Citizenship and Citoyenneté et Immigration Immigration Canada

A LOOK AT C ANADA

2005 EDITION

C&I-143-02-05E 2005 EDITION This booklet belongs to:

______

A Look at Canada is produced for people applying for Canadian citizenship. Distribution to other users is limited. This publication may be reproduced in whole or in part for any non-commercial purpose relating to citizenship education.

If you have any comments, please write to:

Integration Branch Promotion Division Citizenship and Immigration Canada , K1A 1L1

A Look at Canada can also be found and downloaded from the Citizenship and Immigration Canada Web site at www.cic.gc.ca.

© Minister of Public Works and Government Services Canada, 2005 Cat. No. Ci51-61/2005E ISBN 0-662-33946-3 Message to Our Readers

Congratulations! It took courage to decide to move to a new country. Your decision to become a Canadian citizen is another big step.

To become a Canadian citizen, Canada has a long tradition of For information you must be able to speak welcoming newcomers because they about Citizenship English or French. You must also increase the diversity and richness of and Immigration learn about voting procedures Canadian society. are Canada, visit our and Canada’s history and proud of the peaceful and tolerant Web site at geography, and know the rights society they have built. www.cic.gc.ca and responsibilities of This booklet will help you prepare citizenship. Canadian citizens enjoy to become a Canadian citizen. many rights, including equality rights, Good luck! language rights and religious rights, just to name a few. But Canadians also have responsibilities. They must respect Canadian laws, and respect the rights and freedoms of others. Canadian citizens must also be willing to get involved in their communities to help make Canada a better place.

A Look at Canada 3 Ta ble of Contents

Applying for Citizenship ...... 5

What Does Canadian Citizenship Mean? ...... 7

Introducing Canada ...... 8

Protecting the Environment—Sustainable Development ...... 10

Canada’s History and Symbols ...... 12

Aboriginal Peoples of Canada ...... 14

Map of Canada ...... 16

The Atlantic Region ...... 18

Central Canada ...... 20

The Prairie Provinces ...... 23

The West Coast ...... 25

The North ...... 27

Government in Canada ...... 29

Other Levels of Government in Canada ...... 30

Do You Know Your Elected Representatives? ...... 31

Federal Elections ...... 32

Voting Procedures During an Election Period ...... 36

The Canadian Justice System ...... 37

Citizenship Rights and Responsibilities ...... 38

For More Information ...... 41

Citizenship Test: Questions ...... 42

4 A Look at Canada Applying for Citizenship

When you apply for citizenship, officials will check your documents. They will confirm your immigration status and make sure you don’t have a criminal record. They will also make sure you meet the requirements of citizenship.

To become a Canadian citizen, How to use this booklet you must to prepare for the citizenship test • be 18 years old or older; This booklet will help you prepare for • be a permanent resident the citizenship test. You should of Canada; • study this booklet; •have lived in Canada for at least three of the four • ask a friend or family member to years before applying for help you practise answering citizenship; questions about Canada;

• speak either English or • call a local school or school board, French; a college, a community centre or a local organization that provides • know Canada’s history and services to immigrants and ask for geography; and information on citizenship classes; • know about Canada’s system •take language classes if you need of government and the rights to learn to speak English or French; and responsibilities of citizenship. • use the questions at the back of the booklet to prepare for the test; Your application may take several and months. Make sure that the Call Centre (see page 41 for telephone numbers) always has your correct address during this time. The citizenship office will send you a “Notice to Appear” telling you where and when to go for your citizenship test or your interview with a citizenship official.

A Look at Canada 5 • find the answers to the questions After the test about the region where you live. The Citizenship office will tell you about the results of your test. If you About the citizenship test pass the test and meet all the other The citizenship test is usually a written requirements, you will receive a test, but it could be an interview. The “Notice to Appear to Take the Oath of test helps government officials decide Citizenship.” This document tells you if you can speak English or French the date, time and place of your well enough to become a Canadian citizenship ceremony. This is the final citizen. It is also used to test your step in becoming a Canadian citizen. knowledge of Canada and the At the ceremony, you will take the responsibilities and privileges of oath of citizenship, sign the oath form citizenship. To pass the test, and receive your Canadian Citizenship youmust correctly answer all Certificate. Many people bring their questions about the following family and friends to share this topics occasion.

