Social Studies Course Descriptions

Course Descriptions

History 10 — 1 credit

This course focuses on ancient history and allows students the opportunity to develop an understanding of the concept of civilization through the examination of the origins of civilization and a comparison of some civilizations that have contributed to the nature of the modern world. There are five broad chronological divisions in the course: The Evolution of Human Beings, the Birth of Civilizations, Egypt, Greece, and Rome. Each of these divisions can be considered from a number of points of view including geography, archaeology, society, language, religion and politics. Development of Social Studies skills, such as researching, writing essays and analysis of documentary evidence will be emphasized.

African Canadian Studies 11 — 1 credit

Completes the Canadian History requirement

This course is an introduction to the historical experience of African peoples. This course provides an overview of African history and the African Diaspora (dispersal) to the "New World" with particular emphasis on the African Nova Scotia experience. The course will equip students with a sound understanding of the experiences, local achievements and contributions of people of African descent. Students will discuss the geographical, historical, economic, political and social experiences, struggles and life stories of a people who have made a significant contribution to world history.

Canadian History 11 — 1 credit

Completes the Canadian History requirement

This course uses both a chronological and a thematic approach to Canadian History through the study of continuing or persistent questions that have deep historical roots for previous generations of Canadians. Globalization, Development, Governance, Sovereignty and Justice are among the continuing/persistent questions that this course will address. This course has an online component.

Contemporary Canadian Studies 11 — 1 credit

Completes the Canadian History requirement

Contemporary Canadian Studies 11 is a contemporary history course that gives learners the opportunity to reflect on Canada’s changing contexts at home and on the world stage from 1945 to the present. The course explores three interrelated themes: Canadian identities, conflict and resolution, and justice and reconciliation. Learners will analyse relevant case studies through a variety of lenses inclusive of Indigenous and African Canadian perspectives. Learners will investigate major events that served as catalysts for change in relation to Canadian politics, economics, and society. Throughout the course, learners will develop skills that will allow them to implement an independent study, using the historical method, in an area of Canadian history of their choosing.

Economics 11 — 1 credit

This course places a specific emphasis on the basic economic structure of Canada and the role Canada plays in a global economic community. Economics 11 will enable students to examine aspects of Canada's economy that affect them as individuals and as part of the global community. Students will explore the basis for economic study with the critical thinking skills necessary for interpreting economic events and making informed personal economic choices. Students will explore the following topics: basis for economic study, role of money, supply and demand, markets and the economy, production and productivity, inflation and unemployment, government involvement in the economy, and distribution of income and wealth in Canada.

Études canadiennes contemporaines 11F — 1 credit

Completes the Canadian History requirement

Contemporary Canadian Studies 11 is a preparation course for students to gain a better understanding of the skills and knowledge required to engage in the humanities.  The goal of Contemporary Canadian Studies 11 is to examine the resilience of cultures that have widely been ignored over the past several centuries of Canada’s existence.As with its English equivalent, the main goal of the course is to examine questions or problems that have been recurring throughout Canadian history. The course follows an outcome based approach meaning that each and every assignment is important and should be given the attention it deserves. An outcome based approach means that there will not be units, there will be themes and projects, tests, quizzes, essays and anything else that we believe will help you to understand the concepts. 

Gaelic Studies 11 — 1 credit

Completes the Canadian History requirement

This course affirms the language, history, tradition, and art of Nova Scotia and other Canadian Gaels, and explores the continuing influence of the Gaelic culture on life in local, national and global contexts. Learning experiences in this course will enable all students to develop knowledge and understanding of and respect for the unique nature of the Gaelic culture. Gaelic Studies 11 provides opportunities for students to experience the diversity of expression of many aspects of Gaelic culture and to recognize the values inherent in Gaelic community life. It presents unique opportunities to take learning beyond the classroom to include community and industry. The course focuses on history and identity, oral tradition and literature, and the arts of the Gaels.

Histoire du Canada 11F — 1 credit

Completes the Canadian History requirement

This course uses both a chronological and a thematic approach to Canadian History and Justice are among the continuing/persistent questions that this course will address. This course has an online component.

