Canada at a Crossroads – Lessons from Nature (Teacher Resource)

Grade Level: 9–12
Time Required: 60–75 minutes (excluding video Canada at a Crossroads: Chapter 1)
Subject Connections: Social Studies, Environmental Science, English, Careers, Art

Learning Objectives

By the end of this lesson, students will:

  • Understand how natural metaphors (marten, glaciers, ecosystems) can reflect Canada’s challenges and opportunities.
  • Explore the interconnectedness of environment, economy, and democracy.
  • Reflect on Canada’s current crossroads and consider how young people can shape the future.
  • Practice critical thinking and discussion skills through analysis and application.

Materials

Lesson Outline

1. Intro (5 minutes)

  • Show an image of a marten, a glacier, and a forest ecosystem.
  • Ask: “What do these have in common?”
  • Introduce: Each symbolizes challenges and opportunities facing Canada today.

2. Reading & Summary (10 minutes)

  • Provide a short summary of the story (or let students read short excerpts).
  • Teacher recap:
    • Marten → resilience, but limited strategy.
    • Glaciers → buffering systems under threat.
    • Ecosystems & society → interconnected crises of biodiversity, democracy, and community.

3. Group Discussion (15 minutes)
In small groups, students answer:

  1. How does the marten metaphor relate to Canada’s reliance on old advantages?
  2. What happens when the “glacial buffers” in society melt away?
  3. How are biodiversity loss and democratic decline connected?
  4. Which of these metaphors do you think best explains Canada’s current challenges? Why?

4. Whole Class Reflection (10 minutes)

  • Groups share highlights and comment on other groups observations.
  • Teacher draws connections: resilience, limits, interconnectedness, and the idea of being “at a crossroads.”

5. Application (15–20 minutes)
Students choose one option:

  • Visual: Create a quick sketch/poster showing Canada’s current situation using a natural metaphor.
  • Written: Write a short reflection on how the stories connect and what lessons they teach about Canada’s future.
  • Debate/Discussion: Take sides on the question: “Is Canada prepared for the crossroads ahead?”

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