View the story “Canada at a Crossroads: Chapter 1“
- View the images of a marten, a glacier, and a forest ecosystem. What do these things have in common?
- Listen to/read the summary of the story ‘Canada at a Crossroads: Chapter 1’ and discuss what the marten, glaciers and the relationship between ecosystems and society represents.
- Get into small groups and answer the following questions
- How does the marten metaphor relate to Canada’s reliance on old advantages?
- What happens when the “glacial buffers” in society melt away?
- How are biodiversity loss and democratic decline connected?
- Which of these metaphors do you think best explains Canada’s current challenges? Why?
- Share the highlights from your discussion with the rest of the class and add any further observations. What does ‘at a crossroads’ mean in the context of this story?
- Choose one option:
- Create a quick sketch/poster showing Canada’s current situation using a natural metaphor.
- Write a short reflection on how the stories connect and what lessons they teach about Canada’s future.
- Take sides on the question: “Is Canada prepared for the crossroads ahead?”


