Grade Two Social Studies, Unit 2: A Community in the Past
Students will develop an understanding of how communities were developed and functioned in the past by comparing their present day community.
Same Difference
Live action book-reading mixed with animated images that addresses the sensitive and sometime divisive issues of beauty and identity through Lida and Lisa, two first cousins who find themselves at odds with each other over their physical differences. With the help of their wise grandmother, the girls soon realize that their bond is deeper than what they see and our differences are what make us beautiful.
Live action book-reading mixed with animated images that addresses the sensitive and sometime divisive issues of beauty and identity through Lida and Lisa, two first cousins who find themselves at odds with each other over their physical differences. With the help of their wise grandmother, the girls soon realize that their bond is deeper than what they see and our differences are what make us beautiful.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2.3 - Appreciate the importance of collaboration and living in harmony
- 2.2.4 - Appreciate how connections to a community contribute to one's identity - Suggested use:
- Great hook to use to talk about no matter how we look, we are all beautiful and unique, even if we happen to look different than our own family members - Accessibility:
- Transcription available
- ASL interpretation of book available
Kwanzaa is an African-inspired holiday
Did you know that African-Canadians celebrate Kwanzaa every year, starting on Dec. 26? For seven days, they get together with their families, eat African food, dance, drum, and celebrate the seven principles of Kwanzaa. Even though the holiday is based on African traditions and culture, it’s not celebrated in Africa. It was invented by an American man from Kenya in the 1960s.
Did you know that African-Canadians celebrate Kwanzaa every year, starting on Dec. 26? For seven days, they get together with their families, eat African food, dance, drum, and celebrate the seven principles of Kwanzaa. Even though the holiday is based on African traditions and culture, it’s not celebrated in Africa. It was invented by an American man from Kenya in the 1960s.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2.3 - Appreciate the importance of collaboration and living in harmony
- 2.2.4 - Appreciate how connections to a community contribute to one's identity - Suggested use:
- Learn about Kwanzaa and its traditions. Ideal to use this close to Kwanzaa - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Eid Mubarak!
Eid Mubarak! Join Tony, Janaye and families from across the country as they celebrate Eid.
Eid Mubarak! Join Tony, Janaye and families from across the country as they celebrate Eid.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2.3 - Appreciate the importance of collaboration and living in harmony
- 2.2.4 - Appreciate how connections to a community contribute to one's identity - Suggested use:
- Celebrate Eid and its traditions, where the students talk about the importance of giving back to the less fortunate, make food and other widespread activities. Ideal to use this close to Eid (note: there are two Eid celebrations in a year, research to find out when this celebration takes place) - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Chinese New Year, kids style
Chinese people around the world are ringing in the new year. Hear from some kids in Canada about how they celebrate the holiday.
Chinese people around the world are ringing in the new year. Hear from some kids in Canada about how they celebrate the holiday.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2.3 - Appreciate the importance of collaboration and living in harmony
- 2.2.4 - Appreciate how connections to a community contribute to one's identity - Suggested use:
- Celebrate Chinese New Year and its traditions, where students can clean the classroom, make food and other widespread activities. Ideal to use this close to Chinese New Year. Also keep in mind that several Asian countries celebrate this holiday and they refer to it as Lunar New Year - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Lunchbox Rap Battle: Diwali
Get up, jump up, get down - Diwali’s here with a fresh new sound.
Get up, jump up, get down - Diwali’s here with a fresh new sound.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2.3 - Appreciate the importance of collaboration and living in harmony
- 2.2.4 - Appreciate how connections to a community contribute to one's identity - Suggested use:
- Celebrate Diwali and its traditions. Ideal to use this close to Diwali - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Lunchbox Rap Battle: Vaisakhi
Celebrate Vaisakhi with Tony and Janaye as they dance their way into a brand new solar new year.
Celebrate Vaisakhi with Tony and Janaye as they dance their way into a brand new solar new year.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2.3 - Appreciate the importance of collaboration and living in harmony
- 2.2.4 - Appreciate how connections to a community contribute to one's identity - Suggested use:
- Celebrate Vaisakhi and its traditions. Ideal to use this close to Vaisakhi - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Lunchbox Rap Battle: Rosh Hashanah
Celebrate Rosh Hashanah with this rap.
