IB DP Theory of Knowledge (TOK), Y1

PREREQUISITE: Social Studies 10-1, or Principal permission

COREQUITSE: IB Diploma / IB Certificate Programme Track or Principal permission

Theory of Knowledge (TOK) is a senior-level course, required by all full-time participants in IB DP, but available for Alberta Education credit to other students, as enrolment space allows. IB DP students successfully complete TOK over two years of study. The bulk of the course is scheduled in Grade 11 (Y1), with additional student engagement required of IB DP candidates in Grade 12 (Y2). All participants are engaged in an exploration of our cognitive selves and the reality we share with others. Learning opportunities are presented through guided discussions, rigorous analysis of text, lectures, investigations, creative expression, oral presentations, and formal essays. The primary aims of the course are to give the participants structured opportunities to examine how we “know” things and to develop skills in critically reflecting on how we know what we know. Associated with these primary aims is the development of skill in: (1) recognizing bias in perspective, from personal through to social and cultural levels, (2) appreciating different value systems without abdicating one’s own set of values, (2) recognizing that with knowledge comes responsibility, and (4) expressing ideas clearly and effectively, in written, oral, or visual modes.

The TOK course entails the application of four elements – Scope, Perspectives, Methods and Tools, and Ethics – to all lessons, regardless of their particular focus and content. Further, the Program of Studies features a compulsory Core Theme (“Knowers and Knowledge”) and another two Optional Themes (selected by the instructor from a range of five available choices). Core and optional themes are outlined below.

• Core Theme (CT1): Me as a knower and thinker

• CT2: My perspective assumptions and biases

• CT3: Where do our values come from?

• CT4: How can we navigate the world?

• CT5: How do we know when we are being manipulated or “spun”?

• Optional Theme (OT1:) Knowledge and Technology

• OT2: Knowledge and Indigenous Societies

3 Credits

• TOK is one of the core components of the IB’s Diploma Programme (DP) and, without its successful completion, no IB Diploma can be awarded.

• Students receive 3 credits for Philosophies of Man 30.

Social Studies 30-1

PREREQUISITE: Socials 20-1 or Principal approval

Based on the Alberta Education Program of Studies curriculum, students in this course explore the origins and complexities of ideologies and examine multiple perspectives regarding the principles of classical and modern liberalism. An analysis of various political and economic systems will allow students to assess the viability of the principles of liberalism. Understanding the roles and responsibilities associated with citizenship will encourage students to respond to emergent global issues. The principles of liberalism have played a significant role in developing modern democratic societies. Developing a comprehensive understanding of the evolution of modern liberal thought and the tenets of competing ideologies is important in developing active, informed, and responsible citizens. This understanding will enable students to effectively investigate, analyze, and evaluate government policies and actions and develop individual and collective responses to contemporary local, national, and global issues.

Legal Studies 30

Based on the Alberta Education Program of Studies curriculum, Legal Studies is a course that falls under the Alberta Learning CTS Legal Studies Program of Studies. Legal Studies, at this level, focus on criminal law, Charter Rights, and judicial interpretations. The aim is to provide students with an understanding of how to engage with the legal system. The focus of this course is to act as an introduction to career development in legal studies through exposure to legal frameworks and the understanding of core concepts. Additionally, the course acts as an opportunity to deepen student understanding regarding the Constitution Act of 1982. Students are exposed to current events and landmark case studies to better understand Canada’s legal system. The learning in this course is enhanced through a significant experiential learning component, as students will have the opportunity to participate in mock trials and debates. In addition, students will have the opportunity to compete in a mock trial. Finally, since this is a course that seeks to grow competencies in the field of law, efforts will be made to provide students with insights from those who work in the field itself to gain a better understanding of what will be expected of them should they pursue a career in law.

Three units of study comprise this course: (1) Controversy and Change, (2) Landmark Cases, and (3) Criminal Law.