|
PDF Version | Word
Version | Rich Text Format | Text
Format
A Timeline of Canada's Constitutional Evolution
An activity for use with the Canada in the Making site
Teacher Guide
The history of the written Canadian Constitution is a process that
could be described as being evolutionary. Sometimes, dramatic events
have spurred changes in legislation, which have in turn shaped future
events. Ultimately, this led to the Constitution that Canadians
enjoy today. This activity will give students the opportunity to
analyze primary sources (historical documents) and draw conclusions
from evidence. They will make a presentation of their findings and
contribute to a timeline of documents and events.
Subject/Grade
Social Studies (History) and Language Arts; Ages 15 and up
Overview
This learning activity will enable students to see the evolution
of the Canadian Constitution by examining individual historical
documents and answering questions. It is a group activity with discussion.
The entire activity should take between three and four hour-long
sessions.
Note that the sources used in ECO can be printed from the browser
and then photocopied.
Outcomes (WCP, APEF); Expectations
(ON); Objectives (QC)
Table of Curricular Relevance by Course
and Province
Alberta
British Columbia and Yukon Territory
Manitoba
Ontario
Québec
Saskatchewan
APEF
WCP
Materials/Resources Required
Computers with Internet access.
Coloured card/paper for timeline and paper backing.
Student Work Sheet
Suggested Assessment Criteria
Extension Work Sheet
Links
Early Canadiana Online: Canada in the Making
http://www.canadiana.org/
Essay writing resources can be found in the Writing An Essay
unit on ECO:
URL: http://www.canadiana.org/eco/lesson_plans/
topictoconc.htm
Other links can be found in the Student Work Sheet.
Previous Knowledge
Students will need
-
An understanding of Web navigation symbols, tools and terminology,
particularly the tools used in ECO.
-
Familiarity with research and presentation skills.
-
A basic understanding of the basic shape of Canadian history,
especially from the 18th century on.
Lesson Opener
Ask students what the biggest issue in governing Canada is today.
Possibilities include: separatism, regionalism, division of powers
between levels of government, etc. Discuss:
Draw them to the conclusion that the issues we face today have
deep roots that can be traced back in history.
Procedure
Step 1
Hand out Student Work Sheets and introduce students to the ECO Canada
In the Making Web site. Read the assignment and discuss.
Step 2
Assign each group a particular document to read and examine. They
may look at background material on the ECO site or other sites.
Step 3
Students search for the required information for each document.
They should discuss answers and try to make balanced comments about
the documents. Extra credit could be given for comments about the
documents not specifically identified on the Student Work Sheet.
Step 4
When all information has been gathered, drafted, reviewed and printed
as a final draft, groups should make short presentations to the
class.
Step 5
Work should be assembled on the timeline. All work can be collated
and used for the extension essay. Students could assess one another's
work using a rubric created as a class.
Summary
Review consensus: Considering the shape of Canada and its politics
today, which document has the greatest impact on:
Evaluation
See the Suggested Assessment Criteria.
Homework/Extension
Hold a debate: Considering the shape of Canada and its politics
today, which document has the greatest impact on:
Students can champion their document or any other. Reach a consensus
and take a vote.
|
