La Frontera: An Application of the Theoretical Perspectives of Sociology

Barbara A. Prillaman

In this unit, high school students will focus on the guiding questions: What are the three major theoretical approaches of sociology? How can one compare and contrast each of the perspectives? What is the definition of a border? What are the causes and consequences of borders including the opportunities and barriers for those who encounter them? Following the Common Core Standards, students will read for meaning and interpret historical documents highlighting the American West including the Mexico/United States border, to better understand the sociological perspectives (Functionalist, Conflict, and Symbolic Interactionist). This unit is collaborative in nature, in that students in different schools will work together through the use of Google Docs and Blogs, to focus on developing their technological skills necessary for college or the work place. Additionally, they will participate in Socratic Seminars to critically read and prepare to actively participate in conversations to help them make meaning of the complex content.