Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2026 - POL 222 B100

Introduction to Canadian Politics (3)

Class Number: 2679

Delivery Method: Blended

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 5 – Apr 10, 2026: TBA, TBA
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Apr 17, 2026
    Fri, 8:30–10:30 a.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    POL 100 or 151 or permission of department.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

An introduction to the social and participatory basis of Canadian politics, covering topics such as political culture, regionalism and other political divisions, political parties, elections, interest groups and new social movements.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

COURSE DETAILS:

This course looks at the political dynamics that make Canada such an interesting country. Just what are the cleavages that divide our population and drive our politics? What impact have they had over the years? These are questions you will explore in the class, as you learn more about the regional, linguistic, ethnic, class, gender, and age divisions evident in Canada. How political parties operate and what opportunities Canadians have to engage during elections are central issues in how citizen demands get channelled. Social movements and interest groups provide other important ways in which Canadians can try to influence public policies. The exclusion of indigenous peoples over the years has led to various demands and attempts to redress inequities and engage in reconciliation. The vital role played by the media, both commercial and social, will be an important theme in appreciating how we learn about our society and how issues and groups get portrayed to others.

COURSE ORGANIZATION:

There will be weekly lecture videos, to be accessed asynchronously, and a weekly one-hour in-person tutorial beginning in Week Two. Each week’s lecture videos should be watched before attending the tutorial.

Note:  This course is Blended.

Grading

  • Midterm Exam 10%
  • Term Paper 40%
  • Final Exam 30%
  • Tutorial Attendance 5%
  • Tutorial Presentation 5%
  • Tutorial Participation 10%

NOTES:

Students are required to submit their written assignments to the Turnitin.com service in order to get credit.

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

Brooks, Canadian Democracy, 9th Edition

Purchase this text as an e-text directly oupcanada.com (ISBN 9780199032501):

https://www.oupcanada.com/catalog/9780199032501.html

Amazon may have copies of the paperback version available (ISBN 9780199032501):

https://www.amazon.ca/Canadian-Democracy-Stephen-Brooks/dp/0199032505


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.

Department Undergraduate Notes:

The Department of Political Science strictly enforces a policy on plagiarism.

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.