Grade 9 Geography course: a guide for parents

In the new Grade 9 Exploring Canadian Geography curriculum students will:

• learn about various geospatial technologies and use them in their investigations
• learn about careers that are connected to current and emerging geospatial technologies such as geographic information system (GIS) developer, crime analyst, archaeologist, environmental scientist or urban planner, as well as careers in the skilled trades and science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) in which a geography background and related skills might be helpful
• make connections between the natural environment in Canada and how the unique physical geography is reflected in Canada’s identity
• discover the various forms of land tenure and ownership in Canada, including Indigenous land claims and land rights
• investigate the impact of climate change on Earth’s physical processes and on land use
• explore innovative methods and practices related to resource management, clean energy production, sustainable development and community planning.

Geographic Inquiry and Skill Development

Students will:

• analyze issues relating to Canadian geography by asking focused questions, gathering information, applying geospatial technologies, evaluating the information, drawing conclusions and communicating their results through various means and methods
• learn about careers in which a geography background and related skills might be helpful
• practise transferable skills such as critical thinking, geospatial technology and digital literacy skills, including the evaluation of information that was produced using new and innovative technologies, while discussing complex issues and current events

Physical Geography and Physical Processes in Canada

Students will:

• learn about the characteristics of Canada’s landscapes and landforms and the processes that formed, and continue to shape, Canada’s landscape
• explore patterns and trends in physical processes, phenomena and events that impact Canada and how they connect to global physical systems
• study the interrelationship between physical processes, phenomena and events and how various communities in Canada respond to and interact with them
• make connections between the natural environment in Canada and how the physical geography is reflected in Canada’s identity

Managing Canada’s Resources and Industries

Students will:

• develop a better understanding of the natural resources found in Canada and explore what affects the availability and use of these resources
• learn about various industries in Canada and their economic importance, including some of the careers within those industries, and explore the interrelationships between key factors that determine the location of different industries in Canada
• learn about Indigenous land claims and land rights and the impact that resource development has had on Indigenous land rights
• explore issues related to the sustainable development of resources and industries in Canada from a variety of perspectives

Changing Populations

Students will:

• learn about major demographic characteristics of the population in Canada and develop their data analysis skills while they explore factors that contribute to quality of life and well-being in Canada and around the world
• explore both national and international patterns and trends in population movement and settlement
• learn about various strategies used by governments, communities and organizations to address the needs of Canada’s changing population
• study how the global population affects people living in Canada and how individuals, organizations and governments in Canada address related issues

Liveable Communities

Students will:

• learn about the characteristics of different types of land use and the impact of various land uses on communities in Canada
• build knowledge about urban growth and explore the impact on the natural environment
• further develop their understanding of human systems, such as food production, transportation and energy production and consumption
• develop greater awareness of various issues related to the economic and social sustainability of communities in Canada and explore various strategies and innovative approaches to addressing them

Parents and family can have a huge influence on a child’s educational success. By showing an interest in what your child is learning and helping them make connections to everyday events at home, in the community and beyond, you can make an important contribution to their success.

Here are some ideas for how to support your child’s learning:

• Encourage your child to explore the various natural and developed features of your community. Talk with your child about their value to the community and their impact on the community. Encourage thinking about how humans have affected the environment.
• Together with your child, follow issues, events and developments related to geography on various media platforms.
• Discuss issues, developments and solutions related to Canadian geography and global physical processes, such as the impact of climate change on the Arctic, or the impact of a heat wave or drought on parts of Canada or another country.
• If you are travelling as a family, discuss the natural and built features of the places you visit and what makes them unique and distinct.
• Find practical uses for what your child is learning in class, such as having them help navigate using digital maps and real-time road or public transit reports, or reading satellite images of local weather reports.
• Help your child make connections between what they learn in school, their interests and the courses they choose to take.
• Make connections with family and friends or those in the community who use geography in their jobs and ask them to share their experiences with your child.
• Stay informed about your child’s learning by discussing their work and helping them stay on top of due dates.
• Connect with your child’s teachers, guidance counsellors or other education staff, who can provide information about skills and experiences that will support your child’s learning, future aspirations and course choices.

Grade 9 Geography course (CGC1W)

Grades 7–8 Geography

High school graduation requirements

Transferable skills