CBC Archives

Before they begin work on this activity, students will need to define both Canada’s Criminal Code and Planned Parenthood in Canada. Consider having students research the information for a homework assignment, then bring a workable definition to class the next day. Alternatively, provide class time for students to find the information. As a class, agree on a workable definition of each term.

Have students read the information about, and then view, Clip 4 from the topic The Birth Control Pill on the CBC Radio and Television Archives Web site. As they read, students should note the key facts and issues that are presented.

Divide the class into five groups. As a class, develop criteria for the visual display that each group will prepare. Assign each group one of the key figures mentioned in the clip: Dorothea Palmer, Harold Fine, A.R. Kaufman, Barbara and George Cadbury and Dr. Carl Djerrasi. Have each group member research the person’s life. Group members will then gather, pool their information, and create a visual display that tells about their individual and his or her role in the history of birth control in Canada.

Have students share their visual display with the class, highlighting three to five key pieces of information. Students should be prepared to ask and answer questions. Display the visuals in the classroom.

Students can role-play an interview with the figure they studied, or with another key figure that interests them. Questions should focus on that person’s role in the history of birth control in Canada