This course enables students to develop an understanding of the theoretical, social, and historical underpinnings of various equity and social justice issues and to analyse strategies for bringing about positive social change. Students will learn about historical and contemporary equity and social justice issues in Canada and globally. They will explore power relations and the impact of a variety of factors on equity and social justice. Students will develop and apply research skills and will design and implement a social action initiative relating to an equity or social justice issue.
Topics and Expectations:
A. RESEARCH AND INQUIRY SKILLS
A1. Exploring: explore topics related to the analysis of social change, and formulate questions to guide their research;
A2. Investigating: create research plans, and locate and select information relevant to their chosen topics, using appropriate social science research and inquiry methods;
A3. Processing Information: assess, record, analyse, and synthesize information gathered through research and inquiry;
A4. Communicating and Reflecting: communicate the results of their research and inquiry clearly and effectively, and reflect on and evaluate their research, inquiry, and communication skills.
B. SOCIAL CHANGE
B1. Foundations for the Study of Social Change: demonstrate an understanding of the major theories, perspectives, and methodologies related to social change;
B2. Causes and Effects of Social Change: demonstrate an understanding of the causes and effects of social change;
B3. Technological Change: demonstrate an understanding of patterns and effects of technological change from a social science perspective.
C. SOCIAL PATTERNS AND TRENDS
C1. Demographics: demonstrate an understanding of the importance of demographics as a tool for studying social patterns and trends, both nationally and globally;
C2. Forces That Shape Social Trends: demonstrate an understanding of how forces influence and shape social patterns and trends;
C3. Social Deviance: demonstrate an understanding of social science theories about social deviance, and of how various responses to deviance affect individuals and society.
D. GLOBAL SOCIAL CHALLENGES
D1. Global Inequalities: demonstrate an understanding of how various social structures and conditions support or limit global inequalities;
D2. Globalization: assess the impact of globalization on individuals and groups;
D3. Exploitation: analyse the impact of unfair or unjust exploitation of people or resources, locally and globally.
Curriculum
