1. + Families in Canada HHS 4C Ms. Gibbons – St. Paul Catholic Secondary School Individual Family Society

2. + The Scope of the Social Sciences The social sciences are not concerned with ‘absolute truth,’ and do not pretend to be. All disciplines within the social sciences (Anthropology, Sociology, Psychology) report on patterns or trends of behaviour. Once a pattern / trend can be identified, predictions can be made about future events. In order to identify a pattern / trend, many subjects (people) need to be observed over a long period of time.

3. + Because there are no absolute truths… Please do not take offence to the course material. Everyone has their own story, and our perceptions of the world are largely based on our experiences. Education informs our decisions, but ultimately it is you, the individual, who makes the choices that concern your lives.

4. + In the Social Sciences, do our opinions really matter? NO!!!

5. + “Canadians view families as essential to personal and social well-being” (Bibby, 2004) With your elbow partner, discuss both of your views regarding this point, and suggest three reasons why you feel this may be true. Share Your Answers with Class.

6. + What constitutes a family? (pg. 5 of text) The actual nature of families. And the desirable nature of families based on the social policies of that culture. Definitions of family is used to determine who qualifies for the benefits of families. Who should be responsible for the obligations of family. For example who should support the needs of children.

7. + In groups of 4… Define the word “Family.” Try to be as specific as possible… After you have discussed and made notes, select one representative of your group and have them go to a white board and communicate your groups thinking by either a brainstorming diagram or in paragraph form

8. + Homework Please read and complete ‘Definitions of the Family’