Celebrate Rosh Hashanah with this rap.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2.3 - Appreciate the importance of collaboration and living in harmony
- 2.2.4 - Appreciate how connections to a community contribute to one's identity - Suggested use:
- Celebrate Rosh Hashanah and its traditions. Ideal to use this close to Rosh Hashanah - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Hanukkah Dos and Don'ts
Who knew there were rules for Hanukkah?
Who knew there were rules for Hanukkah?
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2.1 - Appreciate how stories of the past connect individuals and communities to the present
- 2.2.3 - Appreciate the importance of collaboration and living in harmony - Suggested use:
- Celebrate Hanukkah and its traditions. Ideal to use this close to Hanukkah - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Nowruz: How 300 million people celebrate Persian New Year
About 300 million people across the world celebrate Persian New Year - or Nowruz.
About 300 million people across the world celebrate Persian New Year - or Nowruz.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2.1 - Appreciate how stories of the past connect individuals and communities to the present
- 2.2.3 - Appreciate the importance of collaboration and living in harmony - Suggested use:
- Celebrate Nowruz and its traditions. Ideal to use this close to Nowruz (March 20) - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Lili's Persian New Year
When Lola 'ruins' Lili's Nowruz party, Lili discovers a new way of looking at her little sister and makes a fresh start with her for the New Year.
When Lola 'ruins' Lili's Nowruz party, Lili discovers a new way of looking at her little sister and makes a fresh start with her for the New Year.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2.1 - Appreciate how stories of the past connect individuals and communities to the present
- 2.2.3 - Appreciate the importance of collaboration and living in harmony - Suggested use:
- Celebrate Nowruz and its traditions. Ideal to use this close to Nowruz (March 20) - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
From Far Away
Growing up in Canada, it’s hard to imagine what life is like in a war-torn country. Adjusting to a new home is a Herculean feat, especially when you don’t speak the language. Meet Saoussan, a seven-year-old girl from Beirut who is doing just that since moving to Canada in search of a safer life. This is a film that will open kids’ eyes to different realities and encourage them to be kind to others.
Growing up in Canada, it’s hard to imagine what life is like in a war-torn country. Adjusting to a new home is a Herculean feat, especially when you don’t speak the language. Meet Saoussan, a seven-year-old girl from Beirut who is doing just that since moving to Canada in search of a safer life. This is a film that will open kids’ eyes to different realities and encourage them to be kind to others.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2.1 - Appreciate how stories of the past connect individuals and communities to the present
- 2.2.3 - Appreciate the importance of collaboration and living in harmony - Suggested use:
- Use as a hook to discuss how Alberta/Canada has many people from all over the world
- Great talking point for students to share their own experiences of moving to a new city/province/country
- Students who may not have experienced this can think about going to a new school, joining a new team etc. What kinds of feelings did/would arise when you're in a brand new community or space? - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Lights For Gita
Every culture comes with celebrations and rituals, and this film teaches all about the Hindu festival of lights, Diwali, while also showing how hard change can be. Gita is anxious to celebrate Diwali in her new Canadian home and invites her friends to light the diya and see the fireworks. But her plans are thwarted by an ice storm and she is left longing for her celebrations back home. Through her story, kids will see what it’s like to leave behind everything you know and love, but still create new traditions that are just as meaningful.
Every culture comes with celebrations and rituals, and this film teaches all about the Hindu festival of lights, Diwali, while also showing how hard change can be. Gita is anxious to celebrate Diwali in her new Canadian home and invites her friends to light the diya and see the fireworks. But her plans are thwarted by an ice storm and she is left longing for her celebrations back home. Through her story, kids will see what it’s like to leave behind everything you know and love, but still create new traditions that are just as meaningful.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2.4 - Appreciate how connections to a community contribute to one's identity
- 2.2.5 - Appreciate how cultural and linguistic exchanges connect one community to another - Suggested use:
- Use to talk about how traditions/celebrations are meaningful in many different religions, cultures, communities etc.
- Have students reflect on their own traditions/celebrations - what makes them meaningful? How do they celebrate these traditions/celebrations? Teacher should be prepared to acknowledge that some children may not feel personally connected to their culture/religion/community etc. If so, relate to different celebrations that students may partake in at school, with friends etc. - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Alaa
An animated stop motion true story of a young Syrian boy’s experience in coming to Canada starring Alaa Khalaf.
