Social Studies

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. 

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 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-ELL and 20-ELL combines two courses to provide specialized learning and increased instructional time for English Language Learners. At each grade level, students may earn 5-credits in Introduction to Canadian Studies and 5-credits in Social Studies 10-2 or 20-2.

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 will complete Aboriginal Studies 10 for 3 credits and Braided Journeys 15 for a total of 6 credits.

• In Grade 11, students will complete Aboriginal Studies 20 for 3 credits and Braided Journeys 25 for a total of 6 credits.

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

Students may use Aboriginal Studies and Braided Journeys 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.

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.

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.