Social Studies 30-2 SyllabusMs. M.S.Peters ()

Course Description:

In Social Studies 30-2, students will explore the origins and complexities of ideologiesand examine multiple perspectives regarding the principles of classical and modern liberalism. We will study and analyze a variety of political and economic systems and have the students assess the viability of the principles of liberalism. Liberalism is highlighted as it has played a significant role in the development of modern democratic societies. Ultimately, we want our students to answer the fundamental question, “To what extent should we embrace an ideology?” To do so we have divided the course into four issue-based units:

Related Issue #1: Should ideology be the foundation of identity?

  • Explore factors that may influence individual and collective beliefs and values (culture, language, etc)
  • Examine historic and contemporary expressions of individualism and collectivism
  • Examine the characteristics of an ideology
  • Explore themes of ideologies (nations, class, environment, religion, etc)
  • Analyze individualism and collectivism as a foundation of identity
  • Analyze the dynamic of individualism and common good in contemporary societies
  • Evaluate the extent to which personal identity should be shaped by ideologies

Related Issue #2: Is resistance to liberalism justified?

  • Explore Aboriginal contributions to the development of liberalism
  • Examine the relationship between the principles of liberalism and the origins of classical liberal thought (Locke, Hobbes, Smith, JS Mill, etc)
  • Examine ideologies that developed in response to liberalism (Socialism, Marxism, etc)
  • Analyze the growth of modern liberalism
  • Analyze ideological systems that rejected liberalism (Communism, Fascism)
  • Examine how ideological conflict shaped international relations after WWII
  • Analyze the extent to which modern liberalism is challenged by alternative thought
  • Evaluate the extent to which resistance to liberalism is justified

Related Issue #3: Are the Values of liberalism viable?

Students will:

  • Explore the extent to which governments should reflect the will of the people
  • Explore the extent to which governments should encourage economic equality
  • Examinethe extent to which the values of political and economic systems reflect the principles of liberalism
  • Analyze the extent to which liberal democracies reflect illiberal thought and practices
  • Examine why the practices of governments may not reflect the values of liberalism
  • Explore the extent to which governments should promote individual and collective rights
  • Evaluate if the values of liberalism are viable in modern society

Related Issue #4:Should my actions as a citizen be shaped by an ideology?

Students will:

  • Explore how ideologies shape individual and collective citizenship
  • Examine perspectives on the rights, roles and responsibilities of citizens during times of conflict
  • Analyze the extent to which ideology should shape responses to contemporary issues
  • Develop strategies to address local, national and global issues
  • Explore opportunities to demonstrate active and responsible citizenship

In studying each related issue students will be expected to:

  • Complete writing assignments(i.e. Responses to differing Sources and Perspectives)
  • Complete performance tasks and daily assignments
  • Write a Multiple Choice Exam

Evaluation Scheme:

Teacher Assigned Mark (50% of course mark)

Related Issue #120%

Related Issue #230%

Related Issue #330%

Related Issue #420%

FinalExam (50% of course mark)

Part A (source based)20%

Part B (Written Response) 30%

Part C (multiple choices)50%

How to Succeed:

  • Attend class regularly and be punctual
  • Produce work that you are proud of
  • Be an active participant in class
  • Become an informed citizen by being knowledgeable of current affairs

Welcome Back!