Social Studies

Grade 4 Curriculum

What is Alberta like and how did Alberta become what it is now? By examining the many aspects of Alberta—such as geography, history and culture—grade 4 students will develop a stronger sense of people’s identity as Albertans and a better understanding of our province’s diversity.

Alberta: A Sense of the Land (September to December)

Students will demonstrate an understanding and appreciation of how elements of physical geography, climate, geology and paleontology are integral to the landscapes and environment of Alberta.

Values & Attitudes Outcomes

  • Students will value Alberta’s physical geography and natural environment:

    • Students will:

      • appreciate the diversity of elements pertaining to geography, climate, geology and paleontology in Alberta

      • appreciate how Alberta’s fossil heritage contributes to the province’s unique character

      • appreciate the variety and abundance of natural resources in Alberta

      • appreciate the environmental significance of national and provincial parks and protected areas in Alberta

      • appreciate how land sustains communities and quality of life

      • demonstrate care and concern for the environment through their choices and actions

Knowledge & Understanding

  • Students will examine, critically, the physical geography of Alberta by exploring and reflecting upon the following questions and issues.

    • Students will explore the following questions:

      • Where is Alberta located in relation to the other provinces and territories of Canada?

      • What are the major geographical and natural vegetation regions, landforms and bodies of water in Alberta (e.g., prairie region, forests, rivers, hoodoos, Rocky Mountains, oil sands)?

      • What are the factors that determine climate in the diverse regions of Alberta (e.g., latitude, mountains)?

      • What are the significant natural resources in Alberta, and where are they located (e.g., mineral deposits, coal, natural gas and oil, forests)?

      • How are Alberta’s provincial parks and protected areas and the national parks in Alberta important to the sustainability of Alberta’s natural environment?