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.
Pre activity 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?
- Does your family belong to a particular ethnic group?
- When did your family immigrate to Canada? In which century did they immigrate?
- Aboriginal peoples who arrived 10, 000 years ago across the ice/land bridge from Siberia
- Early arrivals: in the 17th or 18th century (primarily French & English)
4. 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 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?