•the right to vote in ;

•the right to run for elected office in Canada; and

•voting procedures and how to register yourself as a voter.

You must also correctly answer questions chosen from the following topics

• Canada’s history;

• Canada’s geography; and

• the rights and responsibilities of a citizen.

6 A Look at Canada What Does Canadian Citizenship Mean?

Canadian values include freedom, respect for cultural differences and a commitment to social justice. We are proud of the fact that we are a peaceful nation. In fact, Canadians act as peacekeepers in many countries around the world.

Canada is a large country with a small Peace—We are proud of our non- population. We have developed a violent society and our unique federal style of government international role as peacekeepers. that is based on compromise and co- Law and order—We respect existence. We value our democracy, democratic decision making and and every citizen is encouraged to do the “rule of law.” We promote due his or her share. Our laws are based process so that the courts and the on our democratic values. police treat everyone fairly and include: reasonably. We ensure that our Equality—We respect everyone’s elected governments remain rights. Everyone has the right to accountable to Canadians. speak out and express ideas that As you reflect on these values, ask others might disagree with. yourself which responsibilities you Governments must treat everyone will take on when you become a with equal dignity and respect— Canadian citizen. two other fundamental Canadian values.

Respect for cultural differences—We try to understand and appreciate the cultures, customs and traditions of all Canadians, whether they were born in Canada or came here from another country.

Freedom—As Canadians, we enjoy basic freedoms, such as freedom of thought, freedom of speech, freedom of religion and freedom of peaceful assembly.

A Look at Canada 7 Introducing Canada

Key Words Throughout Canada’s history, millions of immigrants have helped build our country. We welcome people from more than

Official languages 150 countries each year.

Multiculturalism As Canadians, we are proud that friends and neighbours in need. There many different cultural and ethnic are many different ways you can help Volunteerism groups live and work here in harmony. others in your community. The Canadian Multiculturalism Act recognizes our cultural diversity. It Canada’s official languages states that we are all free to maintain and share our cultural heritage and to English and French are Canada’s two participate fully and equally in our official languages. English- and national life. French-speaking people have lived together in Canada for more than The only people originally from 300 years. This is an important part of Canada are the Aboriginal peoples. our —more than They lived in Canada for thousands of 98 percent of Canadians speak either years before the first immigrants came English or French or both. You must here. The Aboriginal peoples are an be able to speak English or important part of Canada’s French to become a Canadian population. They are working to citizen. protect and promote their languages, cultures and traditions, and to set up Legal documents like the Canadian their own governments. Constitution and the Official Languages Act protect the rights of In a country as large and diverse as individual Canadians with regard to Canada, equality is very important. It official languages. For example, is so important that the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms is part • English and French have equal of our Constitution. status in the of Canada, in federal courts and in all federal In Canada, we also believe in the institutions; importance of working together and helping one another. People who help •everyone has the right to a others without being paid are called criminal trial in either English volunteers. There are millions of or French; volunteers across Canada. Some people join community groups and help with local projects. Others help

8 A Look at Canada • the public has the right, where Service industries provide there is sufficient demand, to thousands of different jobs in areas receive federal government services like transportation, education, health in either English or French; and care, construction, banking, communications and government. •official language minority groups More than 70 percent of working in most provinces and territories Canadians now have jobs in service have the right to be educated in industries. their language.

