Social Studies

"Social Studies is among the most interesting courses, at least in my opinion. History, politics, economics, and current events are all vitally important in helping someone understand the world better. You get to create your own views on these things, or build upon your preexisting opinions through learning critical thinking and argumentative skills. Through class discussions and debate, you're able to hear many different perspectives, which can change what you believe, or just inform you on how those that don't agree with you think about the world. It's an easy class to be involved in, since the subject matter naturally makes you think, and there are endless fascinating and extremely relevant topics. Politics and economics affect everyone's life through the policy of our leaders, large current events always find a way into peoples lives, and history informs and influences everything about the modern world and why things are the way they are. It's easy to take the society you live in to be the norm, but in reality, it is constantly being guided by these factors."

Our Approach to Learning

Social Studies explores how people are connected to each other and the world. By studying past and present issues, you will learn about diversity and respecting and understanding multiple perspectives. The goal is to help you become an engaged and responsible citizen within your local and global communities.

Courses Offered

Students explore the meaning and effects of globalization, nationalism and ideologies.

Social Studies 10-1, 20-1 and 30-1 emphasizes complex concept development, critical thinking, and skill development.
Social Studies 10-1 AP, 20-1 AP, and 30-1 AP (Modern World History) extends the content of the -1 sequence with additional learning in preparation for the Advanced Placement exam and recognition as an introductory university-level course.
Social Studies 10-2, 20-2, and 30-2 places a greater degree of emphasis on personal connection to the topics studied.
Social Studies 10-EAL combines two courses to provide specialized learning and increased instructional time for English Language Learners. Students may earn 5-credits in Introduction to Canadian Studies and 5-credits in Social Studies 10-2.

To earn an Alberta High School Diploma, students must complete either Social Studies 30-1, Social Studies 30-1 AP, or Social Studies 30-2.

Aboriginal Studies

Aboriginal Studies is intended to provide a conceptual framework for all learners to enhance understanding of the diverse Indigenous cultures and themes within their region, Canada and the world. The course is based on perspectives and worldviews of Indigenous people. Aboriginal Studies reflects a perspective that encompasses and integrates the past, present, and future of Indigenous peoples. This program will provide all students with the opportunity to develop, explore, and apply their own personal reflections on Indigenous perspectives.

Students increase their knowledge about First Nations, Métis, and Inuit perspectives and experiences.

In Grade 10, students complete Aboriginal Studies 10 for 5 credits.
In Grade 11, students complete Aboriginal Studies 20 for 5 credits.
In Grade 12, students complete Aboriginal Studies 30, a 5 credit course which may be used for post-secondary entrance and scholarships.

Students may use Aboriginal Studies to contribute to the 100 credits required for an Alberta High School Diploma.

AP Modern World History

Students explore history on a global scale throughout this AP course. Through inquiry based learning and project based assessments, students will learn about the world from 1200 all the way to the modern era, while analyzing primary and secondary sources, engaging in rigorous debate, and developing research skills.

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Learning Connections

The Social Studies team at DAAHS offers a rigorous program that guides students through project-based opportunities to demonstrate learning and growth.

Students can look forward to guided debate, interesting and relevant content related to current events, and opportunities to solve essential questions pertaining to Globalization, Nationalism, and Ideologies as directed by the program of studies. Independent and group work are equally encouraged to maximize student experience and opportunities for learning.

The Social Studies team leverages the unique school spaces to enhance instruction, including the Agora, the mixer staircases, and our beautiful Learning Commons.

Teachers of Social Studies also facilitate the High School Model UN (HSMUN) and provide support for students interested in international relations, research, debate, public speaking, and writing. As we grow as a school, we will build our peer-mentoring in this exciting club! The HSMUN also offers students an opportunity to experience the University of Alberta campus, and make connections to students for mentoring and transitioning to post-secondary.

Also available to students is the fast-paced Debate club, participating in debates with other high schools in the Edmonton region.

The end of the semester for Social Studies culminates in a final assessment that provides students maximum opportunity to showcase their learning. The culminating assessment for each level is as unique as the teachers who present them, and students are offered a choice of format for most classes.

Career Pathways

The Social Studies programs focus on skill building in speech, writing, interpretation, analysis, and research. With support, students find success in these skills as related to our past, present, and future. After completing rigorous activities in debate, current events, and historic awareness, students may seek careers in civic engagement that they find both interesting and rewarding, such as municipal, provincial, or federal public service positions. The Social Studies program also offers a look into careers that build and promote Indigenous rights and relations, broader activism, and humanitarian work around the globe. Success in skills related to source analysis or building/presenting strong evidence in debate, students may seek careers in law, economics, policy making, urban planning, research, media, or philosophy.

Meet the Social Studies Team!

Mr. Macgregor's interests include playing and watching sports, as well as playing games with his family.

Mr. Minhas’ favourite place to visit in Europe is the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam, and he also has a 29 year old pet frog!

Mr. Richards knows the capital city of every country. Seriously, try him!

Ms. Norton has played on the Canadian national ultimate frisbee team and played in countries like Australia and Argentina.

Mr. Stoesz loves to spend time with his family, cheer for the Oilers, and watch nerdy movies.

Mr. Greer's interests include playing and watching all sports, reading, coffee, and vinyl music.

Love to play sports, especially golf, and would love to talk about politics!

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