Social Studies – Advanced Placement®

While also meeting the curricular requirements in the Alberta Program of Studies, AP students embark on an exploration into the cultural, political and economic development of the Western World from 1300 CE to the present. Highly motivated and inquisitive, AP students are challenged with rigorous analysis and interpretation of historical data to attempt to understand the context for past events. In doing so, AP students make connections that reveal the story of history. The exam for Western World History (European History AP) is written in May of the third year. AP students learn at an accelerated pace while being surrounded by like-minded, high-achieving classmates. Heavy emphasis is also placed on independent study, which requires highly motivated, self-directed students dedicated to academic exploration. Most importantly, exceptional reading and writing skills are required for successful achievement in the Advanced Placement sequence.

• It is recommended that students who enroll in this course sequence have Social Studies 9 or have received a mark of 80% and above in Social Studies Pre-AP 10-1 or Social Studies 10-1, Social Studies Pre-AP 20-1 or Social Studies 20-1, with teacher recommendation for sequence to the next course level.

Social Studies (-1) Sequence

The (-1) sequence is designed for students who wish to pursue post-secondary studies. With each level, the pace and course work increases, requiring strong organizational skills, analytical ability and self-discipline. Proficient reading and writing skills are necessary for success. Comprehension and analysis of texts is a key component in both the class work and examinations. Over three years, students work to improve their written expression, critical thinking skills, and application of complex course concepts necessary for successful achievement on the Grade 12 Diploma Examination.

The (-1) sequence helps students to develop the knowledge and skills that will enable them to become active, informed and responsible citizens. An examination of globalization, nationalism and liberalism will provide students with an informed background enabling them to responsibly participate in a democratic society.

• Students who wish to further pursue academic studies in university are recommended to register in this Social Studies programming sequence.

Social Studies (-2) Sequence

The (-2) sequence empowers students who are seeking to improve their reading, writing and/or test-taking skills. While the course concepts remain the same as the (-1) sequence, the pace and complexity is not as demanding in order to ensure students fully understand course concepts. A greater emphasis is placed on effective use of class time to complete assignments, which lessens the need for homework on a regular basis. Students who excel in this stream attend class on a regular basis, make excellent use of their class time and demonstrate the motivation to learn. Over three years, students improve their reading comprehension and develop specific written responses to ensure successful achievement on the Grade 12 Diploma Examination. This stream will also be of interest to those students pursuing some post-secondary studies, including colleges and technical trade schools as well as those wishing to enter the work force.

The (-2) sequence helps students to develop the knowledge and skills that will enable them to become active, informed and responsible citizens. An examination of globalization, nationalism and liberalism will provide students with an informed background enabling them to responsibly participate in a democratic society.

Social Studies – Arts-Centered Learning

Arts-Centered Learning offers inquisitive, creative and highly motivated students the opportunity to enrich their Social Studies program. Not only do ACL students learn through the arts in some areas of the Social Studies classroom, they also have the opportunity to demonstrate their understanding of course concepts through artistic expression. Strong reading and writing skills are necessary for students to work in this fast paced course. Through each level, ACL students must meet course standards in reading comprehension and written responses to successfully prepare for their respective Grade 12 Diploma Examination.

• Formal applications are required in order to be considered for acceptance in to this alternate Social Studies programming method. Please contact the school’s ACL Learning Leader for more information. Course recommendations are consistent with the (-1) and (-2) sequences.

Social Studies – Knowledge and Employability

In Social Studies KAE, students further their confidence and preparedness for employment, citizenship and lifelong learning. To be successful, KAE students must demonstrate a positive attitude towards school, regular attendance, and a desire to improve their reading and writing skills within the context of the Social Studies classroom. With guided support tools, students explore, investigate and/or conduct research to answer questions that address each of the specific outcomes identified in the Alberta program of studies. In the process, students make links between their new learning and what is happening in the world around them, both locally and globally. This leads to improved competence and confidence in a student’s own skills and ability.

• Students enrolled in Grade 9 KAE Social Studies or who have a mark below 40% in Grade 9 Social Studies , are advised to register for this Social Studies programming sequence. This programming sequence meets the Social Studies qualifications to receive an Alberta Certificate of High School Achievement.