Living in a Global Community · Term 4

Causes of Global Wealth Gap

Examine the historical and contemporary causes of economic inequality between and within nations, including the legacy of colonialism.

About This Topic

The wealth gap refers to the significant inequality in the distribution of assets and income between and within nations. This topic explores the historical and modern causes of this gap, including the legacy of colonialism, unequal trade relationships, and differences in access to education and technology. Students will analyze the concept of the 'Global North' (generally wealthier, industrialized nations) and the 'Global South' (generally developing nations).

The curriculum also addresses the consequences of economic inequality, such as its impact on health, education, and social stability. Students will look at how the wealth gap exists within Canada, particularly between urban and rural areas and between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities. This topic is best taught through 'wealth distribution' simulations and collaborative investigations into the history of global trade.

Active Learning Ideas

Simulation Game: The Global Wealth Game

The class is divided into groups representing different world regions. A 'wealth' (e.g., candy or tokens) is distributed according to real-world percentages, leading to a discussion about fairness and opportunity.

⏱ 45 min·Whole Class

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Inquiry Circle: The Legacy of Colonialism

Pairs research how a specific country's history as a colony has affected its current economic status. They create a 'cause and effect' map showing the link between the past and the present.

⏱ 50 min·Pairs

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Think-Pair-Share: Closing the Gap

Students brainstorm three things that could be done to reduce the wealth gap (e.g., fair trade, education, debt relief). They share their ideas and discuss which one would be the most effective.

⏱ 25 min·Pairs

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Watch Out for These Misconceptions

Common Misconception

Poor countries are poor because they don't work hard.

What to Teach Instead

Economic status is often determined by historical factors and unfair global trade rules. A 'trade simulation' with unequal rules can help students see the structural barriers to wealth.

Common Misconception

The wealth gap is only a problem in other countries.

What to Teach Instead

Canada has significant internal inequality, with some of the highest poverty rates found in Indigenous communities. Comparing income data for different Canadian groups can surface this reality.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the 'Global North' and 'Global South'?

These terms are used to describe the economic divide between generally wealthier, industrialized nations (Global North) and generally poorer, developing nations (Global South). It is not a strict geographical line.

How did colonialism contribute to the wealth gap?

Colonial powers often took natural resources from their colonies to build their own wealth, while preventing the colonies from developing their own industries. This created a cycle of dependency that still affects many countries today.

What is 'income inequality'?

Income inequality is the extent to which income is distributed unevenly among a population. A large gap between the richest and poorest people in a society can lead to social and economic problems.

How can active learning help students understand the wealth gap?

Simulations that physically demonstrate the distribution of wealth allow students to feel the impact of inequality. Active learning helps them move beyond stereotypes and begin to understand the complex historical and systemic reasons why some people and nations have more than others.

Browse curriculum by country

• Americas
• US
• CA
• MX
• CL
• CO
• BR

• Europe
• UK
• IE
• FR
• DE
• ES
• IT
• NL
• PT
• SE

• Asia & Pacific
• IN
• SG
• AU