Critical Challenges in Law and Government

This series of resources supports students in thinking critically about the operations and policies of various levels of government. Students learn about civics in engaging and meaningful ways as they assume the roles of historical and contemporary political leaders in negotiating solutions and enacting legislation. The activities are complemented by extensive blackline masters and assessment rubrics.

Middle/Senior

Canada’s Constitutional Crisis – A Simulation

Editors: Phyllis S. and Aric Hayes
Overview
Price: $ 27.95

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In this 10-15 hour simulation, students are delegates to a contemporary constitutional conference. They must develop, negotiate, revise, and ultimately decide whether or not to support proposed amendments to Canada’s constitution. Although the constitutional issues can be modified, the prepared materials focus on four topics:

• cultural diversity and equity;
• language protection;
• aboriginal rights;
• and federal provincial power sharing.

(110 pp.)

ISBN 978-0-86491-196-3

This title is Ministry approved for use in the following subjects, grade levels and provinces. Links provide curricular connections where available:

Civics: 11 (British Columbia)

History: 11 (Manitoba)

Parliament in Session Simulation

Editor: James Doyle
Overview
Price: $27.95

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In this 8-10 hour simulation, students assume the role of legislators attempting to secure or defeat passage of seven pieces of legislation through the parliament of a fictional country. Students experience the behind-the-scenes operations of a legislative assembly as they defend or attack proposed bills, negotiate compromises, and test party allegiances. (164 pp.)

ISBN 978-0-86491-200-5

This title is Ministry approved for use in the following subjects, grade levels and provinces. Links provide curricular connections where available:

Civics: 11 (BC)

Re-enacting confederation Simulation

Editors: Greg Buium and Janet Thompson
Overview
Price: $ 19.50
This publication is only available in digital (PDF) format.

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This 8-13 hour simulation, which draws students into the complexities and compromises facing the fathers of Confederation, can be used as a cornerstone of a unit of study on this period in Canadian history. As representatives of a British North American colony at a hypothetical 1864 Ottawa Conference, students decide whether or not to join in confederation under the conditions outlined in a draft British North America Act, which they have helped negotiate. (100 pp.)

ISBN 978-0-84691-194-7

This title is Ministry approved for use in the following subjects, grade levels and provinces. Links provide curricular connections where available:

Civics: 11 (BC)