1. Grade 8 Social Studies Introduction

2. What is Worldview?
What is Worldview?

3. Worldview Is…
The beliefs that we have about reality and the nature of human life. It is the lens through which we perceive, identify and communicate who we are.
Our worldview shapes our behavior and all the decisions that we make.
A worldview should answer the basic questions:
“Who are we?”
“Where do we come from?”
“How do we manage our lives?”
“Where are we going?”

4. So… Worldview is…
A collection of beliefs about life and the universe held by an individual or a group; the overall perspective from which one sees and interprets the world.
Our worldview includes perspective and point of view
Worldview is not static and is constantly changing over time with new experiences

5. Canadian Worldview
Canadians share some or all of the following characteristics, beliefs and values:
Universal programs to care for all (healthcare, education, social assistance, pensions, minimum wage)
Peacekeepers & peacemakers; not militaristic
Debate then decide
Spirit of working together, spirit of confederation
Value diversity
Laws guide us
Protection of our rights and freedoms
Take time to make decisions, negotiate, & not be overly aggressive
ANY OTHER IDEAS??????

6. Traditional Aboriginal Worldview
Elders are respected for their wisdom.
Governing is through agreement, not control of leader.
All life is sacred and equally important.
People are connected to the community and ancestors.
Human experience includes spiritual, physical, emotional and mental aspects.
Life is a circle; time moves through cycles.
All forms of life are connected in a constantly changing, balanced relationship.
The well- being of the Earth is essential for our survival and our children's.

7. Your Worldview Can Change . . . How?
Acceptance of new technology (WWW, printing press, jet travel)
2. A leader mandating and maintaining policies ( Hitler, France- Language police)
Conflict and conquest (Spanish/Aztecs, Romans/Greeks)
4. Gradual adaptation (Materialism, open access to information)

8. Introducing the worldviews icon

9. Geography
Knowledge
Time
Worldview
Society
Society
Beliefs
Values

11. the gods must be crazy
isolation
intercultural contact
change