Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Summer 2025 - EDUC 414 E100

Designs for Learning: Secondary Social Studies (4)

Class Number: 4377

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    May 12 – Aug 8, 2025: Mon, 4:30–8:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    EDUC 401/402 or corequisite EDUC 403.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Focuses on teaching secondary school social studies and addresses aspects of the theory and practice of social studies education. Students examine their own thinking about social studies education through critical reflection, work with the prescribed curriculum, and explore various ways to develop engaging learning experiences for young adults within a consistent framework using appropriate instructional materials and methods.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course is designed for teachers to expand their understanding of social studies education and its place as a subject in Canadian secondary schools. Students will explore the foundational aspects of social studies, various strategies for teaching social studies, and curriculum implementation of this vast and complex subject.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

  • understand the underlying objectives of social studies education in Canadian high schools
  • become familiar with the British Columbia secondary social studies curriculum
  • explore possibilities for practice including teaching strategies and content delivery
  • establish and justify a personal vision of social studies
  • experience curriculum planning (lessons & units) for social studies classes
  • learning to work collaboratively and cooperatively with other professionals

Grading

  • Working Group Seminars 30%
  • Written Response 25%
  • Curriculum & Unit Plan Assignment 30%
  • Class Participation & Unit Plan Contribution 15%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

Case, R., & Clark, P. (2020).  Learning to Inquire in History, Geography, and Social Studies: An Anthology for Secondary Teachers.

https://tc2.ca/shop/learning-inquire-history-geography-social-studies-anthology-secondary-teachers-ebook-p-2220
ISBN: 978-1-9991413-3-2

Ministry of Education, Social Studies Curriculum:  https://curriculum.gov.bc.ca/


Additional Readings: These will be available in a folder on Canvas.

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.