Based on the story Canada at a Crossroads: Chapter 5
Grade Level: 9–12
Time Required: 80-120 minutes
Big Idea: Democracy is not self-sustaining. It depends on informed, engaged citizens who can think critically, evaluate information, and act responsibly, especially during times of rapid change and uncertainty.
Key Terms: Liberal democracy, rule of law, populism, civic engagement, accountability, misinformation, surveillance capitalism, foreign interference, democratic backsliding
Learning Objectives
Students will be able to:
- Explain what liberal democracy is and why it matters in Canada
- Identify forces that contribute to democratic decline (ex. misinformation, inequality, fear, disengagement)
- Analyze the role of individuals – especially young people, in sustaining democracy
- Make connections between democracy, technology, history, and global events
- Reflect on their own responsibilities as citizens
Introduction
Discuss the question, first with a partner, then as a class: Can a country lose its democracy without a coup or war? How?
Story Exploration
Students read or listen to Canada at a Crossroads: Chapter 5, focusing on these key ideas:
- What liberal democracy is (and is not)
- Why Canada is relatively strong, but not immune
- The idea that democracy erodes slowly through habits, apathy, and lowered standards
Explain these ideas. Give examples if you can!
Group Discussion
Break the class into five groups total. Each group tackles one theme:
- Citizen responsibility and accountability
- Populism: strengths and dangers
- Social media, misinformation, and democracy
- Economic inequality and political anger
- Lessons from history and why they matter today
For each theme:
- Summarize the theme in 2–3 sentences
- Identify one quote or idea that stood out
- Answer: Why does this matter for Canada right now?
Each group can share key insights with the class and discuss any additional ideas relating to those five themes.
Whole-Class Discussion
Create a respectful and engaging discussion and start by reflecting on these questions:
- Why do strong institutions still fail if citizens disengage?
- Is efficiency more important than freedom? Why or why not?
- How does social media shape what we believe is true?
- What responsibilities do young people have in a democracy?
Reflection
Students write a paragraph responding to one prompt:
- One warning sign of democratic decline I will watch for is…
- One action I can take to strengthen democracy is…
- One idea from this chapter that challenged my thinking was…
Extensions
Science
Systems Thinking & Democracy: Students compare democracy to a natural system (ecosystem, climate system, immune system):
- What happens when one part fails?
- What creates resilience?
Outcome: Diagram or short explanation connecting science systems to democratic systems.
Social Studies
Democracy Stress Test: Students examine a real or hypothetical scenario (ex. limits on protest, attacks on courts, election misinformation) and assess:
- Which democratic principles are at risk?
- Who should respond?
- What could citizens do?
Outcome: Short written analysis or presentation.
English
Rhetoric, Truth, and Persuasion: Students analyze a speech, post, or article and identify:
- Emotional appeals vs. evidence
- Use of fear, simplification, or blame
Outcome: Analytical paragraph or creative response rewriting the message more responsibly.
Art/Visual Storytelling
Democracy Through Art: Students create a visual artwork, poster, short video, or performance that represents:
- Democratic decline
- Civic responsibility
- The cost of apathy or the power of engagement
Outcome: Artist statement explaining choices and message.
Careers
Citizenship & the Future of Work: Students explore how democratic health affects:
- Job opportunities
- Innovation
- Personal freedom and safety
Outcome: Reflection connecting civic engagement to their future goals and values.