Canada from coast to coast Canada’s economy Canada is a very large country with Canada’s economy is made up of an area of 10 million square many different industries. There are kilometres, but it has a fairly small three main types of industries in population. About 31 million people Canada: natural resources, live here. Most Canadians live in the manufacturing and services. southern parts of Canada. Natural resource industries include forestry, fishing, agriculture, Provinces and territories mining and energy. These industries have played an important part in the Canada has 10 provinces and three country’s history and development. territories. Each province and territory Today, the economy of many areas of has its own capital city. You should the country still depends on know the capital of Canada, as well as developing natural resources. the capital of your province or territory. (See map of Canada on Manufacturing industries make pages 16 and 17.) products to sell in Canada and around the world. Manufactured products include paper, technological equipment, automobiles, food, clothing and many other goods. Our largest international trading partner is the .

A Look at Canada 9 Protecting the Environment— Sustainable Development

Key Words Economic growth is crucial for the future prosperity of Canada, but growth must be managed carefully so that it does not

Compost harm the environment. The Canadian government is committed to the goal of sustainable development, which means economic Recycle growth that is environmentally sound.

Plant trees A healthy environment is important to Achieving sustainable development is Environmentally quality of life. All citizens should act in a long-term goal. Reaching it will friendly a responsible manner toward the require many changes in the way environment so that our children have people act. Individuals can do many the opportunity to live in a country things in their daily lives to help that is clean and prosperous. protect the environment and move toward sustainable development. Here All Canadian citizens have a are some examples: responsibility to contribute to the social, economic and environmental • Throw waste paper or other well-being of our country. Both garbage in designated public individual and collective action will garbage containers. help achieve progress toward the goal • Compost, recycle and re-use as of sustainable development. many products as possible, It takes time to learn about the such as paper, glass and cans. environment and how to protect it. • Conserve energy and water by However, if we don’t pay attention to turning off lights and taps when environmental issues, our they are not being used. environment will suffer. •Walk, join a car pool, or use a bicycle or public transit whenever possible.

10 A Look at Canada • Use products that are environmentally friendly.

• Plant trees and grow a garden. Avoid using chemicals.

•Get involved with a local group to protect our natural and cultural heritage.

Good environmental citizenship means making sure that groups and individuals have the information they need and understand how to use it to take responsible environmental action. We are accountable for our environment. We must protect it. This way, we take responsibility for the quality of our lives and the lives of future generations.

A Look at Canada 11 Canada’s History and Symbols

Key Words Confederation The maple leaf On July 1, 1867, the provinces we The maple leaf is a Confederation now know as Ontario, , popular symbol of Canada. and It was used as a symbol of Canada as Canadian joined together to create the new early as 1700. It is on the penny, our Charter of country of Canada. This is known as one-cent coin, where its design has Rights and Confederation. Confederation was hardly changed since 1937. Freedoms made official by the British North Since February 15, 1965, a red maple America Act of 1867. British North leaf has been on the national flag of America Act As time passed, other provinces and Canada. It has become our most territories joined Confederation and prominent symbol. Governor became part of Canada. General The Parliament buildings Dates when provinces and Constitution The Parliament buildings are territories joined in Ottawa, Ontario, the Confederation Head of State capital of Canada. The tower in the centre of the buildings 1867 Ontario, Quebec, is called the Peace Tower. Nova Scotia, New Brunswick

1870 , Northwest Te rritories

1871

1873

1898 Territory

1905 , The beaver is one of the symbols of 1949 Canada. It appears on the five-cent coin. 1999 Canada’s first Prime Minister In 1867, Sir John A. Macdonald When did your province or territory became the first Prime Minister of join Confederation? Canada. His picture is on the ten- dollar bill.

