Emily Kenney, Adam Gibson, Sydney MacRae and Jazmin Roe

Social Studies Education Overview

Program National and Philosophy:
Social studies is meant to help students become active, engaged and informed citizens by
developing the students sense of self. They will be able to recognize the differences and
similarities between individual and collective identities in a multicultural and democratic society.
Students will learn about Canadas history and identity, both before and after confederation,
reflecting the many ideologies and cultures that come together to make up the nation. They will
learn the importance of a pluralistic view that recognizes that citizenship and identity are shaped
by multiple factors such as language, religion, gender, and culture (Social Studies Program of
Study, 1).
Definition of Social Studies:
Develops the key values, attitudes, knowledge, understanding, and skills for students to become
actively engaged members of society. It will help them become involved in the democratic
process and become aware of their ability to affect change in their communities, both near home
and afar (1).
Program vision:
The Alberta Social Studies Kindergarten to Grade 12 Program of Studies meets the needs and
reflects the nature of 21st century learners. It reflects multiple perspectives, including Aboriginal
and Francophone, that contribute to Canadas evolving realities. The program emphasizes the
importance of diversity and respect for these differences. It promotes a sense of belonging and
acceptance in students as they become more active in their communities and the local, provincial,
national, and global levels (1).
Values and Attitudes
Social studies provides learning opportunities for students to be able to values diversity, respect
the dignity, and support equality for all human beings. They will be able to demonstrate social
compassion, fairness, and justice. They will be able to honour and value the traditions, concepts,
and symbols that are at the centre of Canadian identity (2).
Knowledge and Understanding
Social studies provides learning opportunities for students to understand their rights and
responsibilities. The history of Alberta, Canada, and the world contributes to understanding of
contemporary issues. They will explore these topics from multiple perspectives, such as First
Nations, Francophones, and newcomers (2).
The Six Strands of Social Studies:
The six strands of social studies reflect the interdisciplinary nature of social studies. The strands
are interrelated and constitute the basis for the learning outcomes in the program of studies. They
are: 1)Time, Continuity and Change 2) The Land: Places and People 3) Power, Authority and
Decision Making 4) Economics and Resources 5) Global Connections 6) Culture and
Community (6-7).
GLOS and SLOS for the Alberta Social Studies Curriculum:

Emily Kenney, Adam Gibson, Sydney MacRae and Jazmin Roe

K-3: Grade Three: Connecting to the World

-General Outcome 3.1 Communities in the World: Students will demonstrate an understanding
and appreciation of how geographic, social, cultural and linguistic factors affect quality of life in
communities in India, Tunisia, Ukraine and Peru. (35)
-Students will: 3.1.1 appreciate similarities and differences among people and
communities (37).
-Students will: 3.1.2 examine the social, cultural and linguistic characteristics that affect
quality of life in communities in other parts of the world(37).
-Students will: 3.S.1 develop skills of critical thinking and creative thinking (40).
4-6: Grade 6: Democracy: Action and Participation
-General Outcome 6.1 Citizens Participating in Decision Making: Students will demonstrate an
understanding and appreciation of the dynamic relationship between governments and citizens as
they engage in the democratic process. (13)
-Students will: 6.1.1 recognize how individuals and governments interact and bring about
change within their local and national communities. (15)
-Students will: 6.1.2 demonstrate an understanding of the fundamental principles of
democracy by exploring and reflecting upon the following questions and issues. (15)
-Students will: 6.S.4. demonstrate skills of decision making and problem solving. (18)
7-9: Grade 9: Canada: Opportunities and Challenges
-General Outcome 9.1 Issues for Canadians: Governance and Rights. Students will demonstrate
an understanding and appreciation of how Canadas political processes impact citizenship and
identity in an attempt to meet the needs of all Canadians.(13)
-Students will: 9.1.1 appreciate the impact of the Canadian Charter of Rights and
Freedoms on rights and governance in Canada (15).
-9.1.6 assess, critically, the impact of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms on
the legislative process in Canada (15).
-Students will: 9.S.5 demonstrate skills of cooperation, conflict resolution and consensus
building (20).
10-12: Grade 12 (30-1): Perspectives on Ideology
-General Outcomes Students will explore the relationship between identity and ideology. (13)
-Students will: 1.1 appreciate various perspectives regarding identity and ideology (20).
- Students will: 1.3 explore factors that may influence individual and collective beliefs
and values (culture, language, media, relationship to land, environment, gender, religion,
spirituality, ideology) (20).
-Students will: S.7 apply the research process (18).