Social Studies 8

Students will use geography skills and historical analysis to understand the development of world civilizations.Students will examine factors that have shaped modern society and make connections between the past and the present.

Socials Studies 9

Individuals and Societies 9 builds on themes developed in Individuals and Societies 8. Starting by looking atCanadian foundations in Europe, students will study the building of Canada as a nation through to Confederation. Students will analyze Canadian history through both the European and First Nations lens. Geographic knowledge and skills previously acquired are reinforced and expanded through a study of Canada’s present economy.

Social Studies 10 

Individuals and Societies 10 deals with fundamentally important topics and issues that are basic to citizenship in Canada and the world. Students will examine the historical background and structure of our federal,provincial, and municipal governments. Another aspect of Individuals and Societies 10 is an in-depth study of current global issues such as population explosion, the food crisis, resource allocation and Third World development. Equally relevant is a thorough study of Canada’s development as an independent nation and its role in the world community during the twentieth century. Highlights of this section of the course are World War I, the Depression, World War II, peacekeeping, and the socioeconomic growth of the nation.

20th Century World History 12 

This course examines the history of world affairs in the 20th century, concentrating on the time period between 1919 and the present day. There is an emphasis on the West and its relation to world affairs. Included are the effects of the world wars, the decline of European power, the polarization of the Cold War,the end of colonial empires, and the emergence of a new modern era, including an emphasis on human rights. Students should be aware that critical thinking, analysis of historical information and essay writing are important parts of the course.

Asian Studies 12

The course will examine political, social, economic and environmental issues in various parts of Asia from 1850 to present. Students will study the diversity of these regions including how the nations of Asia evolved into their present states and how people currently live in this part of the world. They will learn about modern day geographical and economic trends such as urbanization, standard of living, globalization, migration within and away from Asia, and how these factors contribute to growth, poverty, and inequality. Regional and global conflict and cooperation, and social and political movements, including human rights initiatives willbe explored. Asian Studies will expose students to different viewpoints and perspectives that are underrepresented within the greater Canadian and Western historical and modern day narrative as well as Canada's historical and current connections to the continent.

BC First Peoples 12

The course focuses on the diversity and depth of the cultures of British Columbia’s First Nations.   In emphasizing the languages, cultures, and history of First Nations peoples, the course addresses an important part of the history of British Columbia. Designed to introduce authentic Aboriginal content into the senior secondary curriculum, the course provides an opportunity for BC students to acquire knowledge and understanding of the traditions, history, and present realities of BC Aboriginal peoples, as well as a chance to consider future challenges and opportunities. The course incorporates an important balance of expository and experiential learning. BC First Nations Studies addresses the richness and diversity of First Nations languages and cultures by exploring them within their own unique contexts. It is intended to provide a conceptual foundation for all learners to develop an appreciation and respect for similarities among and differences between the diverse cultures of the world.  This course meets the new graduation requirement to have 4 credits in an Indigenous Focused course, and the Social Studies 11 or Grade 12 elective requirement for the Graduation program for all students graduating in B.C. after September 2023. 

Geography (Human & Physical) 12

Geography is the study of the physical, natural and human elements of the global environment. The course examines many of the characteristics, processes, distributions and interactions among the physical components of the Earth’s surface. Studies include natural disasters, plate tectonics, climate, weather, demography, human and environment interactions, resources as well as the impact of climate change, global political and economic inequalities that continue to cause issues within the planet. The course will also allow for an in-depth study on sustainability. Course work will include mapping skills, air photo interpretation and labs, presentations, and a week-long field trip to the Rocky Mountains or California. 

Law Studies 12

Do you want to understand how the legal system works so you can make your life better? Do you have a passion for doing the right thing and thinking deeply about big questions and even bigger ideas? If so, then this is the course for you! This course is designed to give students an understanding of Canada’s legal system. The topics covered include criminal law, civil law (including torts), family law, contracts, the structure of Canada’s court system, and the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Current legal issues are also discussed in class. The course will include mock trials and may also include guest speakers and visits to the criminal courts. Prepare to write, prepare to read, and prepare to think – but rest assured, the work will be well worth it in the end.

Social Justice 12

The aim of Social Justice is to raise students’ awareness of social injustice, to enable them to analyze situations from a social justice perspective, and to provide them with the knowledge, skills, and an ethical framework to advocate for a socially just world. Past and present social injustices in Canada and the world are analyzed, looking at the lasting impacts. Students will also study how governmental and non-governmental organizations shape society. Topics include: environmental justice, poverty, homelessness, racism, gender, LGBTQ, human rights, First Nations, genocide, and globalization.