Is anthropology taught in high school?

Anthropology in High School? More Common Than You Think (Maybe!)

So, anthropology in high school – is it a thing? Well, it’s not exactly sweeping the nation, but you might be surprised. While it’s not as common as, say, history or biology, this fascinating study of humans is popping up more and more in high schools. Think of it as an under-the-radar gem, offering a peek into what makes us tick, how societies work, and why different cultures do what they do.

Now, you probably won’t find anthropology in every high school across the U.S. . It tends to be more of an elective, and honestly, its availability often boils down to one key ingredient: a passionate teacher with some background in the field . You’re more likely to find it in private schools, charter schools, or even public schools in areas with more resources . But hey, that doesn’t mean it’s impossible to find!

Okay, so what exactly do you learn in an anthropology class? Well, most courses will give you a taste of the four main flavors: cultural anthropology, archaeology, biological anthropology, and linguistic anthropology . Think of it like this:

• Cultural Anthropology: This is where you dive into different cultures, exploring their customs, beliefs, and how they organize their societies.
• Archaeology: Ever dreamed of being Indiana Jones? Archaeology lets you dig into the past (sometimes literally!) by studying the stuff people left behind – tools, pottery, even entire cities.
• Biological Anthropology: This is the science-y side, where you learn about human evolution, genetics, and why we look and act the way we do.
• Linguistic Anthropology: Language isn’t just about words; it shapes how we think and how we interact with the world. Linguistic anthropology explores that connection.

The whole point of these courses is to get you thinking critically, to appreciate different perspectives, and to understand the world in a more nuanced way. You might even get to try your hand at some basic research methods, analyze real-life case studies, and explore topics ranging from ancient civilizations to the impact of globalization.

Why should you care about anthropology in high school? Let me tell you, it’s not just about dusty textbooks!

• It blows your mind (in a good way): Anthropology challenges you to question your own assumptions and see the world through different eyes. It’s like getting a backstage pass to the human experience.
• It makes you a smarter thinker: You’ll learn to analyze information, weigh different viewpoints, and build solid arguments. These are skills that will help you in any field.
• It helps you understand the headlines: From social justice movements to global conflicts, anthropology gives you a framework for understanding the complex issues shaping our world.
• It sets you up for success: Whether you want to be a journalist, a policy-maker, or even a tech entrepreneur, the skills you gain in anthropology – research, communication, problem-solving – are incredibly valuable.

But what if your high school doesn’t offer anthropology? Don’t despair! There are still plenty of ways to explore this fascinating field:

• Hit the internet: Lots of universities and organizations offer online courses and programs designed specifically for high schoolers.
• Summer adventures: Check out summer programs at universities – many offer intensive courses in anthropology, complete with lectures, seminars, and even fieldwork.
• Get your hands dirty: Look for internships with organizations like the American Anthropological Association or the Smithsonian Institution.
• Connect the dots: Even if you can’t take an anthropology class, courses in history, sociology, and world religions can give you a solid foundation.

There are people out there working hard to get anthropology into more K-12 classrooms . They know that it can spark curiosity, boost critical thinking, and help students make sense of our increasingly interconnected world.

So, keep an eye out! Anthropology might just be the most eye-opening class you never knew you needed. Who knows, it might even change the way you see the world.