on contemporary issues. Through this course, students develop a sense that these issues are pertinent to their lives and that they can have an impact.