An animated stop motion true story of a young Syrian boy’s experience in coming to Canada starring Alaa Khalaf.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2.5 - Appreciate how cultural and linguistic exchanges connect one community to another
- 2.2.7 - Examine how the community being studied has changed. Cause for change/ community member impact on change/ population change/ Indigenous and Francophone presence in present day - Suggested use:
- Use as a hook to discuss the challenges of moving to a new country and the importance of empathy, respect, and kindness to all citizens, regardless of where they may have been born - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
The Chinese Violin
In this animated short, a young girl and her father move from China to Canada, bringing only their Chinese violin along for the journey. As they face the challenge of starting fresh in a new place, the music of the violin connects them to the life they left behind and guides the girl towards a musical future.
In this animated short, a young girl and her father move from China to Canada, bringing only their Chinese violin along for the journey. As they face the challenge of starting fresh in a new place, the music of the violin connects them to the life they left behind and guides the girl towards a musical future.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2.1 - Appreciate how stories of the past connect individuals and communities to the present
- 2.2.4 - Appreciate how connections to a community contribute to one's identity - Suggested use:
- Journal entry about an item that may be special to them and their family and why this item is significant to their family, like the violin in the story - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Justin Time
Follow a Canadian boy named Justin and pals as they travel back in time. They solve real life problems (like teamwork or sharing) in a different historical setting and then return back home “just in time.” The settings range from Ancient Mexico to 17th century India to the Swiss Alps in the 50s and Ancient China in the 8th century.
Follow a Canadian boy named Justin and pals as they travel back in time. They solve real life problems (like teamwork or sharing) in a different historical setting and then return back home “just in time.” The settings range from Ancient Mexico to 17th century India to the Swiss Alps in the 50s and Ancient China in the 8th century.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2.6 - Analyze how the (past) community being studied emerged. Origins of the community/ reason for establishment (fur trade/ etc/ characteristics and unique traits/ and community member contributions
- 2.2.3 - Appreciate the importance of collaboration and living in harmony - Suggested use:
- Use weekly as a way to expose children to various time periods, countries, and cultures - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Roses Sing On New Snow
This beautifully animated film tells the story of Maylin, a young Chinese woman forced to cook in her father’s restaurant, only to have all the credit, and tips, given to her brothers. A woman’s place in society differs depending on your cultural background, and it may be an eye opener for some kids to see how Maylin is treated. When given her moment at the end, she stands up for herself and sets an example for every little girl — and boy — watching.
This beautifully animated film tells the story of Maylin, a young Chinese woman forced to cook in her father’s restaurant, only to have all the credit, and tips, given to her brothers. A woman’s place in society differs depending on your cultural background, and it may be an eye opener for some kids to see how Maylin is treated. When given her moment at the end, she stands up for herself and sets an example for every little girl — and boy — watching.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2.3 - Appreciate the importance of collaboration and living in harmony
- 2.2.5 - Appreciate how cultural and linguistic exchanges connect one community to another - Suggested use:
- Students could remember a time that they were treated unfairly. Then, they could think about how they could treat others in their classrooms, homes, and school fairly - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Jaime Lo, Small And Shy
This film has a lot to teach about sacrifice and the fact that we never know what’s going on in someone else’s life. Jaime Lo is a shy and quiet young girl from Hong Kong who lives in Canada. Now, Jaime’s father must return to Hong Kong to seek work and is gone for many months. This is the first time their family has split up, and it’s a sacrifice that Jaime’s father must make to provide a better life for his children. As Jaime comes to understand this, she expresses her gratitude in the most touching way.
This film has a lot to teach about sacrifice and the fact that we never know what’s going on in someone else’s life. Jaime Lo is a shy and quiet young girl from Hong Kong who lives in Canada. Now, Jaime’s father must return to Hong Kong to seek work and is gone for many months. This is the first time their family has split up, and it’s a sacrifice that Jaime’s father must make to provide a better life for his children. As Jaime comes to understand this, she expresses her gratitude in the most touching way.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2.4 - Appreciate how connections to a community contribute to one's identity - Suggested use:
- Talking point about the sacrifices families/parents often go through when immigrating to a new country
- Discussion on identity
- Developing empathy for those who move to a new country
- Opportunity to talk about the many sacrifices, the challenges, the adjustments it takes to move to a new country - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Molly of Denali
An action-adventure comedy that follows the adventures of feisty and resourceful 10-year-old Molly Mabray (Sovereign Bill), an Indigenous girl. Molly helps her mom and dad run the Denali Trading Post, a general store, bunkhouse, and transport hub. Each episode follows Molly, her dog Suki and her friends Tooey and Trini on their daily adventures, from fishing to building snow forts to delivering a camera to friends on a volcano via dog sled.
