Curricular Connections: Grades 9 to 12 – Art Contest

Curricular Connections: Grades 9 to 12

Contest Question | What can I do to strengthen our democracy?

Defining Democracy

There is no single definition of democracy. It is a complex term that may be interpreted differently in different contexts. The following definition from the Canadian Library of Parliament may be a helpful starting point for students in Grades 9 to 12.

The word democracy describes a political system. In a democratic country, all eligible citizens have the right to participate, either directly or indirectly, in making the decisions that affect them. Canadian citizens normally elect someone to represent them in making decisions at the different levels of government. This is called representative democracy.

Fundamental Principles of Democracy
Students in Grades 9 to 12 may wish to delve deeper into some of the fundamental principles of democracy, including:

    • The rule of law
    • Equality and respect for human rights
    • Free and fair elections – the right to vote and run for office
    • Independent media
    • Transparent and accountable political representation
    • Opportunities for citizen participation at all levels of government
    • Tolerance of political difference

Big Ideas | Arts Education

    • The arts provide opportunities to gain insight into the perspectives and experiences of people from a variety of times, places, and cultures (Arts Education 9).
    • Traditions, perspectives, worldviews, and stories can be shared through media arts/aesthetic experiences (Media Arts 10, Art Studio 10, Studio Arts 2D 10).
    • Media arts/visual arts/photography reflect the interconnectedness of the individual, community, history, and society (Media Arts 11, Art Studio 11, Studio Arts 2D 11)
    • Media arts/visual arts are an essential element of culture and reveal insights into the human experience (Media Arts 12, and Art Studio 12 )
    • Aesthetic experiences have the power to change our perspective (Graphic Arts 12)
    • Refining artistic expression requires perseverance, resilience, and risk taking (Studio Arts 2D 12)

Additional creative inspiration can be drawn from:

Big Ideas | English Language Arts

Big Ideas | Social Studies

    • Disparities in power alter the balance of relationships between individuals and between societies (Social Studies 9).
    • The development of political institutions is influenced by economic, social, ideological and geographic factors (Social Studies 10).
    • Historical and contemporary injustices challenge the narrative and identity of Canada as an inclusive, multicultural society (Social Studies 10).
    • Social justice initiatives can transform individuals and systems (Explorations in Social Studies 11 and Social Justice 12).
    • Understanding how political decisions are made is critical to being an informed and engaged citizen (Political Studies 12).
    • Decision making in a democratic system of government is influenced by the distribution of political and social power (Political Studies 12).
    • Political institutions and ideology shape both the exercise of power and the nature of political outcomes (Political Studies 12).
    • The impact of contact and colonialism continues to affect the political, social, and economic lives of B.C. First Peoples (B.C. First Peoples 12)
    • Through self-governance, leadership, and self-determination, B.C. First Peoples challenge and resist Canada’s ongoing colonialism (B.C. First Peoples 12).
    • Reconciliation requires all colonial societies to work together to foster healing and address injustices (Contemporary Indigenous Studies 12).
    • Use indigenous principles of learning (holistic, experiential, reflective, and relational) to better understand connectedness and the reciprocal relationship of First Peoples to the land (Contemporary Indigenous Studies 12).
    • Understanding legal rights and responsibilities allows citizens to participate more fully in society (Law Studies 12).
  •