CBC Archives

Write the word “rebel” on the board and have the students provide you with definitions and related word and terms. As they do so, create a word web on the board. Once you have finished, discuss the concept of rebellion with the class and introduce the term “hippie” to the discussion. Ask the class what they already know about the hippie movement and explain that they are going to investigate it further.

Direct students to the topic Hippie Society: The Youth Rebellion on the CBC Radio and Television Archives Web site. Students should view Clips #2, 4, and 5, and the Additional Clip “Meet the Yorkville cast of characters.” Remind students to read the Did You Know? section for each clip as well. As they explore the clips, students should take note of important facts and dates about the background, philosophy, and actions of the hippie movement. Using the information they have gathered, students prepare an expository paragraph detailing what they have learned.

Invite students to share their paragraphs with the class. Using all of the information gathered, create a class list to highlight the background, philosophy, and actions of the hippie movement, as well as any other relevant information.

Students can explore the site further to find examples of the music, clothing, art, and writing of the time period. Challenge them to find examples of hippie culture in today’s youth culture.