Northstar Academy

Course Description Document

Course name and abbreviation:

Social Studies 30-1; SS30a

Grade Level: 

Grade 12

Summary of course content and activities:

Students will explore the origins and complexities of ideologies and examine multiple 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.

Who should be taking this course? For whom is this course designed and intended?      

This course is designed for students in grade 12 who have a goal of achieving an advanced diploma.

Philosophy statement for and/or behind teaching this course:

The principles of liberalism have played a significant role in the development of modern democratic societies. Developing a comprehensive understanding of the evolution of modern liberal thought and the tenets of competing ideologies is important in the development of active, informed and responsible citizens. This understanding will enable students to effectively investigate, analyze and evaluate government policies and actions and develop individual and collective responses to contemporary local, national and global issues.

Major course goals:    

·        Students will explore the relationship between identity and ideology.

·        Students will assess impacts of, and reactions to, principles of liberalism.

·        Students will assess the extent to which the principles of liberalism are viable in a contemporary world.

·        Students will assess their rights, roles and responsibilities as citizens. 

Pre-requisite(s):  

Social Studies 20-1

Number of credits that this course is worth:   

5

Materials and resources provided by NSA, purchased by student, and/or recommended:

Provided by NSA:

Perspectives on Ideology

Purchased by student:

Bible

Recommended but not required:

World Atlas

Canadian Atlas

Forecasted amount of time required to complete each week's lesson:

7-8 hours

Description of student evaluations, quizzes, and tests:

Evaluation will be based mainly on assignments which will be handed in weekly. Regular tests will be done in practice for the diploma exam, but will not be part of the course grade.

Provincial Final Exam Mark (50% of the final mark)

NorthStar Academy Canada
#107, 1001 - 20th Avenue, Didsbury, AB
Email: cdninfo@nsaschool.ca
1-403-335-9587
1-877-335-1171 (toll free)
1-403-335-9513 (fax)