The Charlottetown Conference (1864)
Trace the initial negotiations at Charlottetown, originally intended for Maritime Union, and its expansion to include the Province of Canada.
Key Questions
- Explain the original purpose of the Charlottetown Conference.
- Analyze how the Province of Canada delegates successfully shifted the agenda.
- Evaluate the significance of this conference as the first step towards Confederation.
Ontario Curriculum Expectations
About This Topic
The British North America (BNA) Act of 1867 is the founding constitutional document of Canada. It created the Dominion of Canada and established the framework for its government. A central feature of the Act is the division of powers between the federal government (Section 91) and the provincial governments (Section 92). Students will learn how the federal government was given control over matters of national importance like defense, trade, and criminal law, while provinces were given control over local matters like education, healthcare, and property rights.
The Act also established Canada as a constitutional monarchy and included specific protections for the French language and Catholic and Protestant schools. This topic is essential for understanding how Canada is governed today and the origins of federal-provincial tensions. It is best taught through 'sorting' activities where students categorize different government responsibilities.
Active Learning Ideas
Stations Rotation: Section 91 vs. Section 92
Stations feature different government tasks (e.g., printing money, running schools, managing the army). Students must use a copy of the BNA Act to decide if each task belongs to the federal or provincial government.
Inquiry Circle: The Language Clause
Pairs analyze Section 133 of the BNA Act regarding the use of English and French. They discuss why this was included and how it reflects the 'bicultural' nature of the new country.
Think-Pair-Share: Why a Monarchy?
Students discuss why the Fathers of Confederation chose to remain a monarchy rather than becoming a republic like the United States. They share their thoughts on how this choice shaped Canadian identity.
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
Common MisconceptionThe BNA Act made Canada completely independent.
What to Teach Instead
Canada was still a 'Dominion' within the British Empire, and Britain still controlled its foreign policy. A 'levels of independence' chart can help students see Canada's gradual path to full sovereignty.
Common MisconceptionThe division of powers has stayed exactly the same since 1867.
What to Teach Instead
While the Act is the foundation, many powers (like healthcare) have become much more complex and are often shared or debated today. Using modern news clips about federal-provincial 'bickering' can illustrate this.
Suggested Methodologies
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the British North America Act?
What are the main powers of the federal government?
What are the main powers of the provincial governments?
How can active learning help students understand the BNA Act?
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