Social Studies provide opportunities for students to develop the attitudes, skills and knowledge that will enable them to become engaged, active, informed and responsible citizens. Recognition and respect for individual and collective identity is essential in a pluralistic and democratic society. Social studies help students develop their sense of self and community, encouraging them to affirm their place as citizens in an inclusive, democratic society.
The program emphasizes the importance of diversity and respect for differences as well as the need for social cohesion and the effective functioning of society. It promotes a sense of belonging and acceptance in students as they engage in active and responsible citizenship at the local, community, provincial, national and global level.
In order to receive an Alberta High School Diploma, students must complete either a Social 30-1 or Social 30-2.
Courses
10/20 = 6 credits
30 = 5 credits
This stream of courses is intended to provide a conceptual framework for all learners to enhance understanding of the diverse Aboriginal cultures within their region, Canada and the world.
Students will have the opportunity to earn six credits as they complete Aboriginal Studies 10/20 in a single semester. Upon successful completion of Aboriginal Studies 10/20, students may enroll in Aboriginal Studies 30. Aboriginal Studies 30 may also be used as a prerequisite for post-secondary studies.
5 credits
This stream of social studies is designed for students who do not plan on using social studies as a prerequisite for post-secondary studies. As many post-secondary programs do not require social studies, this stream can be appealing.
The course is designed to focus on critical thinking skills while developing an understanding of the social world. The structure and content of these courses are organized in such a way as to allow additional time in class to complete assessments.
5 credits
The dash-1 stream is for students who plan on using social studies as a prerequisite for post-secondary studies.
The course is designed to focus on critical thinking skills while developing an understanding of the social world.
The structure and content of these courses comes with the expectation that students will be working outside of class time to complete assessments.
10AP = 3 credits
20AP/European History = 8 credits
If you plan to use social studies as a prerequisite for post-secondary studies, the AP route is one to consider. Social Studies 10-1 AP is an accelerated version of Social Studies 10-1 where students address the same topics covered in 10-1 with additional historical and contemporary case studies.
Social Studies 20-1 AP/European History is an 8-credit course open to students who have successfully completed either Social 10-1 or Social 10-1 AP. This full year course is organized into a 5-credit section in semester one and a 3-credit section in semester two.
Students who complete 20-1 AP/European History will also have the opportunity to write the Advanced Placement European History Exam in May of their Grade 11 year. Their exam score is kept separate from their in-class mark and may be used for post-secondary credit.
Students who complete 20-1 AP/European History will then enroll in Social 30-1 to complete their graduation requirements.