Social Studies draws upon history, geography, ecology, economics, law, philosophy, political science and other social science disciplines. The Social Studies curriculum provides opportunities for students to develop the attitudes, skills and knowledge that will enable them to become engaged, active, informed and responsible citizens. It focuses on the concepts of citizenship and identity in the Canadian context. The program reflects multiple perspectives, including Aboriginal and Francophone that contribute to Canada’s evolving realities. 

Webster's dictionary defines social studies as a "general term embracing the teaching of economics, sociology, anthropology and politics. The aims of social studies teaching is to encourage children's knowledge of current affairs and their understanding of social and political concepts."

Alberta Education requires all students to take social studies at each grade level, eventually culminating with either the Social Studies 30-1 or Social Studies 30-2 course. 

Psychology 20 - General and Personal Psychology

This course provides an introduction to a wide range of topics in psychology. Examination of the foundation of psychological thought and theories of personality provide a backdrop for understanding current psychological approaches. Personality theories, methods of research, perception, and cognitive and personal development will be some of the topics covered . Abnormal psychology including studies of neurosis, psychosis, personality disturbances and defense mechanisms will also be examined. Students receive credits for General Psychology (3 credits) and Personal Psychology (3 credits) .

Psychology/Sociology 30

Experimental psychology provides an overview of the scientific experimentation process in the field of psychology. Modules examine scientific research methods, data display and interpretation, research ethics, and the design and completion of a psychological research experiment. On completing the course, students will have a basic understanding of the major concepts in experimental psychology and the complex nature of scientific research. Experimental Psychology (3 credits) Sociology is the study of social behavior and human groups. The goal of the course is to help students understand how they are part of society, to understand society’s influence on their lives and to visualize their roles in societal change. Content includes scientific methods of study, social institutions, elements of culture and subculture, race and ethnic relations, minority groups, public opinion, mass communication and propaganda, social control and deviation, crime and delinquency, and dating and marriage.) Applied Sociology (3 credits)

Aboriginal Studies 10

The course is based on perspectives and world views of Aboriginal peoples . It includes the study of traditions and history of Aboriginal peoples in Canada, and particularly in Alberta . Student learning outcomes provide opportunities to examine such topics as governmental structures, literature, the arts and the sciences .

  • The four themes in Aboriginal Studies 10 are:
  • Origin and Settlement Patterns
  • Aboriginal World Views
  • Political and Economic Organization Aboriginal Symbolism and Expression

Aboriginal Studies 20

The course focuses on indigenous people from a Canadian and Alberta perspective . It includes the study of policies, legislation, conflict and cultural change .

The four themes in Aboriginal Studies 20 are:

  • The Métis: Conflict and Cultural Change
  • Treaties and Cultural Change
  •  Legislation, Policies and Cultural Change 
  • Schooling and Cultural Change

Aboriginal Studies 30

Students will gain a greater understanding of the current issues facing Aboriginal peoples worldwide. Aboriginal Studies 30 enables students to demonstrate an understanding of the issues of Aboriginal rights and self-government, Aboriginal land claims, Aboriginal peoples in Canadian society and Aboriginal world issues . 

The four themes in Aboriginal Studies 30 are:

  • Aboriginal Rights and Self-government
  • Aboriginal Land Claims
  • Aboriginal Peoples in Canadian Society
  • Aboriginal World Issues