Schools

Human geography course a first of its kind for Valley Stream district

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Students in the Valley Stream Central High School District’s four schools are learning how humans use and shape the earth we live on thanks to the introduction of a new element to the curriculum.

The course, advanced placement human geography, examines “patterns and processes that have shaped human understanding, use and alteration of the earth’s surface and atmosphere,” according to the district. Students use methods employed by geographers, including observation, data gathering and reporting, technical writing, mapmaking and other tools to develop a geographic understanding of historical and current events. The course explores issues such as natural resource depletion, sustainability and alternative fuel technology.

“It is an interdisciplinary look at how humankind — culture — is shaped by environmental conditions and in turn modifies that same environment,” said Thomas Troisi, assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction. “This is also a unique course of study in that it will provide our students, especially our ninth-graders, with an opportunity to challenge themselves with rigorous college-level course work.”

Students in grades nine through 12 who enroll can earn college credit, advanced placement or both.

Superintendent Bill Heidenreich said the coursework calls for creative and critical thinking that pushes students to refine their analytical and problem-solving skills. He said the course’s implementation comes as more of the district’s students embrace advanced placement courses. A record high of 290 students earned AP Scholar Awards for their performance on the last round of advanced placement exams