An action-adventure comedy that follows the adventures of feisty and resourceful 10-year-old Molly Mabray (Sovereign Bill), an Indigenous girl. Molly helps her mom and dad run the Denali Trading Post, a general store, bunkhouse, and transport hub. Each episode follows Molly, her dog Suki and her friends Tooey and Trini on their daily adventures, from fishing to building snow forts to delivering a camera to friends on a volcano via dog sled.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.1.3 - Cultural and linguistic characteristics of an Inuit/ an Acadian and a prairie community in Canada (human geography). Stories and traditions/ languages connect to Canada’s greater identity
- 2.2.7 - Examine how the community being studied has changed. Cause for change/ community member impact on change/ population change/ Indigenous and Francophone presence in present day - Suggested use:
- Use as a hook to introduce various aspects of life in the Arctic before studying topics like geography, landforms, transportation, clothing, food, and culture
- Students could create stories about Molly's adventures and share them with the class. Compile the stories to create a class book - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Chinese Spring festival
春节 (chūn jié) - ‘Spring Festival’ is the Lunar New Year, and the most important Chinese holiday of the year. For Chinese people, 春节 (chūn jié) is a time for being with family.
春节 (chūn jié) - ‘Spring Festival’ is the Lunar New Year, and the most important Chinese holiday of the year. For Chinese people, 春节 (chūn jié) is a time for being with family.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2.3 - Appreciate the importance of collaboration and living in harmony
- 2.2.4 - Appreciate how connections to a community contribute to one's identity - Suggested use:
- Have the students make paper lanterns to display in the classroom
- Find out which animal of the Chinese Zodiac it is for the current year and have students create that animal using a variety of art materials or draw in their visual journals - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Being Different is Beautiful
Animated video that outlines the differences and similarities between people from diverse cultures.
Animated video that outlines the differences and similarities between people from diverse cultures.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2.4 - Appreciate how connections to a community contribute to one's identity
- 2.2.5 - Appreciate how cultural and linguistic exchanges connect one community to another - Suggested use:
- Link to personal identify and uniqueness
- What makes you special? Have students create a mind map about all the different things that make them unique (tie to culture/religion/talents/interests etc.) - Accessibility:
- Transcription available
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
The Sandwich Swap
Animated video about two friends from different cultures who eat different foods.
Animated video about two friends from different cultures who eat different foods.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2.4 - Appreciate how connections to a community contribute to one's identity
- 2.2.5 - Appreciate how cultural and linguistic exchanges connect one community to another - Suggested use:
- Have students reflect on if they have any special foods that they eat at home. What makes it special to them and their family? Is it traditional? A part of their culture? Give students the space to share and discuss what food means in their home
- Great opportunity for teacher to talk about how food is universal and has significant meaning in all cultures - Accessibility:
- Transcription available
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Kids Share Their Cultural Tradition
Five kids share cultural traditions from their heritage. Frankie shares a Filipino tradition. Nicolina talks about her Italian family. A girl from Turkey shares a Turkish nursery rhyme. A boy from Korea shows us how to perform a Korean New Years Bow. A boy from Kenya's Luo Tribe shares a traditional dish.
Five kids share cultural traditions from their heritage. Frankie shares a Filipino tradition. Nicolina talks about her Italian family. A girl from Turkey shares a Turkish nursery rhyme. A boy from Korea shows us how to perform a Korean New Years Bow. A boy from Kenya's Luo Tribe shares a traditional dish.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2.4 - Appreciate how connections to a community contribute to one's identity
- 2.2.5 - Appreciate how cultural and linguistic exchanges connect one community to another - Suggested use:
- Use as part of a discussion around diverse cultural traditions, clothing, foods, and activities - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
How Chinese People Celebrate Chinese New Year
Spring Festival is the Lunar New Year, and the most important Chinese holiday of the year. For Chinese people, it is a time for being with family.
