PDF Version | Word
Version | Rich Text Format | Text
The Rise of Responsible Government
An essay using the Canada in the Making site
"Responsible government" is the cornerstone of parliamentary
democracy in Canada. It became a rallying cry in Canada in the first
half of the 19th century as more and more citizens became disturbed
by the power structures in Canada. Ultimately, the push for Responsible
Government was one of the motives behind the 1837 and 1838 rebellions.
This essay will give students the opportunity to learn how Canada
moved toward responsible government during the turbulent period
from 1774 to 1849.
Social Studies (History) and Language Arts; Ages 16 and up
This is an essay requiring that students research information online,
as well as become familiar with several documents relevant to responsible
government's emergence in Canada. It can be an independent or group/paired
activity for the purposes of gathering information and will require
four to five sessions online to complete.
Note that the sources used in ECO can be printed from the browser
and then photocopied.
Outcomes (WCP, APEF); Expectations
(ON); Objectives (QC)
Table of Curricular Relevance by Course
British Columbia and Yukon Territory
Computers with Internet access.
(Extension) Coloured card/paper for timeline, and paper backing.
Student Work Sheet
Early Canadiana Online: Canada in the Making
Essay writing resources can be found in the Writing An Essay
unit on ECO:
Other links can be found in the Student Work Sheet.
Students will need
An understanding of Web navigation symbols, tools and terminology,
particularly the tools used in ECO.
Familiarity with basic essay writing skills.
To understand the basic shape of Canadian history.
Ask students what they think is the most important factor in a
healthy democracy. Some ideas might include freedom of speech, the
right to vote, etc. Ask them whether they think such freedoms were
won easily, and how they were achieved.
Hand out Student Work Sheets and introduce students to the ECO Canada
In the Making Web site. Read the assignment and discuss.
Students search for the required information from the Canada
in the Making Web site (and other sources, if desired). They
should try to make balanced observations and anticipate opposing
arguments. It may be efficient for individuals to conduct research
together. Extra credit could be given for comments about the documents
not specifically identified on the Student Work Sheet.
Discussion: Do we have responsible government today? Are there
problems in our current system that limit how responsible government
See the Suggested Rubric.
Individuals or groups could prepare a summary of key documents in
the move toward responsible government, possibly using a timeline
and different presentation media.