Canada and World Connections: Grade 4 Canadas Provinces, Territories, and Regions

In this unit of social studies, students learn to identify the physical and political divisions of Canada. They are expected to name and locate the various physical regions, provinces, and territories of Canada, and identify their primary natural resources. Students explore the relationship between the physical landscape, the economy, and the culture of each province/territory. Finally, they are expected to understand how these relationships create links between various communities in the province/territory, and within Canada.

This unit will be tested using a paper-pencil test that includes various types of questions in different formats, including fill in the blank, multiple choice, matching, label the diagram, short answer, and long answer. The questions cover a wide range of concepts beginning with lower order thinking skills of knowledge, understanding, and application. Questions then increase in difficulty as they assess higher order thinking skills of analysis, synthesis, and evaluation. This form of assessment is beneficial to students, as it is valid, fair, and suited to the purpose. Students have been given the appropriate skills for success throughout the unit and will be able to display all of their acquired knowledge and skill on the test.

Within this unit, alternative authentic approaches will include using maps, graphics, and print materials to present information through media works, oral presentations, written notes, and drawings. Students will be given various assignments throughout the unit that will allow them to display their knowledge. These assignments might include labeling a map of Canada, covering all of its provinces, territories, and/or physical regions, a group presentation discussing the pros and cons of the natural resources within a province/territory, an interview with a primary industry worker, and journal responses or learning logs that discuss various topics after lessons. Students will also be observed before, after, and throughout lessons as a way of assessing their knowledge and understanding of the subject matter.