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11-12
The Queen of Canada?
Project type: Assignment
Related topic:
Canada's New Queen
Canada's New Queen
Subjects
History
Political Science
Political Science
Summary
Students investigate and debate the pros and cons of the continuation of the monarchy in Canada.
Duration
3 lessons
Purpose
To examine the role of the monarchy in Canada, to conduct a formal debate
PDF
Before Exploring
Have students discuss and list the elements of a formal debate. Students may require direction to ensure that they follow all rules and include all necessary procedures. Students can visit http://csdf.freeservers.com/core.html to learn how to conduct a formal debate.
Outline the Opportunity
Students will be preparing formal debates arguing both for and against the continuation of the monarchy in Canada. Working in pairs, direct students to the topic Canada's New Queen on the CBC Radio and Television Archives Web site. Direct students to review the Links available on the topic, as well as The Monarchist League of Canada at http://www.monarchist.ca/. Students should take notes supporting both sides of the debate. Remind students to cite all sources.
Revisit and Reflect
Organize a forum so that all pairs can participate. Each student should have the opportunity to debate both for and against the continuation of the monarchy in Canada.
Following the debates, hold a class discussion to debrief. Ask:
Which arguments were persuasive and why?
Was any argument persuasive enough to cause you to take a different position? How did that feel?
What challenges did you experience in debating a position you did not necessarily share?
Extension
Students can write in their journals about how they would react if the monarchy no longer played a role in Canada.
