W.H. Croxford High School
Social Studies 30-1 – Perspectives on Ideology
Mrs. R. Harrowing
Rm. 2001
[email protected]
Program Rationale for Social Studies
Social studies provides 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 helps
students develop their sense of self and community, encouraging them to affirm a place as citizens in an
inclusive, democratic society
Overview of Social 30-1
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.
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.
Related Issues for Social 30-1
To what extent should ideology be the foundation of identity?
Students will explore the relationship between identity and ideology.
To what extent is resistance to liberalism justified?
Students will assess impacts of, and reactions to, principles of liberalism.
To what extent are the principles of liberalism viable?
Students will assess the extent to which the principles of liberalism are viable in a contemporary world.
To what extent should my actions as a citizen be shaped by an ideology?
Students will assess their rights, roles and responsibilities as citizens.
The above themes will be explored through an historical exploration of key figures and events in the evolution
of social, political, and economic liberalism – including its origins, evolution, and the various responses to it.
Course content includes events from the 1700’s Enlightenment Period through to studies of modern day
contemporary global events.
Primary Classroom Resource
Fielding, Christison, Meston, Smith, Zook, Perspectives on Ideology, Oxford Canada Press, 2009.
Evaluation
Your final grade in Social Studies 30-1 will be calculated as follows:
Course Grade: 70% - calculated as follows: Minor Evaluations
Major Evaluations
Essays/ Writing
Unit Exams
10%
30%
30%
30%
Diploma Exam: 30% - Part A (Source Analysis + Position Paper + M/C Exam)
DIPLOMA EXAM
All formal written assignments and unit tests will be modeled after the formats used in the Social Studies 30-1
Diploma Exam. More information on the exam can be found at:
http://education.alberta.ca/admin/testing/diplomaexams/exambulletins.aspx
ASSIGNMENTS
It is expected that assignments will be handed in at the beginning of class on the day they are due.
Submitting an assignment late will negatively impact the student’s understanding of the course material and
thus their achievement in the course.
If, after giving their best efforts, students are still having difficulty with an assignment or the class in general,
any difficulties should be noted and the teacher seen. It is also possible to gain extra assistance via Flex blocks
and tutorials.
ATTENDANCE, LATES, AND PREPAREDNESS
It is vital at the 30-1 level to attend regularly, and when absences occur, to keep up with any material or
assignments missed in class. Any extended absences should be discussed with the teacher as far in advance
as possible.
Be in class on time. Have your materials with you (POD, paper, pencil/pen). Be positive and respectful to
others.
TEST POLICY
All tests are the property of the W.H. Croxford Social Studies Department for the purpose of evaluation and
will be kept by the teacher. Students wishing to review a test may do so during Flex with supervision. Prior
notice will be given for unit exams. Any test missed will be made up immediately upon return to school.
APPEALS
Appeal of Term Mark: Any mark may be appealed within 7 days. Normally, it is discussed with a teacher or
counselor before referral to administration. See the Student Handbook.
Appeal of Final Mark: Please see the procedure listed in the Student Handbook.
CONTROVERSIAL MATERIAL
Controversial issues are those topics that are publicly sensitive and upon which there is no consensus of
values or beliefs. They include topics on which reasonable people may sincerely disagree. Opportunities to
deal with these issues are an integral part of social studies education in Alberta.
Studying controversial issues is important in preparing students to participate responsibly in a democratic
and pluralistic society. Such study provides opportunities to develop the ability to think clearly, to reason
logically, to open-mindedly and respectfully examine different points of view and to make sound judgments.