History 11 — 1 credit

This course covers the major developments in technology, political systems, rights and knowledge from the Middle- Ages to modern times. Its focus is on European events and trends, revolution, ideology, conquests and growth of various empires. Major topics in this course include the Renaissance and Reformation and the power of art and ideas by da Vinci and Michelangelo. A study of France during the 17th Century and the rule of the sun king. As well there will be an investigation of The French Revolution and the ensuing Napoleonic Era. The Industrial Revolution and the Russian Revolution will round out the course.

IB Global Politics — no credit

The DP global politics course explores fundamental political concepts such as power, equality, sustainability and peace in a range of contexts. It allows students to develop an understanding of the local, national, international and global dimensions of political activity and processes, as well as to explore political issues affecting their own lives. The course helps students to understand abstract political concepts by grounding them in real-world examples and case studies. It also invites comparison between such examples and case studies to ensure a wider and trans-national perspective.

Teachers explicitly teach thinking and research skills such as comprehension, text analysis, transfer, and use of primary sources. The study of global politics enables students to critically engage with different and new perspectives and approaches to politics in order to comprehend the challenges of the changing world and become aware of their role in it as active global citizens.

IB History — no credit

Non immersion students may choose either HL or SL History. These courses are scheduled in the same class with the final IB exam being written in May of grade 12.

The history course allows candidates to study history from an international perspective with the aim of explaining trends in developments, continuity and change through time and through individual events. The course is concerned with individuals and societies in the widest context: political, social, economic, religious, technological and cultural. Students will be challenged to be critical of historical sources and to examine a variety of sources to determine accuracy and reliability of historical knowledge. An aim of the course is to foster international awareness and understanding and to construct historical knowledge from the point of view of different cultures.

Recommended Prerequisite

History 10 Pre-IB

IB Psychology — no credit

The IB Diploma Programme psychology course aims to develop an awareness of how research findings can be applied to better understand human behaviour and how ethical practices are upheld in psychological inquiry. Students learn to understand the biological, cognitive and sociocultural influences on human behaviour and explore alternative explanations of behaviour. They also understand and use diverse methods of psychological inquiry.The IB Diploma Programme psychology course aims to develop an awareness of how research findings can be applied to better understand human behaviour and how ethical practices are upheld in psychological inquiry. Students learn to understand the biological, cognitive and sociocultural influences on human behaviour and explore alternative explanations of behaviour. They also understand and use diverse methods of psychological inquiry.

Mi'kmaq Studies 11 — 1 credit

Completes the Canadian History requirement

The Mi`kmaq Studies 11 course will provide all students with an understanding of historical and contemporary issues in Mi`kmaq society. The course will consider the cultural, social, spiritual, and political events, trends, and traditions in the history of the Mi`kmaq. The course will use an issue-based approach and will consider broad concepts such as justice, self-determination, political autonomy, education and schooling, the family, social and political organizations, native rights, spiritual principles, and personal/group identity. Students will analyze historical and contemporary issues in Mi`kmaq society, which will enable them to achieve a greater understanding of and respect for Mi`kmaq contributions to society.

Comparative World Religions 12 — 1 credit

This course examines the nature of religion and its origin and place in human society. Students will study and analyze the five major religious traditions of the world today - Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Throughout the course of study, an emphasis will be placed on similarities among the various religious philosophies. This course will foster a student understanding of the diversity of religions, religious experiences, religious practice, and the reasons for particular expressions of religious belief within a society or culture. Comparative World Religion 12 encourages a comprehensive and balanced examination of the prevailing ideas and attitudes pertaining to religion as a component of human culture.

Droit 12F — 1 credit

Law 12 is designed to introduce high school students to the area of law and to provide them with skills and understandings that will enable them to better understand their rights and responsibilities as citizens. Law 12 is organized with three compulsory units—Foundations of Justice and the Law, Criminal Law, and Civil Law—and a fourth unit that enables students to sample from a variety of legal topics. Foundations of Justice and the Law looks at the roots and history of law, especially in Canada. Criminal Law examines the procedure and parties involved in investigating and trying a criminal case, as well as sentencing options. Civil Law focuses torts, contractual obligations, and family law. The fourth unit provides opportunities to look at Aboriginal Law, International Law, Immigration Law, Human Rights Law, Environmental Law, Employment Law, Consumer Law, as well as Media and Internet Law. Law 12 students will also be expected to employ research methods appropriate to the discipline of law.

