This course is designed to engage students in their society. We'll look at all things culture. Specifically, how culture is formed, developed, organized, manifested, and adapts to conflict. At points we will focus on specific areas as a class and during more individualized stretches you will explore areas of your own personal interest. Additionally, we will be inviting guests to join our class and share their perspectives or expertise in specific areas. In a globalized world, it is important that we explore different ways of knowing and understanding the world and this course will start that journey.
Teaching Approach
Assessment:
While we will engage in a number of formative activities, simulations and field trips, we will develop a foundation of the course through a variety of assessments.
Summative Assessments - 100%
These assessments will consist of projects, assignments, the occasional quiz and tests. As per the new BC Curriculum, we will also be focused consistently on the curricular competencies that are a key component of the 4 big ideas we will be exploring this year. Those will be formative in nature and will require self-assessment throughout the course.
KBAT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1LRyxRQ3ZRMwrYuRVJ927GURedkrSYNi60hKF5NjxbGI/edit
Preparation
For each and every class, please bring a readiness to listen and to respond to ideas and concepts presented in class. Because we will be active and engaged, your participation will make or break your experience in the class. Additionally, you will need a few items EVERY day to help facilitate your learning:
Communication and Submitting Assignments
Due to the nature of a differentiated / problem-based learning focus in our classroom, communication is key. We are partners in your learning and we need to make sure we are on the same page. When you submit your work, it should be on time and you should attach a self-assessment each time. If you foresee an instance when you may be late with a submission, you must communicate with me ahead of time. I understand that Brentwood is a busy place and responsibilities pile up from time to time. If you find this is happening to you, communicate with me and we will work out a plan to make sure you maintain your learning for this course. Stress will mount if you do not do this regularly. It will also reflect poorly with your Learning Skills (new incarnation of effort ratings). Let's be proactive! See below for details.
Approximate Scope & Sequence for the course this year:
Diversity - September and October
Values and Beliefs - November and December
Systems of Power and Governance - January to March
Conflict and Conflict Resolution - April to June
Teaching Approach
- Personalized Academic Engagement
- Problem Based Learning
- Simulations
- Experiential Learning
- Experiments with real data
- Partnerships with Universities, NGO’s, community groups, etc...
Assessment:
While we will engage in a number of formative activities, simulations and field trips, we will develop a foundation of the course through a variety of assessments.
Summative Assessments - 100%
These assessments will consist of projects, assignments, the occasional quiz and tests. As per the new BC Curriculum, we will also be focused consistently on the curricular competencies that are a key component of the 4 big ideas we will be exploring this year. Those will be formative in nature and will require self-assessment throughout the course.
KBAT:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1LRyxRQ3ZRMwrYuRVJ927GURedkrSYNi60hKF5NjxbGI/edit
Preparation
For each and every class, please bring a readiness to listen and to respond to ideas and concepts presented in class. Because we will be active and engaged, your participation will make or break your experience in the class. Additionally, you will need a few items EVERY day to help facilitate your learning:
- Laptop or tablet that can connect to wifi and printers
- Power cord
- Headphones
- Mobile phone
- Writing utensils
- Paper / binder
- Any materials required for the project/assignment you are working on at the time.
Communication and Submitting Assignments
Due to the nature of a differentiated / problem-based learning focus in our classroom, communication is key. We are partners in your learning and we need to make sure we are on the same page. When you submit your work, it should be on time and you should attach a self-assessment each time. If you foresee an instance when you may be late with a submission, you must communicate with me ahead of time. I understand that Brentwood is a busy place and responsibilities pile up from time to time. If you find this is happening to you, communicate with me and we will work out a plan to make sure you maintain your learning for this course. Stress will mount if you do not do this regularly. It will also reflect poorly with your Learning Skills (new incarnation of effort ratings). Let's be proactive! See below for details.
Approximate Scope & Sequence for the course this year:
Diversity - September and October
Values and Beliefs - November and December
Systems of Power and Governance - January to March
Conflict and Conflict Resolution - April to June