Spring Festival is the Lunar New Year, and the most important Chinese holiday of the year. For Chinese people, it is a time for being with family.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2.3 - Appreciate the importance of collaboration and living in harmony
- 2.2.4 - Appreciate how connections to a community contribute to one's identity - Suggested use:
- Celebrate Lunar New Year and its traditions, where the students clean the classroom, make food and other widespread activities. Ideal to use this close to celebration - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Eid Celebration & Facts For Kids
Discover not just the significance of Eid, but also the joy of giving, that is so strongly rooted in the tradition of this much-celebrated holiday.
Discover not just the significance of Eid, but also the joy of giving, that is so strongly rooted in the tradition of this much-celebrated holiday.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2.3 - Appreciate the importance of collaboration and living in harmony
- 2.2.4 - Appreciate how connections to a community contribute to one's identity - Suggested use:
- Celebrate Eid and its traditions, where the students talk about the importance of giving back to the less fortunate, make food and other widespread activities. Ideal to use this close to Eid (note: there are two Eid celebrations in a year, search on internet to find out when this celebration takes place) - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Hair Love
Cherry, tells the heartfelt story of an African American father learning to do his daughter’s hair for the first time.
Cherry, tells the heartfelt story of an African American father learning to do his daughter’s hair for the first time.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2.4 - Appreciate how connections to a community contribute to one's identity
- 2.2.5 - Appreciate how cultural and linguistic exchanges connect one community to another - Suggested use:
- Prompt discussion about how everyone looks different and how it's important to love yourself the way you are because everyone is unique and that's great - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Traditional Clothes in Indian Culture
India is known across the globe for its diversity and variety, especially in language, food and clothing. This video brings to you an interesting story on Indian culture, helping kids understand the different types of Indian traditional clothes.
India is known across the globe for its diversity and variety, especially in language, food and clothing. This video brings to you an interesting story on Indian culture, helping kids understand the different types of Indian traditional clothes.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2.5 - Appreciate how cultural and linguistic exchanges connect one community to another
- 2.2.6 - Analyze how the (past) community being studied emerged. Origins of the community/ reason for establishment (fur trade/ etc/ characteristics and unique traits/ and community member contributions - Suggested use:
- Use as part of a discussion around diverse cultural traditions, clothing, foods, and activities - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Mexico: Town and Culture
"Travel Kids" explore Mexico and its culture.
"Travel Kids" explore Mexico and its culture.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2.5 - Appreciate how cultural and linguistic exchanges connect one community to another
- 2.2.6 - Analyze how the (past) community being studied emerged. Origins of the community/ reason for establishment (fur trade/ etc/ characteristics and unique traits/ and community member contributions - Suggested use:
- Use as part of a discussion around diverse cultural traditions, foods, and activities - Accessibility:
- Transcription available
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Thailand: Tigers and Culture
"Travel Kids" explore Thailand, its culture and tigers.
"Travel Kids" explore Thailand, its culture and tigers.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2.5 - Appreciate how cultural and linguistic exchanges connect one community to another
- 2.2.6 - Analyze how the (past) community being studied emerged. Origins of the community/ reason for establishment (fur trade/ etc/ characteristics and unique traits/ and community member contributions - Suggested use:
- Prompt discussion about things kids learned about the culture and places they saw - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Ukraine: Puppets Culture
"Travel Kids" explore Ukrainian culture and puppets.
"Travel Kids" explore Ukrainian culture and puppets.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2.5 - Appreciate how cultural and linguistic exchanges connect one community to another
- 2.2.6 - Analyze how the (past) community being studied emerged. Origins of the community/ reason for establishment (fur trade/ etc/ characteristics and unique traits/ and community member contributions - Suggested use:
- Prompt discussion about things kids learned about the culture and places they saw - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
India: Safari and Culture
"Travel Kids" explore India and its safari.
"Travel Kids" explore India and its safari.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2.5 - Appreciate how cultural and linguistic exchanges connect one community to another
- 2.2.6 - Analyze how the (past) community being studied emerged. Origins of the community/ reason for establishment (fur trade/ etc/ characteristics and unique traits/ and community member contributions - Suggested use:
- Prompt discussion about things kids learned about the culture and places they saw - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Italy: Gladiators Culture
"Travel Kids" explore Italy and its past culture.
