CANADA AND THE FIRST WORLD WAR, 1914-1918

Abstract

This resource pack explores the First World War while focusing on the historical thinking concepts of historical perspectives, the ethical dimension, evidence, and historical significance. The first lesson examines primary sources coming from many points of view regarding the context associated with the causes of World War One. In lesson 2, students will study the ethical issues surrounding the use and effectiveness of propaganda in the First World War. In this third lesson students will think critically on how we can use primary sources to gain evidence about historical settings, moments, and people. To introduce the idea that history is constructed from traces of the past, students will analyze their own lives. The Fourth lesson teaches the “myth” of Vimy Ridge and encourages students to understand the various perspectives surrounding this battle and to understand why these perspectives have emerged. Students will also learn how Vimy Ridge was used to build Canadian identity.