Lesson Name:  Introduction to Canadian and World Politics

 

Category: Canadian and World Politics

Course Code: CPW 4U1

Created By: Mark Melnyk

School: Markville Secondary School

Level: Grade 12

Time: 45-75 Minutes (First Day)

 

 

 

 


Rationale:

This lesson introduces students to the study of Canadian and World Politics. The first lesson helps students evaluate the role of nationalist and internationalist ideologies in shaping relations among states. Students are introduced to the origins of modern political philosophy and the rigorous nature of the course ahead.

 

 

Expectations:

Þ    explain the role and function of ideologies in national and international politics;

Þ    demonstrate an understanding of various critiques of traditional world views.

Þ    describe the main economic, political, and social characteristics of developed and developing countries;

Þ    compare key elements of selected theories concerning the nature of effective development (e.g., global industrialization, sustainable national development);

Þ    analyse the main differences between the social beliefs and ideologies in developed and developing countries (e.g., individual and community property ownership, private and public capitalism, inter-party democracy and intra-party democracy);

Þ    demonstrate an understanding of the commonality of human aspirations for a better, more secure life.

 

Instructions:

  1. The lesson is introduced with the Case Method (attached) through the Melian Dialogue from Thucydides, The Pelopponesian War (also included). Choose two students to play the role of the Melians and the Athenians, then have students critically analyze the Melian Dilemma. The instructor can guide the discussion with the leading questions included. (15 Mins)
  2. Following an introduction to the Realist perspective in political philosophy, students are taken through a tour of the Course Website to familiarize them with its essential features. (20 Mins)
  3. Students should be reminded to bring a $10 course pack fee and a 1.5” Binder for the following class. These will be required materials for the course.

 

 

 

Materials:

-          The Melian Dialogue

-          LCD Projector, Computer with Internet Access or Website on CD

-          Course Pack

 

 

Assessment & Evaluation:

- Assess student participation and understanding of Melian Dialogue and gauge participation through visual observation.