Elementary social studies, history and geography: a guide for parents

The curriculum has been updated with new learning. 

Indigenous learning 

The Grades 1 to 3 social studies curriculum has been revised to strengthen learning on residential schools and foster greater understanding of the contributions of First Nations, Métis and Inuit individuals, communities and nations to our province and country while learning about their histories and cultures. Students will:

• learn about traditional Indigenous and treaty territories
• develop an understanding of the ways of life in First Nations, Métis and Inuit communities between 1780 and 1850 and the impact of colonial policies and treaties
• explore the interrelationship between contemporary First Nations, Métis and Inuit communities and the land, including land use, employment and the natural environment
• learn about the impact of colonization, including the residential school system, and the reclamation and revitalization of identity, language, culture and community connections.

Holocaust learning 

The Grade 6 social studies curriculum has been updated to include learning about the Holocaust, to help younger students gain a deeper understanding of its significance and combat rising cases of antisemitism in schools. Students will:

• develop a deeper understanding of the significance of the Holocaust starting in Grade 6
• learn about the experiences of Jewish individuals, families and communities within Canada and the ongoing impact of antisemitism
• learn about the responses of the Canadian government to the Holocaust and the development of Canada’s responses to acts of hate and human rights violations after World War II.