CBC Archives

Write “prima ballerina” on the board or chart paper. Discuss this expression with the students by asking questions, such as: What language is this? What does it mean in English? Do you know other expressions that include “prima” (for example, prima donna) or “prime” (for example, prime minister)? Ask the students who they would consider the top ten “prima” Canadians in several fields, such as athletics, entertainment, and the arts. Have them brainstorm what they know about ballerinas in general. Introduce Karen Kain's name and record anything the students have heard about her.

Direct students to Karen Kain, Prima Ballerina on the CBC Radio and Television Archives Web site in order for them to verify, refute, and add to the information from the brainstorming session about Karen Kain. They are to take notes in point form using the “5W’s and How” to guide their research about Karen Kain.

Share and record on chart paper the biographical information about Karen Kain. Ask students the following questions: What do you consider extraordinary about Karen Kain? Why? What do you consider ordinary about Karen Kain? Why?

Individually, students can write a paragraph about Karen Kain that they would consider suitable to be included in a biographical publication about famous Canadians.