12 A Look at Canada Canada’s Constitution Where does the name Canada’s Constitution is the system of Canada come from? laws and conventions that we In 1535, two Aboriginal youths used Canadians use to govern ourselves. the Huron-Iroquois word “kanata,” In 1965, Canada Until 1982, changes to the which means “village” or “settle- adopted its official red Constitution had to be approved by and white flag with the ment,” to tell the maple leaf. All federal the British Parliament. The way to (site of present- government buildings fly the Canadian flag. Constitution Act, 1982 gave the day Québec City). Cartier used the power to “Canada” to refer not only to change our Constitution. The Stadacona, but also to the entire Canadian Charter of Rights and area subject to Donnacona, Chief at Freedoms also became part of the Stadacona. Canadian Constitution in 1982. Canada’s By 1547, the first world map to national anthem show the discoveries made on Cartier’s second voyage applied the Each year on July 1, we celebrate word “Canada” to the area north of Canada Day, the anniversary of the St. Lawrence gulf and river. By O Canada! Our home Confederation. 1550, maps were also placing the and native land! name south of the river. The first use True patriot love in all The Queen of “Canada” as an official name thy sons command came in 1791 when the With glowing hearts we Her Majesty Queen Constitutional Act (or Canada Act) see thee rise Elizabeth II is the divided Quebec, then considerably Queen of Canada and The true North strong larger, into the provinces of Upper and free! Canada’s Head of Canada and . In 1841, State. This means that they were united to become the From far and wide, the Queen is the . At the time of O Canada We stand on guard formal head of Canada. Confederation, the new country for thee The Governor General is the took the name of Canada. Queen’s representative in God keep our land Canada. The provinces also have glorious and free! representatives of the Queen, known O Canada, we stand on as lieutenant governors. guard for thee O Canada, we stand on guard for thee

A Look at Canada 13 Aboriginal Peoples of Canada

Key Words The Aboriginal peoples were the first people to live in Canada. They had many different spiritual beliefs and cultural traditions

Inuit that have been passed down from generation to generation. Today, they live in every region of the country. Métis Aboriginal peoples developed a First Nations special relationship with nature, since The term “First Nations” has been they depended on it for survival. Land claim used since the 1970s instead of Those who lived on Canada’s coasts settlements “Indian.” First Nations describes all depended on fishing and hunting. Aboriginal people in Canada who are Self- Those who lived in central and not Inuit or Métis. Different First government hunted and grew Nations communities have different vegetable crops. languages, cultures and traditions, The Constitution Act of 1982 depending largely on where they are recognizes three main groups of located. Aboriginal peoples in Canada: the First Nations people living in eastern First Nations, the Inuit and the Métis. invented bark canoes Today, there are more than to travel on rivers and lakes. Some 50 different languages spoken by First Nations people lived on the Aboriginal peoples, most of which are plains, and moved with the buffalo spoken only in Canada. herds, which they hunted for food, The Aboriginal population is growing clothing and tools. They made almost twice as fast as the rest of the lightweight, solid homes that population in Canada. Aboriginal were easy to move. peoples make up about three percent These homes, called of all Canadians, or roughly 790,000 “tepees,” were made people. About 69 percent are First of poles arranged in Nations, 26 percent are Métis and five a cone shape and percent are Inuit. covered with animal skins.

14 A Look at Canada Inuit Treaties—past, present and future Inuit are Aboriginal people who live in Canada’s North, which includes The British and Canadian govern- Nunavut, the , ments made many agreements, or Northern Quebec and . They treaties, with the Aboriginal peoples have a close connection with the land between 1701 and 1923. These and all the plants and animals that treaties granted the Aboriginal share it. They adjusted to the cold peoples certain rights and benefits in northern weather and lived by exchange for giving up their to hunting seals, whales, caribou and the land. Each treaty is unique and is polar bears. Some Inuit people still seen as a solemn promise. hunt for food and clothing. Aboriginal groups and the Canadian government are still negotiating new agreements for land and other rights. These modern agreements are known as land claim settlements. Nunavut, Canada’s newest territory, was created as a result of a land claim settlement.

