CBC Archives

Have the students write a journal entry about the word “encouragement.” Ask them to define the word and then to describe individuals who have encouraged them in their lives. Write the following definition on the board as the students are writing.

noun

1. the expression of approval and support [ant: discouragement]
2. the act of giving hope or support to someone [syn: boost]
3. the feeling of being encouraged

In pairs, have students examine Clip #1 on Jeanne Sauvé, a Woman of Firsts on the CBC Radio and Television Archives Web site. Students will create a timeline of Sauvé’s life from 1922 to 1952. The timeline should include information from all nine pages in the Did You Know? section. At the bottom of the timeline, have students answer the questions: Who and what were the encouraging influences in Sauvé’s early life? How did they influence her?

As a class, discuss students’ responses and whether the students think Sauvé would have been able to achieve so much in her career if she had not had these influences in her early life.

Using the acrostic poem format, write the word “ENCOURAGEMENT” down the side of the board. Have students create individual acrostic poems about people and events in their lives that have encouraged them in some way. You may want to show a sample before students begin.

Enabling me to see the bright side of things
Noting my successes
Commenting nicely on my report card
Olivia Smith – most supportive teacher
Understanding me
Really supporting me
Always there to help
Getting me going
Extra special help to finish something
Many kind words of support
Encouraging me always!
Nathaniel Brown – he made a difference
Telling me “You can do it!”