Economics 12 — 1 credit

This course provides a systematic and in-depth study of economic issues and theories. By providing a balanced and wide range of perspectives, students will be encouraged to evaluate and debate real-world economic issues for themselves. Analytical and critical thinking skills will be emphasized throughout the course. Major units will include microeconomics theory (supply and demand, the theory of the firm) and macroeconomics theory (economic growth, government policy, economic indicators). Optional units will be chosen from topics such as the history of economic ideas, international trade, and interpreting economic data. Students will have the opportunity to complete a project and participate in a national stock market competition.

Recommended Prerequisite

Economics 11

Géographie planétaire 12F — 1 credit

Completes the Global Studies requirement

This course features eight compulsory units, which are based on the standard themes and skills of the discipline of geography. These units are: Our Fragile Planet, Environmental Hazards, The Peopled Planet, Feeding the Planet, Global Resources, Global Factory, Urbanization and The Future Planet. Each unit is based upon a theme which is fundamental to the key question upon which the course is built: 'How did the world arrive at its current state?'

Global Geography 12 — 1 credit

Completes the Global Studies requirement

This course features eight compulsory units, which are based on the standard themes and skills of the discipline of geography. These units are: Our Fragile Planet, Environmental Hazards, The Peopled Planet, Feeding the Planet, Global Resources, Global Factory, Urbanization and The Future Planet. Each unit is based upon a theme which is fundamental to the key question upon which the course is built: 'How did the world arrive at its current state?'

Global History 12 — 1 credit

Completes the Global Studies requirement

This course examines the major themes in the history of the Post-World War II Era. Students will examine these themes in five compulsory units: East-West: The Role of Super Power in the Post-World War II Era, The Pursuit of Justice, Societal and Technological Change, Acknowledging Global Interdependence, and The Legacy of the Twentieth Century. In their study of these units, students will examine history from three perspectives - social, economic, and political - and will use the research and inquiry skills of the historian.

Throughout their studies, students will address the focus question of the course: 'Has humanity emerged into a world whose actions are governed more by interdependence at the global level than by dependence or independence at the national or international level?' Likewise, they will be able to propose reasonable answers to the question upon which Nova Scotia's global studies courses are built - 'How did the world arrive at its current state?'

IB Global Politics HL — 2½ credits

Completes the Global Studies requirement

The DP global politics course explores fundamental political concepts such as power, equality, sustainability and peace in a range of contexts. It allows students to develop an understanding of the local, national, international and global dimensions of political activity and processes, as well as to explore political issues affecting their own lives. The course helps students to understand abstract political concepts by grounding them in real-world examples and case studies. It also invites comparison between such examples and case studies to ensure a wider and trans-national perspective.

Teachers explicitly teach thinking and research skills such as comprehension, text analysis, transfer, and use of primary sources. The study of global politics enables students to critically engage with different and new perspectives and approaches to politics in order to comprehend the challenges of the changing world and become aware of their role in it as active global citizens.

Recommended Prerequisite

IB Global Politics

IB Global Politics SL — 1½ credits

Completes the Global Studies requirement

The DP global politics course explores fundamental political concepts such as power, equality, sustainability and peace in a range of contexts. It allows students to develop an understanding of the local, national, international and global dimensions of political activity and processes, as well as to explore political issues affecting their own lives. The course helps students to understand abstract political concepts by grounding them in real-world examples and case studies. It also invites comparison between such examples and case studies to ensure a wider and trans-national perspective.

Teachers explicitly teach thinking and research skills such as comprehension, text analysis, transfer, and use of primary sources. The study of global politics enables students to critically engage with different and new perspectives and approaches to politics in order to comprehend the challenges of the changing world and become aware of their role in it as active global citizens.