The Canadian government continues to negotiate with Aboriginal peoples so that they can regain control over decisions that affect them and Métis manage their own affairs. This is known as self-government. Canada is Many early French fur traders and also working with them to improve some English traders married First their economic situation and general Nations women. Their descendants quality of life. are called the Métis people. The Métis, who developed their own Aboriginal peoples have unique distinct culture on the Prairies, played histories, cultures and languages. an important role in the fur trade. They continue to play an active role in Canadian society. Today, the majority of Métis people live in the western regions of Canada.

A Look at Canada 15 Map of Canada

Arctic Ocean

Three oceans line Canada’s borders: the Pacific Ocean on the west, the Atlantic Ocean on the east, and the Arctic Ocean to the north. Beaufort Sea

The regions of Canada Canada is a country of 10 million Yukon square kilometres. It includes many Territory different geographical areas and five distinct regions: Northwest • the Atlantic Region; Territories • ; • the Prairie Provinces; • the West Coast; and • the North. Pacific Ocean The national capital British The national capital of Canada is Columbia

Ottawa, Ontario. This is where the Alberta federal government and the

Parliament buildings are located. Van couver I Saskatchew

Provinces and territories sland Canada has 10 provinces and three territories. Each province and territory has its own capital city. You should know the capital of Canada as UNITED STATES OF AMERI well as the capital of your province or territory. Population Canada has a fairly small population. About 31 million people live here. Most Canadians live in the southern parts of Canada.

16 A Look at Canada Region Province/Territory Capital Atlantic Newfoundland St. John's Region and Labrador Prince Edward Island Charlottetown Nova Scotia Halifax New Brunswick Fredericton NORTH Central Quebec Québec Canada Ontario Toronto Prairie Manitoba Winnipeg Provinces Saskatchewan Regina Alberta Edmonton West Coast British Columbia Victoria North Nunavut Iqaluit Northwest Territories Yellowknife Yukon Territory Whitehorse Baffin Island

Nunavut Hudson Strait Labrador Sea

Newfoundland Hudson and Labrador Bay

Quebec

er wan Prince Edward Island Manitoba James Bay Lawrence Riv St.

Ontario

Nova Scotia New Brunswick Lake Superior ICA

Lake Huron Lake Atlantic Ontario Ocean Lake Michigan Lake Erie

1 cm = 370 Km

A Look at Canada 17 The Atlantic Region

Key Words Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, and Prince Edward Island are Canada’s Atlantic provinces.

Nova Scotia Early European explorers first came to this part of Canada to fish and trade with Aboriginal peoples. Later, settlers built New Brunswick strong communities that thrived on farming, fishing and shipbuilding. The region’s coasts and natural resources have Newfoundland made the Atlantic provinces an important part of Canada’s and Labrador history and development. Prince Edward Island The people The economy

Acadians Italian explorer reached ’s economy has Newfoundland in 1497, while French traditionally relied on a strong United Empire explorer Jacques Cartier explored the resource sector, including fishing, Loyalists region in the 1500s. In the 1600s, farming, forestry and mining. The French settlers, who became known economy has grown and diversified in Hibernia as Acadians, were the first Europeans recent years. This has led to the to settle permanently in Canada. Over development of other sectors, time, they were joined by settlers including information technology, from the British Isles and Germany. professional services, advanced manufacturing, aquaculture, and oil During and after the American and gas . Trade has also Revolution (1775–1783), thousands of increased. people left the United States. They became known as United Empire Loyalists. Many of them settled in the Atlantic region. They had various ethnic backgrounds, including English, Irish, Scottish, German, Swiss, Dutch, Italian, Jewish and African-American. Today, people of many different cultures and ethnic backgrounds live in the Atlantic region. Many are descendants of the earliest arrivals.

New Brunswick is the only officially bilingual province in Canada. About one-third of the population lives and works in French.

