Discussion

1. Arrange the class into a circle of chairs so that you are all facing each other.
2. After completing one of the previous activities (Truth vs Lie, Know the Terms, Jeopardy) and reflecting on the story you watched, discuss as a class what democracy means to you and how it impacts our world.
3. Your teacher will stay out of the conversation; they are just there to observe. Do not direct any questions to them.
4. It’s not necessary to raise your hand during the discussion, just have a conversation with your peers. Let it flow naturally.
5. When someone asks a question, or provides an observation, build your discussion around that comment first before starting a new idea.
6. At the end of the conversation, summarize what you discussed.
7. Make sure everyone has an opportunity to speak.

Questions to get you started:

• These questions are just a guide in case you are stuck.

1. How do you define democracy?
2. Does politics impact your life?
3. How do political decisions shape the state of Canada’s biodiversity?
4. What do you like about our political system? What do you dislike?
5. Do you think our electoral system is representative? Why or why not?
6. Beyond voting, what other avenues exist to engage with the political process?
7. What does good citizenship look like to you?

Strategies for Classroom Discussion

Questions to keep in mind throughout the course:

1. What is the one issue you’d like to address in your community, province or country that could help balance the needs of people and nature?
2. What is one roadblock that prevents this issue from being resolved?
3. What would you do to overcome this roadblock and create that better balance?