Introduction to Social Studies K to 7 - Rationale and Approach: Social Studies K to 11

Social studies, as defined in the BC curriculum, is a multidisciplinary subject that draws from the social sciences and humanities to study human interaction and natural and social environments. The overarching goal of social studies is to develop thoughtful, responsible, and active citizens who are able to acquire the requisite information to consider multiple perspectives and to make reasoned judgments. The Social Studies K to 11 curriculum provides students with opportunities to critically reflect upon events and issues in order to examine the present, make connections with the past, and consider the future.

Through their participation in social studies, students are encouraged to:

understand and prepare to exercise their roles, rights, and responsibilities within the family, the community, Canada, and the world
develop an appreciation of democracy and what it means to be Canadian
demonstrate respect for human equality and cultural diversity
think critically, evaluate information, and practise effective communication

The social studies curriculum emphasizes:

developing understanding
making connections
applying knowledge
practising active citizenship

Developing Understanding

The prescribed learning outcomes are designed to encourage in-depth study from multiple perspectives (e.g., time, place, culture, values) and to lead students to think critically and make reasoned judgments. Suggested instructional and assessment strategies emphasize an understanding of underlying ideas and relationships.

Making Connections

The Social Studies K to 11 curriculum assists students to make logical connections:

past, present, and future--between historical and contemporary events and issues
global--between various regions, environments, and cultures around the world
personal--between the curriculum and students' personal interests, concerns, and career aspirations
interdisciplinary--among other subjects, the humanities, various social science disciplines, and social studies

Applying Knowledge

Knowledge contributes to responsible citizenship when it is used by students to inform their judgments, shape their opinions, solve problems, and guide their actions. The prescribed learning outcomes focus on both content and process and support an open-minded approach to interpreting a variety of perspectives on issues. The suggested instructional and assessment strategies engage students in thoughtfully generating, applying, and assessing ideas about the world.

Practising Active Citizenship

The Social Studies K to 11 curriculum provides students with opportunities to practise the skills and processes necessary to be responsible, active citizens.

Revised: January 28, 1999

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