"Travel Kids" explore Italy and its past culture.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2.5 - Appreciate how cultural and linguistic exchanges connect one community to another
- 2.2.6 - Analyze how the (past) community being studied emerged. Origins of the community/ reason for establishment (fur trade/ etc/ characteristics and unique traits/ and community member contributions - Suggested use:
- Prompt discussion about things kids learned about the culture and places they saw - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Kenya: Baby Elephants and Culture
"Travel Kids" explore Kenya and its elephant babies.
"Travel Kids" explore Kenya and its elephant babies.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2.5 - Appreciate how cultural and linguistic exchanges connect one community to another
- 2.2.6 - Analyze how the (past) community being studied emerged. Origins of the community/ reason for establishment (fur trade/ etc/ characteristics and unique traits/ and community member contributions - Suggested use:
- Prompt discussion about things kids learned about the culture and places they saw - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
New Zealand: Maori Culture
"Travel Kids" explore New Zealand's Maori culture.
"Travel Kids" explore New Zealand's Maori culture.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2.5 - Appreciate how cultural and linguistic exchanges connect one community to another
- 2.2.6 - Analyze how the (past) community being studied emerged. Origins of the community/ reason for establishment (fur trade/ etc/ characteristics and unique traits/ and community member contributions - Suggested use:
- Prompt discussion about things kids learned about the culture and places they saw. - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Egypt: Mummies & Cultures
"Travel Kids" explore ancient Egyptian culture.
"Travel Kids" explore ancient Egyptian culture.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2.5 - Appreciate how cultural and linguistic exchanges connect one community to another
- 2.2.6 - Analyze how the (past) community being studied emerged. Origins of the community/ reason for establishment (fur trade/ etc/ characteristics and unique traits/ and community member contributions - Suggested use:
- Prompt discussion about things kids learned about the culture and places they saw - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Peru: Machu Picchu
"Travel Kids" explore Peru and the cultural significance of Machu Picchu.
"Travel Kids" explore Peru and the cultural significance of Machu Picchu.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2.5 - Appreciate how cultural and linguistic exchanges connect one community to another
- 2.2.6 - Analyze how the (past) community being studied emerged. Origins of the community/ reason for establishment (fur trade/ etc/ characteristics and unique traits/ and community member contributions - Suggested use:
- Prompt discussion about things kids learned about the culture and places they saw - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
The Friends of Kwan Ming
After his father’s death, Kwan Ming is forced to leave China to find work to provide for his mother. He makes new friends on his voyage, but none of them can find jobs. When the work does come, Kwan Ming cedes the best jobs to his friends and gets stuck with the worst one, but he soon learns that generosity and loyalty pay off. This film exposes kids to the immigrant experience; teaches the value of friendship, loyalty and hard work; and has just the right amount of magical realism thrown in for fun.
After his father’s death, Kwan Ming is forced to leave China to find work to provide for his mother. He makes new friends on his voyage, but none of them can find jobs. When the work does come, Kwan Ming cedes the best jobs to his friends and gets stuck with the worst one, but he soon learns that generosity and loyalty pay off. This film exposes kids to the immigrant experience; teaches the value of friendship, loyalty and hard work; and has just the right amount of magical realism thrown in for fun.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2.3 - Appreciate the importance of collaboration and living in harmony
- 2.2.4 - Appreciate how connections to a community contribute to one's identity - Suggested use:
- Class discussion on Kwan Ming's experience and how he felt throughout his journey
- Discussion on concepts of friendship, sacrifice, family, and the experience of newcomers to a new place
- Students could think of a time they were in a new situation and how it felt to them and someone who helped them through it and write their own story - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Mela's Lunch
This short drama from the Playing Fair series recounts the shaky beginnings of a friendship between Allison and Mela, a girl who recently immigrated to Canada from India. Mela is trying hard to make friends and get used to her new surroundings, but Peter and other classmates make her feel unwelcome and out of place. Though Allison initially goes along with the group, the film shows that differences in skin colour and country of origin need not be an obstacle to friendship or self-esteem.
