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11-12
Comparing Lévesque’s Speeches
Project type: Assignment
Related topic:
René Lévesque's Separatist Fight
René Lévesque's Separatist Fight
Subjects
History
Media Studies
Political Science
English Language Arts
Media Studies
Political Science
English Language Arts
Summary
Students listen to and compare René Lévesque’s speeches following the Parti Québécois victory in 1976 and the referendum loss in 1980.
Duration
2 lessons
Purpose
To analyze and evaluate the rhetoric of a famous Canadian politician
Before Exploring
From the topic René Lévesque’s Separatist Fight on the CBC Radio and Television Archives Web site, play a small part of either René Lévesque’s speech after the PQ Victory in 1976 from Clip #7 or his speech on the evening of the defeated referendum in 1980 from Clip #9. Ask students to comment on the emotional atmosphere of the event. What is happening? What is the mood?
Outline the Opportunity
Have students view and listen in full to the two clips of these famous Canadian historical events. Students will compare and contrast the speeches, the events, and the words and demeanour of the speaker, René Lévesque. Students can use the download sheet Comparing Speeches to record their impressions.
Revisit and Reflect
Invite students to share their impressions in an informal discussion. Then ask:
What role does an audience play in the delivery of a great speech?
What elements are necessary for a political speech to be considered great?
What was your reaction to these two important speeches?
What qualities did Lévesque have as a public speaker?
What current public figures do you consider great speakers? Why?
Extension
Students can write a speech during which a future separatist leader announces a referendum victory.
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