Departments
Canadian and World Studies, Social Science and Humanities
At Loretto College School, our Canadian and World Studies Department allows students to critically think about the world around them. Starting in grade 9 Geography, our students will start to develop an understanding of the interconnections between natural and human environments on a local to global scale by answering the questions: "What is where, why there, and why care?". In addition, they will begin to explore the interconnections between the physical and human environment by conducting geographic inquiries using various spatial technologies, constructing maps and graphs, and interpreting and analysing data to formulate their own conclusions and solutions to the many issues that will be explored.
In Grade 10, students will be required to take History and Civics. In History, our students will explore the world historically by asking questions like "Who are we? Who came before us? How have we changed?". They will continue to use their critical thinking skills to develop an understanding of past events, as well as current issues, analyse how people interacted and how these interactions changed overtime, and understand the experiences people have faced and empathize with past experience. They will also conduct historical research but interpreting and analysing evidence from various primary and secondary sources. In the Civics course, students will begin to develop a sense of responsibility on the political stage. They will answer the questions "Where do I belong? How can I contribute?" by learning to become informed and active citizens in our society. To further their interest in Canadian and World Studies and to continue to develop a greater understanding of the world around them, students will be able to continue their studies by taking courses in Geography, History, and Law.
Additionally, in this department, students can explore a variety of courses addressing the quintessential question of "Who Am I?". Students will be able to explore courses such as Anthropology, Psychology, and Sociology, Equity Studies, Family Studies, Canadian Law, Raising Healthy Children, World History, World Issues, and Philosophy, just to name a few! These areas of study 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. These courses encourage our students to use critical and creative thinking skills through practical experience, discussion, debate, research, and reflection. 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.
Those interested in focused study can pursue the Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) in Arts and Culture (Grades 11–12), which provides enriched opportunities for exploration, innovation, and real-world readiness. Loretto graduates leave with a deep appreciation for multiple perspectives and a strong sense of their place in an interconnected global community.
Courses
Students will be able to learn about the following subjects in each grade:
Canadian and World Studies
Grade 9: Geography Canada
Grade 10: Canadian History in the Twentieth Century
Grade 10: Civics
Grade 11: Understanding Canadian Law - University / College
Grade 11: Travel and Tourism - A Regional Geographic Perspective
Grade 12: Canadian and International Law
Grade 12: World Issues - A Geographic
Grade 12: World History - The West and the World
Social Sciences and Humanities
Grade 10: Individual and Family Living
Grade 11: Parenting
Grade 11: Introduction to Anthropology, Psychology, and Sociology
Grade 12: Individuals and Families in a Diverse Society
Grade 12: Social Justice and Equity - From Theory to Practice
Grade 12: Philosophy