Social Studies

Welcome to the Social Studies Department

Understand the Past. Analyze the Present. Lead the Future.

The Social Studies Department at Pike High School is more than just a place to study dates and maps—it is a laboratory for understanding the human experience. Led by Chairperson Chris Wilson, our department offers a diverse array of courses that challenge students to think critically about group dynamics, global history, economic systems, and the responsibilities of citizenship.

Whether you are curious about the inner workings of the human mind, the rise and fall of great empires, or the mechanics of the global stock market, we have a pathway for you.

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🌍 Global Perspectives & History

Embark on a journey through time and space. Our history and geography courses provide the context needed to understand today's headlines.

• World History & Geography: Explore the achievements of diverse cultures from ancient societies to the modern era.

• African American History: A deep dive into the early kingdoms of Africa, the influence of African culture in the Americas, and the modern establishment of independent nations.

• Indiana Studies: Discover how our state’s unique politics, arts, and literature fit into the larger national narrative.

🧠 The Science of the Self & Society

Why do we do what we do? Our behavioral science electives offer fascinating insights into human behavior.

• Psychology: Learn how psychologists solve human problems by studying growth, development, and personality.

• Sociology: Examine the "why" behind group behavior, exploring everything from family and religion to the roots of prejudice and discrimination.

⚖️ Civic Leadership & Economics

Prepare for life as an informed participant in a global democracy.

• U.S. Government: Master the rights and responsibilities of individuals in a constitutional democracy. We even offer a Blended Online Government option for students who want to practice college-level time management.

• Economics: Learn how logical choices drive the world’s scarce resources. All Economics students participate in a technology-based stock market project to see real-world financial decision-making in action.

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🎓 Advanced Placement (AP) & International Baccalaureate (IB)

For students seeking a rigorous academic challenge and the opportunity to earn college credit, we offer a robust selection of advanced courses with weighted grades:

• AP Psychology & AP Human Geography

• AP/DC United States History

• AP Micro & Macro Economics

• IB Twentieth Century Government & Politics

• AP European History

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🚀 Why Join Social Studies?

• Critical Inquiry: Learn to analyze primary sources and defend your own historical arguments.

• Real-World Skills: Participate in stock market simulations, civic decision-making, and independent research.

• Global Citizenship: Develop a heightened sensitivity to the feelings and needs of others while understanding the complex systems that govern our world.

"By viewing the problems of the past, students may gain a historical perspective of present problems."

Ready to explore?

Contact Chris Wilson at 317-216-5414 or 317-216-5416 to find the Social Studies pathway that sparks your curiosity!

Department Chair

Chris Wilson