Issues in Canadian Geography, Grade 9
CGC1W
Issues in Canadian Geography, Grade 9
| Course Code | CGC1W |
| Credit | 1.0 |
| Course Type | De-streamed |
| Prerequisite | None |
| Delivery | In-Person | Online Synchronous | Online Asynchronous | Hybrid |
| Grade | Grade 9 |
Course Description
This course enables students to develop a deeper understanding of the subject through inquiry, research, critical thinking, and real-world applications. Students examine contemporary and historical issues using evidence, data analysis, maps, primary and secondary sources, and collaborative learning experiences. Throughout the course, students strengthen communication, problem-solving, digital literacy, and responsible citizenship while making connections between local, national, and global perspectives. Learning opportunities encourage independent inquiry, ethical decision-making, and informed participation in society. This description is adapted from the Ontario Ministry of Education curriculum expectations.
Maple Ridge Academy Course Overview
At Maple Ridge Academy, this course is delivered through flexible in-person, synchronous online, and asynchronous learning experiences. Students engage in teacher-led instruction, collaborative discussions, research projects, case studies, multimedia presentations, and inquiry-based activities using Moodle and modern educational technologies. Our instructional approach emphasizes academic excellence, critical thinking, communication, creativity, and responsible global citizenship while preparing students for university, college, and lifelong learning.
Major Units of Study
Unit 1: Geographic Inquiry: This unit develops students’ understanding of geographic inquiry through inquiry, analysis, research, discussions, authentic tasks, and practical applications that connect classroom learning to Canadian and global contexts.
Unit 2: Natural Systems: This unit develops students’ understanding of natural systems through inquiry, analysis, research, discussions, authentic tasks, and practical applications that connect classroom learning to Canadian and global contexts.
Unit 3: Resources: This unit develops students’ understanding of resources through inquiry, analysis, research, discussions, authentic tasks, and practical applications that connect classroom learning to Canadian and global contexts.
Unit 4: Population: This unit develops students’ understanding of population through inquiry, analysis, research, discussions, authentic tasks, and practical applications that connect classroom learning to Canadian and global contexts.
Unit 5: Communities: This unit develops students’ understanding of communities through inquiry, analysis, research, discussions, authentic tasks, and practical applications that connect classroom learning to Canadian and global contexts.
Teaching & Learning Strategies
- Inquiry-based learning
- Collaborative discussions
- Case studies
- Research projects
- Digital learning using Moodle
- Presentations
- Independent inquiry
Assessment & Evaluation
| Achievement Category | Typical Weight |
| Knowledge & Understanding | 25% |
| Thinking | 25% |
| Communication | 25% |
| Application | 25% |
Assessment follows Ontario’s Growing Success policy through assessment for, as, and of learning. Evidence is collected using assignments, research projects, presentations, quizzes, unit tests, discussions, and performance tasks. The final evaluation typically accounts for 30% of the overall course grade.
Learning Skills & Work Habits
| Skill | Expectation |
| Responsibility | Meets deadlines and expectations |
| Organization | Uses time and resources effectively |
| Independent Work | Works responsibly |
| Collaboration | Works respectfully with others |
| Initiative | Shows curiosity and leadership |
| Self-Regulation | Reflects and improves learning |
Postsecondary & Career Connections
This course develops analytical, communication, research, and problem-solving skills that support success in university, college, apprenticeships, and careers in public service, business, law, education, geography, economics, and related fields.