Diversity, Identity & The Future · Term 4

Immigration Policy Evolution

From the 'Points System' to modern refugee resettlement.

About This Topic

Canada's immigration policy has evolved from a system based on racial and ethnic preferences to one based on skills and family reunification. This topic explores the 1967 'Points System,' which was a major turning point that removed racial discrimination from the selection process and led to a dramatic increase in immigration from non-European countries. Students examine how this shift has changed the face of Canada and fueled its economic and social growth.

The curriculum also covers Canada's role in refugee resettlement, from the 'boat people' of the 1970s to the recent arrivals from Syria and Ukraine. Students investigate the challenges of integration and the debate over immigration levels and their impact on housing, healthcare, and the economy. This topic benefits from analyzing immigration data and collaborative investigations into the 'immigrant experience.' Students grasp the complexity of immigration policy faster through peer-led discussions and by reflecting on the role of immigration in their own family histories.

Learning Objectives

• Analyze the demographic shifts in Canada resulting from the implementation of the 1967 points system.
• Explain the ethical considerations and practical challenges involved in Canada's refugee resettlement programs.
• Evaluate the correlation between immigration levels and key economic indicators in Canada, such as GDP and employment rates.
• Compare and contrast the selection criteria of Canada's historical immigration policies with its current system.
• Synthesize information from immigration data to propose potential policy adjustments for future Canadian immigration.

Before You Start

Foundations of Canadian Identity

Why: Students need a basic understanding of Canada's historical development and its multicultural nature to contextualize immigration policy changes.

Canadian Government and Civics

Why: Understanding the roles of federal and provincial governments is essential for grasping how immigration policies are created and implemented.

Key Vocabulary

Points System	An immigration selection method implemented in 1967 that assigns points based on factors like education, language proficiency, and work experience, replacing earlier race-based criteria.
Refugee Resettlement	The process of admitting refugees who have been identified by the United Nations Refugee Agency or other designated authorities and are unable to return to their home country.
Economic Immigrants	Individuals selected for immigration to Canada based on their ability to contribute to the Canadian economy through skills, education, and work experience.
Family Sponsorship	A category of immigration where Canadian citizens or permanent residents can sponsor certain family members to immigrate to Canada.
Demographic Landscape	The composition of a population, including factors like age, ethnicity, gender, and geographic distribution, which can be significantly altered by immigration patterns.

Active Learning Ideas

Simulation Game: The Points System Challenge

Students are given 'profiles' of potential immigrants with different ages, education levels, and language skills. They must use the 1967 points system to determine who would be eligible to come to Canada, discussing the fairness and the goals of the system.

⏱ 45 min·Small Groups

Generate mission

Inquiry Circle: Refugee Resettlement

In small groups, students research a specific wave of refugees to Canada (e.g., Hungarian, Vietnamese, Syrian). They identify the reasons they fled, the government's response, and the role of private citizens and community groups in helping them settle.

⏱ 45 min·Small Groups

Generate mission

Think-Pair-Share: The Impact of Immigration Today

Students look at current news articles about immigration levels in Canada. They discuss with a partner the potential benefits (e.g., filling labor shortages) and challenges (e.g., pressure on infrastructure) of high levels of immigration.

⏱ 25 min·Pairs

Generate mission

Real-World Connections

Immigration officers at Pearson International Airport in Toronto process thousands of new arrivals daily, applying current immigration regulations and assessing eligibility for entry.

The Canadian Council for Refugees advocates for policies that protect and support refugees, working with settlement agencies in cities like Vancouver and Montreal to assist newcomers with housing and employment.

Economists at the Bank of Canada analyze immigration statistics to forecast labor market needs and advise on the potential impact of immigration levels on inflation and economic growth.

Watch Out for These Misconceptions

Common Misconception

Canada has always been a welcoming country for all immigrants.

What to Teach Instead

Canada has a long history of exclusionary policies, such as the Chinese Head Tax and the 'Continuous Journey' regulation. Peer research into 'historical barriers' helps students see that the modern, open system is a relatively recent development.

Common Misconception

Immigrants are a drain on the Canadian economy.

What to Teach Instead

The vast majority of studies show that immigration is essential for Canada's economic growth, especially given its aging population and low birth rate. Using an 'Economic Impact' analysis helps students see the vital role immigrants play in the workforce and as consumers.

Assessment Ideas

Discussion Prompt

Pose the question: 'How might Canada's cultural identity be different today if the 1967 points system had not been introduced?' Facilitate a class debate where students must support their arguments with evidence related to demographic shifts and cultural integration.

Quick Check

Provide students with a short case study of a refugee family seeking asylum in Canada. Ask them to identify two specific challenges the family might face upon arrival and two potential government or community resources that could assist them.

Exit Ticket

On an index card, have students write one sentence explaining the primary difference between the 1967 points system and pre-1967 immigration selection. Then, ask them to list one economic benefit and one potential economic challenge associated with high immigration levels.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the 1967 'Points System'?

It was a new way of selecting immigrants based on objective criteria like education, job skills, and language ability, rather than their race or country of origin. This made Canada's immigration policy much more fair and led to a more diverse population.

How does Canada's refugee system work?

Canada accepts refugees through two main paths: government-assisted resettlement and private sponsorship (where groups of citizens provide financial and social support). Canada is a world leader in private sponsorship, which has helped thousands of refugees integrate into their new communities.

Why does Canada need high levels of immigration?

With an aging population and a low birth rate, Canada relies on immigration to grow its workforce, support its social programs, and drive economic innovation. Immigrants also bring diverse skills and perspectives that enrich Canadian society.

How can active learning help students understand immigration policy?

Active learning strategies, such as simulating the points system and investigating refugee stories, help students understand the practical and human dimensions of immigration. By engaging with the 'how' and 'why' of policy, students move beyond seeing immigration as just a 'news topic' to seeing it as a fundamental part of Canada's past and future. This hands-on approach fosters a deeper understanding of the importance of inclusion and the challenges of building a diverse and prosperous country.