Page 15 - Social Sciences Humanities - The Ontario Curriculum Grades 9 to 12 - 2013

OVERVIEW OF THE PROGRAM
All five of the subject areas in the secondary social sciences and humanities program – equity studies, family studies, general social sciences, philosophy, and world religions – are concerned with how students view themselves, their families, their communities, and the broader society, and how they come to understand and respond to the world around them. Through practical experience, discussion, debate, research, reflection, and the development of critical and creative thinking skills, social sciences and humanities courses help students become self-motivated problem solvers equipped with the skills and knowledge that will enable them to face their changing world with confidence.
Courses in Social Sciences and Humanities, Grades 9–12
Five types of courses are offered in the social sciences and humanities program: university preparation, university/college preparation, college preparation, workplace preparation, and open courses. Students choose between course types on the basis of their interests, achievement, and postsecondary goals. The course types are defined as follows:
University preparation courses are designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills they need to meet the entrance requirements for university programs.
University/college preparation courses are designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills they need to meet the entrance requirements for specific programs offered at universities and colleges.
College preparation courses are designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills they need to meet the requirements for entrance to most college programs or for admission to specific apprenticeship or other training programs.
Workplace preparation courses are designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills they need to meet the expectations of employers, if they plan to enter the workplace directly after graduation, or the requirements for admission to many apprenticeship or other training programs.
Open courses are designed to broaden students’ knowledge and skills in subjects that reflect their interests and prepare them for active and rewarding participation in society. They are not designed with the specific requirements of universities, colleges, or the workplace in mind.
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THE PROGRAM IN SOCIAL SCIENCES AND HUMANITIES