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Tell students that Karen Kain has been referred to by some as the “foremost dancer in the country.” Explain that Kain's mother wanted an activity for her 6-year-old daughter that was within walking distance of their home. There happened to be a ballet school nearby and so Karen was enrolled. One reporter later referred to this as the “serendipity of life.” Discuss the meaning of “serendipity of life.” Ask students to reflect on what they know about Kain's successful career and then comment on whether they believe “serendipity” played a role in her success and, if so, to what extent. Have them discuss any other factors that they think would have contributed to her successful dancing career.

Direct students to Clips #1 to #8 on Karen Kain, Prima Ballerina on the CBC Radio and Television Archives Web site. In groups of four, they research Kain's career highlights and challenges and the personal qualities that led her to become the principal ballerina of the National Ballet of Canada and the “foremost dancer in the country.” When the research is completed, students compile the information and make a timeline about Karen Kain's career highlights and challenges. Under each career event, students are to list the personal qualities that assisted Karen Kain in achieving that career goal.

Groups can share their timelines and determine what they believe is Karen Kain’s career highlight and her most difficult challenge. After all groups have presented, revisit the term “serendipity of life” and ask students to re-examine whether or not, and to what extent, “serendipity” played a role in Kain's career. Pose the challenge: If Karen Kain’s mother had not chosen ballet for her daughter, do you think Karen would still be famous? Use the personal qualities listed in your timeline to justify your answer.

Students can write a reflection about a skill they have or an activity they perform very well. They may wish to consider these questions:

What personal qualities do you possess that help you perform the skill or activity well?

How did you go about obtaining the skill or learning how to perform the activity?

What do you do to improve it?

What role, if any, has the “serendipity of life” played in your pursuit of this skill or activity?