The goal of this assignment is for you to learn that the foundation of the country of Canada that we enjoy today was laid down by the people who lived in the 19th century and before. We all stand on the shoulders of ancestors who came before us - from all over the world.
view a 19th c map of the world
discussion:
- What do you know about 19th century Canada? What are some important dates and events?
- What do you know about your own family history?
- Where was your family living in 1867, when Canada became a nation?
- Is your family indigenous or of a particular ethnic group?
3. What generation Canadian are you? (It is commonly accepted that a generation averages about 25 years—from the birth of a parent to the birth of a child.)
Pre activity in class:
Draw a family tree with names, dates and as far back in the family as you remember.
Homework: Interview your parents, grandparents, any family members
- Ask them to help you fill in the parts of the tree that you left blank. Please add names, dates and places, as far back in the family as you can record.
- Interview family members, asking the following questions.
Interview Questions for your Family
What country (countries) did our family come from originally?
- Do we belong to a particular indigenous or ethnic group?
- Do you know why they left the old country?
- What language(s) did they speak?
- Do you know how they travelled to Canada? Do you know if they suffered hardships along the way? Please describe.
- Were there historic events that compelled them to leave their country? Please name them.
- Once the family arrived in Canada, where did they live? Please name approximate towns, cities and provinces if possible. If they moved around a lot in Canada, do you know why?