| Social Studies |
Program Connections
The different sections of this resource may address the following outcomes from the Alberta Social Studies Program of Studies:
Front Matter:
Values and Attitudes
Social studies provides learning opportunities for students to:
- value the diversity, respect the dignity and support the equality of all human beings (Bullet 1)
- honour and value the traditions, concepts and symbols that are the expression of Canadian identity (Bullet 4)
- thrive in their evolving identity with a legitimate sense of belonging to their communities, Canada and the world (Bullet 5)
- demonstrate a global consciousness with respect to humanity and world issues (Bullet 6)
Pluralism: Diversity and Cohesion
One of the goals of the social studies program is to foster understanding of the roles and contributions of linguistic, cultural and ethnic groups in Canada. Students will learn about themselves in relation to others. Social studies helps students to function as citizens in a society that values diversity and cohesion.
A key component of effective social organizations, communities and institutions is recognition of diversity of experiences and perspectives. The program of studies emphasizes how diversity and differences are assets that enrich our lives. Students will have opportunities to value diversity, to recognize differences as positive attributes and to recognize the evolving nature of individual identities. Race, socio-economic conditions and gender are among various forms of identification that people live with and experience in a variety of ways.
Social studies addresses diversity and social cohesion and provides processes that students can use to work out differences, drawing on the strengths of diversity. These processes include:
- a commitment to respecting differences and fostering inclusiveness
- an understanding and appreciation for shared values
- a respect for democratic principles and processes for decision making such as dialogue and deliberation.
Diversity contributes to the development of a vibrant democratic society. Through the interactions of place and historical processes of change, diversity has been an important asset in the evolution of Canadian society. Some key manifestations of this diversity include:
- First Nations, Inuit and Métis cultures
- official bilingualism
- immigration
- multiculturalism.
Accommodation of diversity is essential for fostering social cohesion in a pluralistic society. Social cohesion is a process that requires the development of the relationships within and among communities. Social cohesion is manifested by respect for:
- individual and collective rights
- civic responsibilities
- shared values
- democracy
- rule of law
- diversity.
20-1 and 20-2 Outcomes
General Outcome 1: Students Will Explore The Relationships Among Identity, Nation & Nationalism.
Key Issue: To what extent should we embrace nationalism?
Related Issue 1: To what extent should nation be the foundation of identity?
Specific Outcomes: Values and Attitudes
Students will:
1.1 appreciate that understandings of identity, nation and nationalism continue to evolve
1.2 appreciate the existence of alternative views on the meaning of nation
1.3 appreciate how the forces of nationalism have shaped, and continue to shape, Canada and the world
Specific Outcomes: Knowledge and Understanding
Students will:
1.6 develop understandings of nation and nationalism (relationship to land, geographic, collective, civic, ethnic, cultural, linguistic, political, spiritual, religious, patriotic)
General Outcome 3: Students Will Assess Impacts Of The Pursuit Of Internationalism In Contemporary Global Affairs.
Key Issue: To what extent should we embrace nationalism?
Related Issue 3: To what extent should internationalism be pursued?Specific Outcomes: Values and Attitudes
Students will: 3.3 demonstrate a global consciousness with respect to the human condition and global affairs
General Outcome 4: Students Will Assess Strategies For Negotiating The Complexities Of Nationalism Within The Canadian Context.
Key Issue: To what extent should we embrace nationalism?
Related Issue 4: To what extent should individuals and groups in Canada embrace a national identity?Specific Outcomes: Knowledge and Understanding
Students will:
4.9 develop personal and collective visions of national identity
30-1 and 30-2 Outcomes
General Outcome 1: Students Will Explore The Relationship Between Identity & Ideology.
Key Issue: To what extent should we embrace an ideology?
Related Issue 1: To what extent should ideology be the foundation of identity?Specific Outcomes: Knowledge and Understanding
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)
1.5 examine the characteristics of ideology (interpretations of history, beliefs about human nature, beliefs about the structure of society, visions for the future)
