CBC Archives

Have students discuss and record examples of Canadian symbols or icons, such as the beaver, Anne of Green Gables, Alanis Morissette, the parliament buildings, the CN tower, and hockey. Have them brainstorm “Canadian” sports, for example, those invented by Canadians (such as five-pin bowling and basketball) or played by many Canadians (such as hockey and baseball). Tell them that Canada has a national summer sport and have them suggest what it is. Record anything students know about lacrosse, including any information about how it was first played by the native peoples, how it has evolved over time, how the game is played, names of famous lacrosse players, and their own personal experiences with the game.

Direct students to the topic Lacrosse: A History of Canada's Game on the CBC Radio and Television Archives Web site. In pairs, students can browse Clips #1 through #10, the Did You Know? sections, and the Web link to The National Lacrosse League’s official Web site.” Emphasize to students the historical significance of the game as it evolved to its current status. They record all dates and significant developments in the game, and then use the download sheet The Development of Lacrosse to create a timeline.

Gather students to compare and contrast their timelines. They can ask and answer questions. Ask: Did you all record the same elements of the development of the sport? What do think are the most essential elements?

Pairs of students can prepare questions and answers for a role-play between a journalist and a sports commentator with the focus of the interview being the significance of lacrosse in Canada. They can act out their interviews, and volunteers can perform them for the class.