Activity Overview
It is important for students to understand the many different terms that are associated with government. For this activity, students will create a 3 cell storyboard, depicting and describing important vocabulary terms relating to the government of Canada. Students may choose more than 3 words at the teacher's discretion. Below is a list of terms for students to research and define, or teachers may provide their own.
Important Terms To Know:
Constitutional Monarchy: A system of government in which a monarch shares power with a constitutionally organized government.
Democracy: A form of government in which the people have the authority to choose their governing leaders.
Parliament: The legislative branch of the Canadian government. The Parliament consists of the Monarch, the Senate, and the House of Commons.
Federal Government: The central government that serves the whole country. They are responsible for anything that impacts the country as a whole, such as taxes, the military, immigration, and the trading of goods.
Provincial Government: The level of government that serves individual provinces and territories. They are responsible for things such as education, highways, healthcare, and agriculture.
Municipal Government: The level of government that serves individual cities and towns. They are responsible for things such as public parks and libraries, public transportation, garbage removal, and local police and fire services.
Executive Branch: The branch of government that executes and enforces the laws and policies. The members include the Monarch, the Governor General, the Prime Minister, and the Cabinet.
Legislative Branch: The branch of government that makes the laws. The members include the Senate and the House of Commons.
Judicial Branch: The branch of government that interprets the laws and administers justice. This branch consists of Supreme Courts, Federal Courts, Military Courts, and Provincial Courts.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Due Date:
Objective: Create a storyboard that defines and illustrates terms relating to the Canadian government.
Student Instructions:
- Click “Start assignment”.
- Write the terms in the headings.
- Write the definitions in the description boxes.
- Create an illustration for each description using accurate characters, items, and scenes.
- Save and exit when you're done.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Definition | The definition is correct. | The definition is partially correct. | The definition is incorrect. |
| Visualizations | The storyboard cells clearly illustrate the meaning of the vocabulary words. | The storyboard cells relate to the meaning of the vocabulary words, but are difficult to understand. | The storyboard cells do not clearly relate to the meaning of the vocabulary words. |
Activity Overview
It is important for students to understand the many different terms that are associated with government. For this activity, students will create a 3 cell storyboard, depicting and describing important vocabulary terms relating to the government of Canada. Students may choose more than 3 words at the teacher's discretion. Below is a list of terms for students to research and define, or teachers may provide their own.
Important Terms To Know:
Constitutional Monarchy: A system of government in which a monarch shares power with a constitutionally organized government.
Democracy: A form of government in which the people have the authority to choose their governing leaders.
Parliament: The legislative branch of the Canadian government. The Parliament consists of the Monarch, the Senate, and the House of Commons.
Federal Government: The central government that serves the whole country. They are responsible for anything that impacts the country as a whole, such as taxes, the military, immigration, and the trading of goods.
Provincial Government: The level of government that serves individual provinces and territories. They are responsible for things such as education, highways, healthcare, and agriculture.
Municipal Government: The level of government that serves individual cities and towns. They are responsible for things such as public parks and libraries, public transportation, garbage removal, and local police and fire services.
Executive Branch: The branch of government that executes and enforces the laws and policies. The members include the Monarch, the Governor General, the Prime Minister, and the Cabinet.
Legislative Branch: The branch of government that makes the laws. The members include the Senate and the House of Commons.
Judicial Branch: The branch of government that interprets the laws and administers justice. This branch consists of Supreme Courts, Federal Courts, Military Courts, and Provincial Courts.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Due Date:
Objective: Create a storyboard that defines and illustrates terms relating to the Canadian government.
Student Instructions:
- Click “Start assignment”.
- Write the terms in the headings.
- Write the definitions in the description boxes.
- Create an illustration for each description using accurate characters, items, and scenes.
- Save and exit when you're done.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Definition | The definition is correct. | The definition is partially correct. | The definition is incorrect. |
| Visualizations | The storyboard cells clearly illustrate the meaning of the vocabulary words. | The storyboard cells relate to the meaning of the vocabulary words, but are difficult to understand. | The storyboard cells do not clearly relate to the meaning of the vocabulary words. |
How Tos about Canadian Government Vocabulary
Quickly assess student understanding of Canadian government terms
Check your students’ grasp of key government vocabulary by using exit tickets or short quizzes at the end of your lesson. This helps you identify concepts that need review and provides immediate feedback for both you and your students.
Incorporate interactive games to reinforce vocabulary
Boost engagement by organizing vocabulary bingo, matching games, or charades using Canadian government terms. These activities make learning more memorable and encourage participation from all students.
Encourage students to use vocabulary in real-world scenarios
Assign short skits or debates where students must correctly use government terms in context. This builds deeper understanding and helps them see how these words apply outside the classroom.
Display a classroom word wall with Canadian government vocabulary
Create a visual reference by posting key terms and definitions on a designated wall or bulletin board. Encourage students to add examples or drawings that relate to each term, making the vocabulary visible and accessible throughout the unit.
Connect vocabulary learning to current events in Canada
Ask students to find news articles or headlines featuring government terms from your list. Discuss the connections as a class to reinforce the relevance of their vocabulary learning.
Frequently Asked Questions about Canadian Government Vocabulary
What are the most important Canadian government vocabulary terms every student should know?
Key Canadian government vocabulary terms include constitutional monarchy, democracy, parliament, federal government, provincial government, municipal government, executive branch, legislative branch, and judicial branch. Understanding these helps students grasp how Canada's government is organized and functions.
How can I teach Canadian government vocabulary to grade 5-6 students in a fun way?
A visual storyboard activity is an engaging method for teaching Canadian government vocabulary. Students define terms, create illustrations, and organize their learning visually, making abstract concepts more concrete and memorable.
What is the difference between federal, provincial, and municipal government in Canada?
Federal government handles national issues like defense and immigration, provincial government manages areas such as education and healthcare within provinces, and municipal government oversees local services like parks, libraries, and city transportation.
What does 'constitutional monarchy' mean in the context of Canada?
Constitutional monarchy in Canada means that the country recognizes a monarch as the official head of state, but their powers are limited and defined by a constitution. Real governing power is exercised by elected officials within a democratic framework.
Can you give examples of lessons or activities for teaching Canadian government vocabulary?
Effective activities include storyboard vocabulary boards, matching games with terms and definitions, group discussions, and role-playing branches of government. Visual and interactive methods boost understanding and retention for students.
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