Overall Objective
In this unit students will acquire an in-depth understanding and appreciation for the reasons why people immigrate to Canada. Although political or economic factors are often mentioned, every story is unique and often inspiring.
Grade level
Advanced 9–12 and beyond. This unit can be adapted to younger grades and different courses of study in various Canadian provinces and territories.
Content Areas
History
Social Studies
English
Language Arts
Media Studies
Math
Materials Required
Access to a computer lab, Internet connection, data projector, flip chart paper or whiteboard, paper and pencils, map of the world, push pins, some recent political cartoons.
Summary
The goal of this unit is to present stories of individuals who have left their country of origin to settle in Canada. Students learn about the push-pull factors* that uproot families and the reasons that Canada becomes their preferred destination. Some must overcome overwhelming obstacles on their journey to a new life. Film excerpts, CBC archival materials and charts and graphs on Canadian immigration will help develop an appreciation for the variety of reasons people immigrate to Canada.
*push factors: reasons individuals leave a country of origin
 pull factors: factors that may draw an individual to Canada
