*** 2023/2024 School programs registration is now full – contact [email protected] to be added to the cancellation list.
Registration for the 2024/2025 school year will open in June 2024. Thank you for your interest! ***
Connections to the Land is a one-day, three session, Grade 5 program that reveals the pivotal role that systematic land use played in the settlement and development of early Western Canada.
Everything You Need To Know
See the Connections Programs Overview for instructions to best prepare your class for your program.
Topics Covered in this Program
Connections to the Land takes place in our Historical Village and examines the following three topics:
- Rise of the Métis Nation. This session examines the main fur trading companies and how the fur trade contributed to the foundation of what is now the country of Canada. Following a discussion of the collapse of the fur trade, a brief history of the Métis Nation is presented, including an opportunity to paddle like a voyageur, see a mock Montreal Canoe bow and try real pemmican! This session is held in the 1909 Courthouse.
- Homesteading. A look at the life of early settlers in Alberta, examining the challenges they faced and how they worked together to build communities. Students engage in a homesteading simulation card game in which they have to meet the Government of Canada’s requirements to keep their surveyed homestead. This session is held in the 1902 Castle School and the 1907 Kulak House.
- Building the Railway. Students use a functional model train and take on the roles of Canadian, European, and Chinese railway workers to play a simulation game that has them complete the railway from “Sea to Sea”. Once the railway is completed, each student plays the role of engineer, driving the train from the Canadian Shield to the mountains and back. This session is held in the 1905 Bolton School.
Connections to Curriculum
General Outcome 5.1: Physical Geography of Canada
To understand and appreciate how the physical geography and natural resources of Canada affect the quality of life of all Canadians.
General Outcome 5.2: Histories and Stories of Ways of Life in Canada
To understand and appreciate the people and the stories of Canada and their ways of life over time, and appreciate the diversity of Canada’s heritage.
General Outcome 5.3: Canada: Shaping an Identity
To understand and appreciate the events and factors that have changed the ways of life in Canada over time and appreciate the impact of these changes on citizenship and identity.
For a detailed list of the Specific Outcomes & Skills and Processes that are taught in both Grade 5 programs, please contact the Fort Heritage Precinct Programs Coordinator: [email protected] or 780-992-6635.