This short drama from the Playing Fair series recounts the shaky beginnings of a friendship between Allison and Mela, a girl who recently immigrated to Canada from India. Mela is trying hard to make friends and get used to her new surroundings, but Peter and other classmates make her feel unwelcome and out of place. Though Allison initially goes along with the group, the film shows that differences in skin colour and country of origin need not be an obstacle to friendship or self-esteem.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2.3 - Appreciate the importance of collaboration and living in harmony
- 2.2.4 - Appreciate how connections to a community contribute to one's identity - Suggested use:
- Could use as a hook to discuss the difficult of moving to a new country and how we must treat all people with respect and kindness - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Joe
This animated short tells the story of Seraphim "Joe" Fortes, one of Vancouver's most beloved citizens. Born in the West Indies, Joe Fortes swam in English Bay for more than 30 years. A self-appointed lifeguard at first, he became so famous that the city of Vancouver finally rewarded him with a salary for doing what he loved best. He taught thousands of people to swim and saved over a hundred lives. Yet there were some who did not respect him because of his skin colour. Through his determination, kindness and love for children, Joe helped shift attitudes.
This animated short tells the story of Seraphim "Joe" Fortes, one of Vancouver's most beloved citizens. Born in the West Indies, Joe Fortes swam in English Bay for more than 30 years. A self-appointed lifeguard at first, he became so famous that the city of Vancouver finally rewarded him with a salary for doing what he loved best. He taught thousands of people to swim and saved over a hundred lives. Yet there were some who did not respect him because of his skin colour. Through his determination, kindness and love for children, Joe helped shift attitudes.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2.7 - Examine how the community being studied has changed. Cause for change/ community member impact on change/ population change/ Indigenous and Francophone presence in present day - Suggested use:
- Discussion prompt on uniting together because of shared interests - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Veronica
Nine-year-old Veronica Makarewicz leads a double life. Born of Polish parents, she dances Polish dances, goes twice weekly to a Polish school, and talks to Polish customers in her parents' bakery. But this film shows that she is also very Canadian.
Nine-year-old Veronica Makarewicz leads a double life. Born of Polish parents, she dances Polish dances, goes twice weekly to a Polish school, and talks to Polish customers in her parents' bakery. But this film shows that she is also very Canadian.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2.4 - Appreciate how connections to a community contribute to one's identity
- 2.2.5 - Appreciate how cultural and linguistic exchanges connect one community to another - Suggested use:
- Use as a hook to introduce "identity"
- Students can create illustrations of their identity, considering cultural beliefs, practices, clothing, etc. - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Who am I? What's on my Head?
An animated video focused on spreading knowledge about Sikhism and the turban. This video is kids friendly.
An animated video focused on spreading knowledge about Sikhism and the turban. This video is kids friendly.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2.4 - Appreciate how connections to a community contribute to one's identity
- 2.2.5 - Appreciate how cultural and linguistic exchanges connect one community to another - Suggested use:
- Use as a hook to talk about what makes us all unique and special
- Can also be used to introduce symbolism/significance in religion - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
- Transcription available
If the World Were a Village of 100 People: A Story About the World's People
Animated video using a 100-person village as an analogy for the different continents in the world.
Animated video using a 100-person village as an analogy for the different continents in the world.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2.4 - Appreciate how connections to a community contribute to one's identity
- 2.2.5 - Appreciate how cultural and linguistic exchanges connect one community to another - Suggested use:
- Use as a hook to discuss diversity within their school community or the province
- Overall important video for representation - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
The Magic Quilt
In this short film, which mixes live action with cutout and embroidery animation, a group of children finds a magic quilt that is their passport to a voyage of discovery. They step inside the quilt and as they travel through its velvet farmlands and satin cities, they experience the multiculturalism of Canada. The quilt is torn and the magic broken when a quarrel breaks out. Once the quilt is repaired and harmony restored, the children have learned that patience and goodwill are needed to mend and maintain quilts, friendships, and nations.
In this short film, which mixes live action with cutout and embroidery animation, a group of children finds a magic quilt that is their passport to a voyage of discovery. They step inside the quilt and as they travel through its velvet farmlands and satin cities, they experience the multiculturalism of Canada. The quilt is torn and the magic broken when a quarrel breaks out. Once the quilt is repaired and harmony restored, the children have learned that patience and goodwill are needed to mend and maintain quilts, friendships, and nations.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2.7 - Examine how the community being studied has changed. Cause for change/ community member impact on change/ population change/ Indigenous and Francophone presence in present day - Suggested use:
- Create a classroom quilt. Each student gets a square where they can draw and write about where they come from - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Painting Beauty: Creating Self-Portraits
The goal of these lessons is to help students develop their racial or ethnic identities in a safe and open classroom environment, and appreciate the broad spectrum of beauty in our diverse, multicultural world.
