Introduction to the Constitution
Ensure that students understand the evolution of
Canada’s political autonomy up to the point of
the patriation of the Constitution in 1982. Have
students do a think-pair-share on the following
questions:
− What rights and freedoms do Canadian
citizens have?
− Are there any limits on our rights and
freedoms?
− Are there responsibilities associated with our
citizenship? If so, what are they?
− Do Canadians have more rights and
freedoms now than Canadians did earlier in
the twentieth century? Than citizens in other
places in the world? If so, why might that be
the case?
Provide students with information on the major
components of the Constitution Act, 1982. Give
each student a copy of the Charter of Rights and
Freedoms. As a class, identify the major categories
of rights and freedoms. Provide instruction on
the possible limitations on rights (e.g., Section
One and Notwithstanding clause). (Quebec sign law , Bill 101)
Provide groups of students with scenarios and
questions in order to help them understand the
types of rights and freedoms in the charter.
Possible scenarios include:
− Your family moves to Trois Rivières, Quebec.
Do you have the right to attend an English
language school?
− What are mobility rights?
− What is the maximum amount of time
permitted between federal elections?
− If you are acquitted of an offence (found not
guilty) and new evidence is found to
implicate you, can you be charged again for
the same offence?
− Can a Canadian be barred from voting based
on a mental disability?
RESOURCES
Youth Guide to the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms
Your Guide to the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms
COMMENTS?