Canada · Ontario Curriculum Expectations
Grade 6 Social Studies
Grade 6 Social Studies exploring communities in Canada past and present, and Canada's links to the world. Students investigate how Canada has changed and how it connects to the global community.
01Heritage and Identity: Communities in Canada, Past and Present
Students explore the experiences of and relationships between different communities in Canada between 1780 and 1850, and how these experiences relate to present-day Canada.
Students analyze the underlying causes and key grievances that led to the American Revolution.
Students predict the immediate effects of the American Revolution on the British colonies to the north.
Students learn about the United Empire Loyalists who fled the American Revolution and settled in what is now Canada, shaping the character of British North America.
Students explore life in French Canadian communities after the British conquest, including the preservation of language, religion, and culture under British rule.
Students examine the diverse Indigenous nations inhabiting British North America before and during early European settlement.
Students examine how Indigenous communities were affected by the growing number of European settlers, including the impact on land, resources, and traditional ways of life.
Students learn about the Black communities in early Canada, including those who arrived via the Underground Railroad, and the challenges of racism and discrimination they faced.
An exploration of the emergence of the Métis people as a distinct culture and their role in the fur trade and early Canadian economy.
Students investigate the primary economic activities in early Canada, focusing on the fur trade's impact and the rise of agricultural settlements.
Students examine the social hierarchies and daily life within various communities in British North America between 1780-1850.
Students explore the underlying causes and escalating tensions that led to the War of 1812.
Students investigate the key events and lasting impacts of the War of 1812 on British North America and its relationship with the United States.
Students investigate the causes and outcomes of the Rebellions in Upper and Lower Canada, and their impact on political reform.
02People and Environments: Canada's Interactions with the Global Community
Students investigate Canada's social, economic, and political connections to the world, and the role of international organizations.
Students examine Lord Durham's recommendations following the rebellions and their influence on the Act of Union and future governance.
Students explore the creation of the Province of Canada and its implications for political representation and cultural relations.
Students reflect on the diverse cultural influences present in early Canada and how they contributed to a nascent Canadian identity.
Students explore how Canada trades with other countries, what goods and resources it exports and imports, and how trade connects Canadians to people around the world.
Students learn about Canada's role in international organisations such as the United Nations, the Commonwealth, and La Francophonie.
An examination of Canada's reputation as a peacekeeping nation and its involvement in global conflicts and humanitarian missions.
Investigating how Canada provides assistance to developing nations and responds to global natural disasters.
Exploring Canada's responsibility in addressing global environmental issues like climate change and plastic pollution.
Students examine how Canadian culture, arts, and values are shared globally, influencing international perceptions of Canada.
Students investigate Canada's contributions to global health efforts, including disease prevention and access to healthcare in developing nations.
Students explore Canada's stance and actions regarding Indigenous rights on an international scale, including UN declarations.
Students examine how advancements in technology have increased Canada's connectivity and interactions with the global community.
Students investigate the economic and cultural impacts of international tourism on Canada and its regions.
03The Road to Confederation and Governance
Tracing the political evolution of Canada from separate colonies to a united nation and understanding the structure of the federal government.
Students explore how Canada's natural resources, particularly energy, connect it to global markets and environmental debates.
Students examine Canada's contributions to global food security through agriculture, aid, and policy.
Students learn about Canada's contributions to international space exploration and its scientific and technological impacts.
Students explore the political, economic, and military reasons that pushed the British North American colonies towards uniting as one country.
Students learn about the key figures who negotiated and debated the terms of Confederation, including John A. Macdonald and George-Etienne Cartier.
Understanding the legal document that created Canada and defined the powers of the federal and provincial governments.
An overview of how the Canadian government works today, including the role of the Prime Minister, Parliament, and the Governor General.
Distinguishing between municipal, provincial, and federal responsibilities and how they impact daily life.
Students explore the historical and contemporary role of the British Monarchy in Canada's constitutional framework.
Students learn about Canada's electoral process, including how elections work, the role of political parties, and the importance of voting.
Students explore the foundational principles of the Canadian Constitution and how it can be amended to reflect societal changes.
Students learn about traditional and contemporary Indigenous governance structures and their relationship with Canadian governments.
An introduction to Canada's court system, the role of judges, and the principles of justice.
04Immigration and the Changing Face of Canada
Exploring the history of migration to Canada and how different groups have contributed to the nation's development and identity.
Students explore the rights and responsibilities of Canadian citizens and various ways to participate in civic life beyond voting.
Students examine the role of media in informing citizens, shaping public opinion, and holding governments accountable.
Students explore the concept of federalism in Canada and how regional identities and interests influence national politics.
Students explore the waves of immigration that have shaped Canada, learning about why people come to Canada and the contributions immigrants make.
A critical look at the discriminatory policies faced by Chinese immigrants in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Examining Canada's role in providing a safe haven for people fleeing war, persecution, or natural disasters.
Investigating the government's efforts to recruit European farmers to the Prairies and the impact on Indigenous land rights.
Students trace the evolution of Canadian immigration policies from the early 20th century to the present day, noting shifts in priorities and values.
Students explore the concept of multiculturalism in Canada, examining its benefits and challenges for immigrant integration.
Students investigate common challenges faced by immigrants and refugees in Canada, such as language barriers, credential recognition, and cultural adjustment.
Students highlight the diverse economic, social, and cultural contributions of various immigrant groups to Canada's development.
Students examine how immigration has shaped Canada's population demographics, including growth, diversity, and regional distribution.
Students explore broader global migration patterns and how Canada fits into the international context of human movement.
Students learn about the fundamental rights guaranteed to all Canadians and how they are protected by the Constitution.