Workbook 2 Activity 3
Completion requirements
Unit 1: Section 1: Workbook 2: Getting to Know Canada's Political and Economic Systems
Activity 3: Issues Important to Me
Get Focused
Have you walked down the street and noticed people asking for money or living
on the street? Have you seen neighbourhoods with run-down houses and graffiti or contaminated water supplies? Do you wonder how this can occur in a country as rich and prosperous as Canada? Canada is believed to have a higher quality of life
than other countries. Seeing fellow citizens or communities struggle can cause strong emotions about what our society supports or does not support.
Issues in Canada provide opportunities and challenges because of our diverse nation, individual points of view, and collective perspectives. Because of individual identity, Canadians might value and believe in various things. Their unique opinions, points of view, and perspectives present opportunities and challenges when responding to issues. Understanding the issues is critical to appreciating government decisions and people's actions.
In this activity, you will begin to examine this question:
How do issues affect my quality of life, citizenship, and identity?
image ©Thinkstock
image ©Thinkstock
image ©Thinkstock
Explore
An issue is a topic about which people may have differing opinions. Opinions may be influenced by a point of view or a perspective on the topic.
Not everything is an issue. For example, cancer is a horrible disease. In 2008, an estimated 166 400 new cases of cancer occurred in Canada. Everyone agrees this is a fact supported by astounding statistics. However, when probing into the topic of cancer, several controversial topics or issues arise.
For example, great debate occurs on the value of the Canadian government passing a law requiring all females between ages 12 and 26 to be vaccinated against certain forms of cancer. There are pros and cons to this issue and everyone may not agree.
issue: an essential subject of dispute; a situation or problem that connects to citizenship, identity, and quality of life
opinion: a personal reaction to an issue
Vocabulary
Go to your Issues for Canadians Definitions handout. Include definitions of issue and opinion.
Remember to always use your own definition when you define a word. This will allow you to recall it easier. Including illustrations might help you remember the definitions.
Return your updated Issues for Canadians Definitions handout to your Activities folder.