18 A Look at Canada Potatoes and fruit from Prince Edward The Gulf of the St. Lawrence River and Island, Nova Scotia and New the Atlantic Ocean are important Brunswick are sold across Canada and tourist attractions in the region. to other countries. The food Thousands of tourists visit the Atlantic processing industry is another provinces each year for the important sector of the economy. spectacular scenery, natural coastlines, warm beaches and world-class golf New Brunswick and Nova Scotia have courses. About 85,000 Atlantic extensive forests that allow them to Canadians work in the tourism produce valuable products like pulp, industry. paper and lumber. Forest products are the most valuable manufacturing industry in New Brunswick. Many of Population (approximate) these products are exported to other Newfoundland and countries. Labrador 534,000

Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia 943,000 traditionally dependent on the fishing Prince Edward Island 139,000 industry, is developing other natural New Brunswick 757,000 resources such as oil, nickel, copper Atlantic Provinces 2,373,000 and cobalt. Hibernia, off the coast of Newfoundland and Labrador, is the fifth largest oil field in Canada. Manufacturing and other industries continue to grow.

The service industry is also very important to the Atlantic economy. As in the rest of Canada, more people work in banking, government, and financial and personal services than in traditional resource industries.

Lobster traps

A Look at Canada 19 Central Canada

Key Words Central Canada is made up of Ontario and Quebec. More than half the people in Canada live in cities and towns in southern

Ontario Quebec and Ontario, close to the and the St. Lawrence River. This area is the industrial and Quebec manufacturing heartland of Canada. Together, Ontario and Quebec produce more than three-quarters of all Canadian St. Lawrence manufactured goods. Seaway

Canadian The Great Lakes and the iron ore found in the ancient rock of Shield St. Lawrence Seaway the Shield. The Shield is covered by forests, and part of Canada’s major There are five Great Lakes between Niagara Falls pulp and paper industry relies on the Canada and the United States. They trees of this region. Some of the vast are Lake Ontario, Lake Erie, Lake freshwater resources of the Shield are Huron, Lake Michigan and Lake used to generate electricity. Superior. Lake Superior is the largest freshwater lake in the world. The Great Lakes have been an important The Province of Quebec waterway for thousands of years. The people Aboriginal peoples and fur traders first used them to create trading networks The first people to live in Quebec in North America. Ships from all over were the First Nations people and the the world reach the Great Lakes from Inuit. The Aboriginal peoples who the Atlantic Ocean by travelling along lived near the St. Lawrence River were the St. Lawrence Seaway. The Great fur traders who taught the early Lakes also provide freshwater for settlers how to survive. There are still people and industries around their many Aboriginal communities shores. throughout Quebec today.

Settlers from France first established The communities along the St. Lawrence The land in northern Quebec and River in the early 1600s. Today, Ontario is part of the Canadian Quebec society reflects this heritage. Shield, a rock formation that is More than three-quarters of the millions of years old. Canada is one of Canadians who live in Quebec speak the world’s leading producers of French as their first language. Over minerals because of the rich deposits one-third of the population in Quebec of gold, silver, nickel, zinc, copper and speak both French and English,

20 A Look at Canada making it the province with the There are many farms around the highest number of bilingual lowland areas of the St. Lawrence, Canadians. The province preserves where vegetables, fruit and feed crops and promotes the historic language are grown. Dairy farms are common. and culture of its French-speaking Quebec has the largest dairy farming citizens. industry in Canada. Street in the old town. , Quebec About seven million people live in Quebec’s provincial parks, the Quebec. It is Canada’s largest Laurentian Mountains and its many province. historic sites play an important role in its tourism industry. The economy Quebec is highly industrialized and its The Province of Ontario economy is quite diverse. The Montréal region has been an The people important financial, service and Ontario is the Canadian province with industrial centre since Confederation. the largest population. Over Workers produce fabric, clothing, 11 million people, or roughly one food, paper, metal, and chemical and third of Canada’s population, live in wood products. Montréal is the main Ontario. Most people in Ontario commercial centre of Quebec, and speak English, but the province also has developed competitive industries has the largest French-speaking in space and aeronautics, energy and population outside of Quebec. pharmaceuticals. It is also the centre of a vast transportation network. The Algonquin and Iroquois First Nations were the earliest people to The resources of the Canadian Shield live in the area now known as have helped Quebec develop Ontario. By the late 1700s, the important industries, including population began to grow rapidly. forestry, energy and mining. Quebec The arrival of thousands of United is Canada’s main producer of pulp Empire Loyalists was followed by and paper and a major producer of waves of other newcomers from the minerals such as asbestos, gold, United States and Britain. Newcomers copper, silver and iron ore. The from all over the world continue to province’s huge supply of freshwater settle in Ontario. has allowed it to become Canada’s largest producer of hydroelectricity. St. Joseph’s Oratory, Montréal, Quebec.

