CBC Archives

Engage students in a discussion of the different experiences of Canadians in the 20th century. Have students cite key events, such as the world wars, the Depression, or the repatriation of the Constitution, and describe how Canadians in different regions or groups responded to or were affected by the events.

Have students visit the topic Tuberculosis: Old Disease, Continuing Threat on the CBC Radio and Television Archives Web site and view Clips #2, 3, and 5, as well as the Additional Clips “Inuit go south for tuberculosis treatment,” “Aboard the M.V. Christmas Seal,” and “Former TB patients revisit Fort San.”

Have small groups of students prepare role-plays to present the different experiences of Canadians: those afflicted with TB and those dealing with the sick. The presentations may be set in the past or set in the present, looking back with hindsight. Ensure that the groups cover a variety of Canadian locales and social groups, including the experiences of First Nations peoples, immigrants, Newfoundlanders, and people in more populous or developed regions. Have students present their role-plays.

After each presentation, allow students to question the presenters while they are still in role. Discuss what authorities did well and where they could have improved. Encourage students to comment on whether the nation’s response to tuberculosis in the middle years of the century supports or conflicts with their previous understanding of Canada during this time period, and why.

As a class, students can create a T-chart with the headings Challenges and Possible Responses to help them consider the implications of an infectious disease outbreak, such as Canada experienced with SARS, in the near future. When the chart is complete, students can re-read it and consider how Canadians might view it 50 years from now. Ask: What actions do you think future generations might criticize? Can those actions be rewritten and still be valid as possible responses? What new challenges and responses come to mind?