Social Studies provides opportunities for students to develop the attitudes, skills and knowledge that will enable them to become informed, engaged, active, and responsible citizens. Recognition and respect for individual and collective identity is essential in a pluralistic and democratic society. Social Studies encourages students to develop their sense of self and community and their place as citizens within an inclusive, democratic society.
Course Descriptions
Courses in Social Studies are offered with instruction in English and French (F) where enrolment warrants.
Aboriginal Studies 10/20/30
(5 credits)
Aboriginal Studies 10–20–30 enhances understanding of the diverse Aboriginal cultures within Alberta, Canada, and the world. Students will examine how Aboriginal peoples are striving toward maintaining and promoting cultures and identities that reflect values based on respect for the laws of nature and a continual pursuit of balance among individuals, the family unit, the larger community, and global community context. The goal of Aboriginal Studies is to shift thinking, understanding and knowledge of Aboriginal people, the issues and challenges they face, and the contributions they have made to society.
Social Studies 10‐1/10‐1F “Perspectives on Globalization”
(5 credits)
Students will explore multiple perspectives on the origins of globalization and the local, national and international impacts of globalization. Students will examine the relationships among globalization, citizenship and identity to enhance skills for citizenship in a globalizing world. The infusion of multiple perspectives will allow students to examine the effects of globalization on peoples in Canada and throughout the world, including the impact on Aboriginal and Francophone communities.
Social Studies 10‐2 “Living in a Globalizing World”
(5 credits)
Students will explore historical aspects of globalization as well as the effects of globalization on lands, cultures, human rights and quality of life. Students will explore the relationships among globalization, citizenship and identity. The infusion of multiple perspectives will allow students to examine the effects of globalization on peoples in Canada and other locations, including the impact on Aboriginal and Francophone communities.
Social Studies 20‐1/20‐1F “Perspectives on Nationalism”
(5 credits)
Students will explore the complexities of nationalism in Canadian and international contexts. Students will study the origins and impacts of nationalism and the influence of nationalism on regional, international and global relations. The infusion of a multiple perspectives approach will allow students to develop understandings of nationalism and of how nationalism contributes to the citizenship and identities of people in Canada. Students will develop personal and civic responses to emergent issues related to nationalism.
Social Studies 20‐2 “Nationalism in Canada and the World”
(5 credits)
Students will examine various forms of nationalism on historical and contemporary events. Students will explore the impacts of nationalism and efforts to promote internationalism. Examples will be drawn from the study of the French Revolution, the world wars, Aboriginal experiences, Quebecois nationalism, Canadian nationalism, international institutions and current events.
Social Studies 30‐1/30‐1F “Perspectives on Ideology”
(5 credits)
Students will explore the origins and complexities of ideologies and examine perspectives regarding the principles of classical and modern liberalism. An analysis of various political and economic systems will allow students to assess the viability of the principles of liberalism. Developing understandings of the roles and responsibilities associated with citizenship will encourage students to respond to emergent global issues.
Social Studies 30‐2/30‐2F “Understandings of Ideologies"
(5 credits)
Students will examine the origins, values and components of competing ideologies. They will explore multiple perspectives regarding relationship among individualism, liberalism, common good and collectivism. An examination of various political and economic systems will allow students to determine the viability of the values of liberalism. Developing understandings of the roles and responsibilities associated with citizenship will encourage students to respond to emergent global issues.