A Look at Canada 21 The economy pulp, lumber, newsprint and other paper products. The province’s Throughout Canada’s history, the numerous rivers are a vital source of large population, rich resources and electric power. In Ontario, Niagara strategic location of Ontario have Falls is a well-known example of helped the province build Canada’s waterpower that generates electricity. The province’s numerous biggest provincial economy. Most rivers are a vital source of electric power. In Ontario, people in Ontario work in the service More than 400,000 Ontario workers Niagara Falls is a well- or manufacturing industries. depend on tourism, the province’s known example of waterpower that generates third largest industry. electricity. More than 140,000 people work in the province’s automobile industry, Southern Ontario has rich farmland. which accounts for more than one The Niagara Peninsula is a major third of Canada’s total exports. Other producer of peaches, apples, grapes manufactured goods include steel, and other fruit machinery, metal, plastic and crops. Ontario chemical products, and food. farmers also raise dairy and beef Ontario mines are the biggest cattle, poultry, and producers of metal in Canada. These vegetable and metals include nickel, gold, silver, grain crops. platinum, uranium, zinc and copper. Ontario’s forestry industry produces

Population (approximate) Quebec 7.4 million Ontario 11.9 million Central Canada 19.2 million

To ronto, Canada’s largest city, is one of the most multicultural cities in the world. It is also the capital of Ontario.

22 A Look at Canada The Prairie Provinces

Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta are called the Prairie Key Words provinces. This region of Canada is known for its fertile agricultural land and valuable energy resources. Manitoba

Saskatchewan The Prairies During the late 1800s, the Canadian Alberta government built a railway across the The Prairies are flat plains that stretch Prairies to the Pacific coast. This made across the southern part of the region. immigration to much This area has few trees and very fertile easier. In the early 1900s, about three soil. Most of what was open million people came to the Prairies grasslands is now used for farming, from Europe and Britain. Many settled particularly grain crops, and for on land that the government offered raising cattle. at cheap prices to encourage The Prairie region, however, is not all settlement in the West. flat farmland. The northern and western parts of the region include The economy gently rolling hills, valleys and rivers. The Prairies are rich in energy In southern Alberta, the open prairies resources. About one-half of all the gradually rise to meet the Rocky energy used in Canada comes from Mountains along the border of British oil and natural gas. Alberta is the Columbia. country’s major producer of these fuels. Alberta also has an important The people coal mining industry. Saskatchewan is The First Nations people, the earliest a large producer of oil, natural gas, inhabitants of the Prairies, were skilled uranium and potash. Manitoba, buffalo hunters. Their descendants known as the Land of 100,000 Lakes, and the Métis people became is the most important source of important suppliers, traders, guides hydroelectric power in the Prairie and interpreters for the fur trade. region.

French-speaking people have lived in The majority of people in the Prairie the Prairie provinces since the early provinces work in service industries. Traditionally dressed days of the fur trade. Descendants of This includes business and financial Aboriginal youth at Stampede. these early settlers still live in the services, transportation, tourism, the Prairie region. retail industry, and health and education.