Recommended Prerequisite

IB Global Politics

IB History HL — 2½ credits

Completes the Global Studies requirement

Non immersion students may choose either HL or SL History. These courses are scheduled in the same class with the final IB exam being written in May of grade 12.

The history course allows candidates to study history from an international perspective with the aim of explaining trends in developments, continuity and change through time and through individual events. The course is concerned with individuals and societies in the widest context: political, social, economic, religious, technological and cultural. Students will be challenged to be critical of historical sources and to examine a variety of sources to determine accuracy and reliability of historical knowledge. An aim of the course is to foster international awareness and understanding and to construct historical knowledge from the point of view of different cultures.

Recommended Prerequisite

IB History

IB History SL — 1½ credits

Completes the Global Studies requirement

Non immersion students may choose either HL or SL History. These courses are scheduled in the same class with the final IB exam being written in May of grade 12.

The history course allows candidates to study history from an international perspective with the aim of explaining trends in developments, continuity and change through time and through individual events. The course is concerned with individuals and societies in the widest context: political, social, economic, religious, technological and cultural. Students will be challenged to be critical of historical sources and to examine a variety of sources to determine accuracy and reliability of historical knowledge. An aim of the course is to foster international awareness and understanding and to construct historical knowledge from the point of view of different cultures.

Recommended Prerequisite

IB History

IB Psychology HL — 2½ credits

The IB Diploma Programme psychology course aims to develop an awareness of how research findings can be applied to better understand human behaviour and how ethical practices are upheld in psychological inquiry. Students learn to understand the biological, cognitive and sociocultural influences on human behaviour and explore alternative explanations of behaviour. They also understand and use diverse methods of psychological inquiry.

IB Psychology SL — 1½ credits

The IB Diploma Programme psychology course aims to develop an awareness of how research findings can be applied to better understand human behaviour and how ethical practices are upheld in psychological inquiry. Students learn to understand the biological, cognitive and sociocultural influences on human behaviour and explore alternative explanations of behaviour. They also understand and use diverse methods of psychological inquiry.

Recommended Prerequisite

IB Psychology

Law 12 — 1 credit

The Canadian Law course is designed to provide students with knowledge of law and its function in society and the opportunity to develop skills and attitudes that will enable them to understand the process of law. Topics include the Nova Scotia court system, law-making procedure, criminal law procedure, civil law and individual disputes, jury selection, drug and alcohol offences, the Youth Criminal Justice Act, the Charter of Rights and Freedoms and Tort law. A visit to a Court session will usually be included.

Philosophy 12 — 1 credit

This is a university preparatory course that will introduce students to a variety of philosophical traditions, movements, and methods. The student will learn the purposes for philosophizing, about some of the many issues and subject areas it has addressed and/or shaped since time immemorial, and about its overall influence on the evolution of human civilization. Philosophy and its practitioners have always attempted to sort out what is, what might be, and as well to question the limitations of the human mind to establish certainties about what is right/wrong, true/false, un/real, and so on. The course culminates by asking the student to consider where and what s/he is in the "here and now". Different philosophical branches that will be featured in the course will include: Epistemology, Metaphysics, Cosmology, Logic, Ethics, Ontology and Aesthetics.

Sociology 12 — 1 credit

Sociology 12 is designed to give an understanding of the basic aspect of sociology and its related discipline of anthropology and psychology. It allows students to apply the main sociological research methods to examine Canadian sociological issues. All societies have social issues such as crime, poverty, divorce, and discrimination that affect the way they interact. Students will examine these controversial issues from an open-minded perspective. In order to do so, they will learn about biases and use this knowledge to deconstruct various texts. The course will attempt to develop an understanding of and an appreciation for different personalities, cultures and behaviours that exist. In addition, it will allow for self-awareness and encourage individual thought and expression. Sociology 12 covers a variety of topics that will be of interest to the students as sociologists and also as teenagers. They will discover the nature and history of sociology through a variety of methods. The course focuses on topics such as human behaviours, socialization and development, prejudice and discrimination, culture, aggression and violence, and deviance and social control.