What HHS4U focuses on

HHS4U enables students to use sociological, psychological, and anthropological theories and research to analyse individual development, intimate relationships, family relationships, and parent-child relationships.

How students apply learning

Students examine issues and challenges facing individuals and families in Canada’s diverse society. They also develop research and inquiry skills to investigate, analyse, and communicate findings related to families in Canada.

Theoretical perspectives on development

• Explore theories and research related to individual development.
• Investigate the development of intimate relationships.
• Examine family and parent-child relationships across stages of life.
• Connect individual development to later family life and relationships.
• Conduct inquiry into different aspects of development and family experiences.

Impact of norms, roles, and institutions

• Analyse how norms, roles, and social institutions affect individuals throughout the lifespan.
• Examine the effects of social expectations on intimate relationships.
• Explore how institutions influence family and parent-child relationships.
• Investigate factors that affect decisions about having and caring for children.
• Connect family roles and parenting choices to Canadian society.

Social issues and demographic trends

• Analyse demographic trends related to individuals and families in Canada.
• Explore social issues and challenges that affect individual development.
• Investigate trends and challenges in intimate relationships.
• Examine strategies for responding to relationship and family challenges.
• Study trends related to family development and parent-child relationships.

How grades are calculated

• 70% — Term work based on products, observations, and conversations.
• 30% — Final evaluation, including summative work and examination.
• Achievement Categories: Knowledge & Understanding (25%), Thinking (25%), Communication (25%), Application (25%).
• Assessment tools: marking schemes, rubrics, anecdotal comments, and checklists.

Main course resources

• No specific textbook is required for this course.
• Students use a variety of course readings and teacher-selected resources.
• Ontario Social Sciences and Humanities curriculum resources support course expectations.
• Selected online videos, articles, and reference materials may be used for inquiry and discussion.

Important supports

Planning includes varied instructional approaches, inclusive learning materials, literacy development, inquiry and research skills, technology use, health and safety, career education, and academic honesty.

Students are supported through discussion, research, independent work, group learning, presentations, worksheets, and teacher feedback while developing critical thinking and communication skills.