Social Studies

Social Studies provide 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 help students develop their sense of self and community, encouraging them to affirm their place as citizens in an inclusive, democratic society.

The program emphasizes the importance of diversity and respect for differences as well as the need for social cohesion and the effective functioning of society. It promotes a sense of belonging and acceptance in students as they engage in active and responsible citizenship at the local, community, provincial, national and global level.

In order to receive an Alberta High School Diploma, students must complete either a Social 30-1 or Social 30-2.

Aboriginal Studies 10, 20, 30

Aboriginal Studies in Grade 10 can set you up to take Aboriginal  Studies 30, which is accepted as an academic subject by post-secondary schools to applicable programs such as General Arts, Business, Sciences, Nursing, Education, Agriculture and Environment programs.

The course is based on Aboriginal perspectives and worldviews. It includes the study of Aboriginal traditions and history in Canada, 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 Worldviews
  • Political and Economic Organization
  • Aboriginal Symbolism and Expression.

Social Studies 10-2, 20-2, 30-2

5 credits

This stream of social studies is designed for students who do not plan on using social studies as a prerequisite for post-secondary studies. As many post-secondary programs do not require social studies, this stream can be appealing.

The course is designed to focus on critical thinking skills while developing an understanding of the social world. The structure and content of these courses are organized in such a way as to allow additional time in class to complete assessments.

Social 10-2: students explore the history of globalization and its effects on land, culture, human rights and quality of life. 

Social 20-2: examines historical and contemporary understandings of nationalism in Canada and the world.

Social 30-2: examines the origins, values and components of competing ideologies.

Successful completion of this program provides access to most certificate/diploma programs in colleges and technical institutions.

Social Studies 10-1, 20-1, 30-1

5 credits

The dash-1 stream is for students who plan on using social studies as a prerequisite for post-secondary studies.

The course is designed to focus on critical thinking skills while developing an understanding of the social world. The structure and content of these courses come with the expectation that students will be working outside of class time to complete assessments.

Social 10-1: explores the origins of globalization and its impact, locally, nationally and internationally, on culture, economies, human rights and quality of life.

Social 20-1: students will explore the complexities of nationalism in Canadian and international contexts.

Social 30-1: explores the origins and complexities of ideologies and examine multiple perspectives regarding the principles of classical and modern liberalism.