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Lesson Plan: Closing Public Access to Rideau Hall
Lesson Plan
Before Exploring
Have a class discussion about public access to places such as Parliament Hill, the Supreme Court of Canada, the prime minister's residence, the Official Residence of the leader of the opposition. In particular, comment on the changes students know have happened since September 11, 2001.
Outline the Opportunity
Have students review thoroughly the clip titled "Closing off Rideau Hall" on Jeanne Sauvé, a Woman of Firsts on the CBC Digital Archives website. They should read all five pages of the Did You Know? section as well. Following their research, assign each student either the number 1 or 2.
Students with the number 1 will develop arguments for the statement: The governor general had every right to close the grounds of Rideau Hall to the public.
Students with the number 2 will development arguments against the statement. Invite groups to discuss their position in preparation for debate.
Revisit and Reflect
Hold an informal debate on the topic. Following the debate ask students to come to their own conclusion on the topic.
Extension
Students can write a letter to the
editor expressing an opinion on the right to access Parliament Hill, including
the House of Commons and the Senate. Students may take any position but it must
be thoroughly defended.
Assessment Tip
Use the rubric on the download sheet Closing Public Access to Rideau Hall to assess student work, or encourage self- or peer-assessment.