Grade 6 – Social Studies

Course Overview

The Grade 6 Social Studies course represents the culmination of the junior social studies journey as students expand their understanding of Canadian identity while examining the nation’s role within an interconnected global community. Building on historical and geographic foundations established in earlier grades, learners explore how communities evolve, how cultures interact, and how national decisions influence international relationships.

Students investigate migration patterns, cultural contributions, and the development of inclusive societies while analyzing the economic, environmental, and political factors that shape Canada’s global presence. Through inquiry based learning, students strengthen their ability to interpret evidence, consider multiple perspectives, and form well reasoned conclusions.

As students prepare for intermediate studies, they develop the awareness and critical thinking skills necessary to participate thoughtfully in an increasingly complex world.

Important Information

• No prerequisites are required for elementary courses
• Ontario elementary programs do not issue transcript credits
• Facilitated and independent learning pathways are available to support different learning needs

What Students Will Develop

Throughout the course, students engage in meaningful exploration that strengthens analytical thinking, responsible citizenship, and global awareness.

Students will:

• Examine the historical and contemporary contributions of diverse Canadian communities
• Understand migration and settlement patterns that have shaped national identity
• Analyze how cultures interact and influence one another over time
• Investigate Canada’s relationships within the global community
• Interpret maps and geographic data to support inquiry
• Evaluate social, environmental, and economic issues from multiple perspectives
• Develop evidence based conclusions through research
• Identify actions citizens and governments can take to address complex challenges

These competencies prepare students to engage responsibly with both national and global issues.

Course Structure

Learning is organized into thoughtfully designed units that deepen understanding while encouraging critical reflection and informed participation.

Communities in Canada: Past and Present

Students explore the diverse communities that have contributed to Canada’s development. Instruction examines migration, settlement, and cultural traditions while highlighting the interactions among Indigenous peoples and settler communities. Learners analyze how communities change over time and investigate the elements that support an inclusive national identity.

Canada’s Interactions With the Global Community

Students examine Canada’s connections with other nations through economic partnerships, international agreements, humanitarian efforts, and environmental initiatives. Using maps and data, learners investigate the causes and impacts of global relationships while evaluating how Canada responds to international challenges and emergencies.

Students also explore environmental and economic issues that influence global stability and consider how collaborative action can support sustainable futures.

Learning Resources

As a fully online course, Grade 6 Social Studies does not rely on a traditional textbook. Students utilize digital tools and hands on materials that support inquiry and analysis.

Recommended resources include:

• A device capable of capturing written work
• Audio recording tools when required
• Access to a printer
• A binder, folder, or notebook for offline activities
• Materials that support mapping and research tasks
• Household items that facilitate project based learning

These resources help create an interactive environment where students actively explore social and global topics.

Teaching and Learning Approach

Our approach integrates structured instruction with inquiry based experiences so that students develop both knowledge and intellectual independence.

Key features of the learning experience include:

• Investigations that promote historical and geographic understanding
• Opportunities to analyze multiple perspectives
• Real world connections that enhance relevance
• Research experiences that strengthen evidence based reasoning
• Collaborative discussions that support thoughtful dialogue
• Consistent teacher support that guides academic growth

Interactive lessons incorporate media, case studies, and applied learning experiences that encourage students to think critically about their role within society.

Teachers play a vital role in supporting inquiry, fostering respectful discussion, and helping students build the confidence needed to engage with complex social issues.

Preparing Students for Intermediate Social Studies

Grade 6 marks an important transition as students move from foundational understanding toward more advanced social analysis. By the end of the course, learners demonstrate stronger reasoning skills, greater cultural awareness, and an increased ability to evaluate global developments.

At Trinity Ontario Elementary School, every learning experience reflects the vision of Trinity Ontario Global Academy by combining academic excellence with character development and global perspective. Students complete Grade 6 Social Studies equipped with the knowledge, perspective, and confidence needed to succeed in intermediate studies and to participate responsibly in a globally connected society.