You ever see any military exercises in the sky above you? Look up one day because it is something to see!

Outcome: Canadian military forces made significant contributions to the First World War, including accomplishments on the battlefields of Vimy Ridge, Beaumont-Hamel, Ypres (Second Battle and Passchendaele), Gallipoli

The Grade 7s are going to like this one because WWI is one of the topics they always ask about but have never had a curriculum dealing with it… until now.

Outcome: During the First World War, Britain had control of Canada’s foreign affairs and sent Canadian military forces (Canadian Expeditionary Force and Canadian Corps) to fight as distinct units for the first time.

The Canadian War Museum in Ottawa is well worth a visit if you ever find yourself in the Ottawa area. I think you will be impressed, especially with the LeBreton Gallery.

Outcome: The early development of Canada’s military forces was supported by policy, e.g., the Militia Acts of 1855 and 1904, increased independence, e.g., withdrawal of the British Army (1871) and establishment of the Royal Canadian Navy (1910), increased participation in international conflict, including participation in the Boer War (1899–1902, specifically the Battle of Paardeberg).

Let’s play a quick game. I say Canada, and you say (think)… I do this at the beginning of the year with my Grade 7s and I get a whole list of things.

Outcome: National police forces in Canada evolved into the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, or RCMP, that oversees national security across Canada today.

I used to watch Law and Order religiously. I will die on this hill by saying its opening theme is one of the best in tv history.

Outcome: The North-West Mounted Police, or NWMP, was established (1873) to enforce laws and defend territory as the Dominion of Canada expanded west.

It’s a new Guiding Question, a new part of the curriculum – How can defence of peace and security play a role in the development of a nation? 

Outcome: Armed forces, including national police forces and military forces, support peace and security in Canada and around the world.

Sports. What an amazing concept to bring people together… and break them apart in heated rivalry – GO OILERS!

Outcome: Western settlement contributed to the entry of Alberta and Saskatchewan into Confederation (1905).

Imagine way back when there were no airplanes, cars, electricity, and internet. People still managed. Not sure how, but they managed.

Outcome: Completion of the Canadian Pacific Railway was a critical milestone for the Dominion of Canada as it improved transportation and facilitated western settlement of diverse populations, including immigrants arriving from Europe, such as Britain and Ukraine, immigrants arriving from the United States, including Black settlers, and Francophones arriving from Quebec.

Train travel. If you ever get a chance, you will not be disappointed. It’s so relaxing and you get to see so much of the country side! Don’t even get me started on the high speed trains that exist in other countries. It’s better than flying first class.

Outcome: The Canadian government developed policies, including Sir John A. MacDonald’s National Policy, to promote western settlement and ensure a labour source and market for goods to develop the Prairies.

Rules and regulations. Nothing is ever simple when dealing with governments. And, when you finally get somewhere with them, there’s bound be still be issues.

Outcome: The 1876 Indian Act is a federal law that established policies affecting First Nations governance, land management, and cultural practices. Its legacy remains a subject of legal and political debate.