The goal of these lessons is to help students develop their racial or ethnic identities in a safe and open classroom environment, and appreciate the broad spectrum of beauty in our diverse, multicultural world.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2.4 - Appreciate how connections to a community contribute to one's identity
- 2.2.5 - Appreciate how cultural and linguistic exchanges connect one community to another - Suggested use:
- Website has details on how to use - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal, some accommodations may be required during discussion
- For hard of hearing and visually impaired students some accommodations may be required at some parts of the activity
Handprint Unity Wreath
Martin Luther King Day (January 18) is a great opportunity to teach children and to show others the importance of racial equality. Even though it is an American holiday, its message is one that can be celebrated worldwide.
Martin Luther King Day (January 18) is a great opportunity to teach children and to show others the importance of racial equality. Even though it is an American holiday, its message is one that can be celebrated worldwide.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2.7 - Examine how the community being studied has changed. Cause for change/ community member impact on change/ population change/ Indigenous and Francophone presence in present day - Suggested use:
- Website has details on how to use - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal, hard of hearing, and visually impaired; some accommodations may be required
The Colours of Me
To begin this lesson, ask students to share what they know about skin. Students will most likely share things like “it covers our bodies” or “it can be different colours.” Allow students to share their thoughts with the person sitting next to them before sharing out with the class. You could absolutely collect their thoughts on a circle map if you wanted.
To begin this lesson, ask students to share what they know about skin. Students will most likely share things like “it covers our bodies” or “it can be different colours.” Allow students to share their thoughts with the person sitting next to them before sharing out with the class. You could absolutely collect their thoughts on a circle map if you wanted.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2.4 - Appreciate how connections to a community contribute to one's identity
- 2.2.5 - Appreciate how cultural and linguistic exchanges connect one community to another - Suggested use:
- Website has details on how to use - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal, some accommodations may be required during discussion
- For hard of hearing and visually impaired students some accommodations may be required at some parts of the activity
Art and Community Activism
Talking about activism, activists and leaders, helps children understand how change can happen in a community. This lesson will give students a chance to think about what these concepts mean and to consider the relationship between community activism and the visual arts.
Talking about activism, activists and leaders, helps children understand how change can happen in a community. This lesson will give students a chance to think about what these concepts mean and to consider the relationship between community activism and the visual arts.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2.7 - Examine how the community being studied has changed. Cause for change/ community member impact on change/ population change/ Indigenous and Francophone presence in present day - Suggested use:
- Website has details on how to use - Accessibility:
- Accessible for non verbal, hard of hearing some accommodation required
Who Am I?
Who Am I? Race Awareness Game helps kids think about different ways people self-identify racial and cultural identity, and it gives adults tips for talking about diversity with kids. As part of the Race Awareness Project, the app uses photos and personal quotes from a diverse group of people as a basis for the simple question-and-answer game.
Who Am I? Race Awareness Game helps kids think about different ways people self-identify racial and cultural identity, and it gives adults tips for talking about diversity with kids. As part of the Race Awareness Project, the app uses photos and personal quotes from a diverse group of people as a basis for the simple question-and-answer game.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2.4 - Appreciate how connections to a community contribute to one's identity
- 2.2.5 - Appreciate how cultural and linguistic exchanges connect one community to another - Suggested use:
- Website has details on how to use - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing, and nonverbal
One Globe Kids - Friends Around the World
An app that explores the lives of kids around the world through stories and games. Users pick one of eight kids from five countries: Haiti, the Netherlands, Indonesia, Burundi, and the United States. They then can choose to read that child's story, select "tell me about yourself" to engage in a dialogue, learn phrases or count to 10 in the child's native language, or read more facts about the child's hometown.
An app that explores the lives of kids around the world through stories and games. Users pick one of eight kids from five countries: Haiti, the Netherlands, Indonesia, Burundi, and the United States. They then can choose to read that child's story, select "tell me about yourself" to engage in a dialogue, learn phrases or count to 10 in the child's native language, or read more facts about the child's hometown.
- Curriculum connection:
- 2.2.5 - Appreciate how cultural and linguistic exchanges connect one community to another - Suggested use:
- Website has details on how to use - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal