CBC Archives

Have students share with the class what they already know about Acadia (French communities in New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island). They will be learning more about Acadia and its literature through the CBC Digital Archives website.

With a partner, have students view the clips 'Do you have any stories?' and The unknown Acadian, including the Did You Know sections, on the topic Antonine Maillet, Acadian Avenger on the CBC Digital Archives website. They will take point-form notes regarding the history and literature of Acadia, particularly as it pertains to Maillet. Using the information they have gathered, have students write a one-paragraph summary of Antonine Maillet and her place in Acadian literature and history. The paragraph needs an introductory sentence, three to four sentences for proof, and a concluding sentence. Have students peer-edit their partner’s work.

Students submit their paragraphs for assessment. As a class, discuss why Maillet can be referred to as an “avenger.”

Assessment Tip
In their paragraphs, students will use a topic sentence, supporting sentences to develop the topic and connecting words to link; employ critical and creative thinking skills; use correct grammar, word usage, spelling, and punctuation; apply the stages of the writing process; construct complete and correct compound and complex sentences; select words and phrases appropriate to formal style, to suit the purpose and audience; use the single controlling idea to structure the paragraphs.

With their partner, students discuss how Acadian culture — its geography, language, folklore, and traditions — shaped Maillet’s writing. Students can form their own conclusions and write a summary in their notebooks.