A Look at Canada 23 The Prairies have some of the most Manitoba’s manufacturing industries fertile farmland in the world. Prairie produce a variety of goods, including farmers and ranchers produce grains food, transportation equipment, metal (such as wheat, barley or oats), meat products, electrical goods and and other food products for markets clothing. The manufacturing, mining in Canada and other countries. In and forestry sectors play an important Manitoba, the agricultural industry role in Saskatchewan’s economy. Food benefits from heavy rainfall and and beverage processing is the largest farmers produce a wide variety of manufacturing industry in Alberta. grain crops and livestock. Saskatchewan, the leading wheat Population (approximate) producer in Canada, is one of the most productive agricultural regions Manitoba 1.2 million in the world. Alberta leads the Saskatchewan 1 million country in beef cattle and feed grain Alberta 3 million production. Prairie Provinces 5.2 million

Stampede Morris, Manitoba

24 A Look at Canada The West Coast

British Columbia, on the Pacific Ocean, is known for its Key Words majestic mountains. There are three major mountain ranges in the province: the Rocky Mountains, the Rocky and the . Mountains

Totem poles The people British Columbia was settled by Europeans when the fur trade spread Forests First Nations people lived in British to the west in the early 1800s. In the Columbia for thousands of years Shipping late 1800s, thousands of Chinese before European settlers arrived. Their came to British Columbia to help cultures and languages were build the final section of the Canadian influenced by the wide range of Pacific Railway. Many of their geography in British Columbia, from descendants still live in the province. seashore to mountains. They Many people come to live in British developed a unique form of art, best Columbia from Asia. Today, about known as totem poles. Their art is one-third of the population of the popular around the world. It often Lower British Columbia Mainland is of represents animals, including salmon, Chinese origin. The total population bears, whales, ravens and eagles. of British Columbia is about four million people.

The economy

British Columbia’s rich natural resources have always been important to the economy. The province has the most valuable forestry industry in Canada. About one-half of all the goods produced in British Columbia are forestry products, including lumber, newsprint, and pulp and paper products. Mining is also an important industry.

Tourism is the second largest industry in British Columbia. The natural beauty of the West Coast and the

A Look at Canada 25 Rocky Mountains bring thousands of tourists to the province to fish, hike, camp and ski in the mountains.

Steady rainfall and steep mountain slopes in the province create ideal conditions for generating electricity. British Columbia is Canada’s second largest producer of hydroelectric power. Population (approximate) Fishing is also a valuable industry on the West Coast, but it is going British Columbia 4.1 million through a major restructuring because of a downturn in the salmon fishery. The Okanagan , which is located between the mountain ranges in the central area of the province, is Cherries, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia. famous for its fruit orchards and its wine industry.

Vancouver is the third largest city in Canada, and has North America’s second largest Chinese community. It provides important shipping and air links between Canada and other countries across the Pacific Ocean, such as China and Japan.

26 A Look at Canada The North

Canada’s northern region is divided into the Yukon, the Key Words Northwest Territories and Nunavut. Together, they cover more than one-third of Canada. The Canadian government is Northwest responsible for the territories but elected legislatures make Te rritories decisions on most issues. The people in the Northwest Territories voted to make the eastern region into a new, separate territory Nunavut called Nunavut. It came into existence on April 1, 1999. Yukon

Gold Rush

The people Aboriginal people make up about half “Land of the the population in the North. The Midnight Sun” Aboriginal people have lived in the territorial governments have also North for thousands of years and have given legal recognition to several developed a special relationship with Aboriginal languages. the land. They use their skills as hunters, fishers and trappers to survive Land claim settlements and self- in the harsh northern climate. government agreements have played a major role in the development of The Yukon, the Northwest Territories the North in recent years. Through and Nunavut make up more than these agreements, First Nations one-third of Canada’s land mass, but people have gained greater control only about 100,000 people live there. over their land and decisions that affect them.

The economy

Europeans first came to the North in the late 1600s because of the fur trade. The Hudson’s Bay Company controlled the northern lands and fur trade for 300 years. Some northern people, including many Aboriginal peoples, still earn money and obtain food through hunting, fishing and trapping.

A Look at Canada 27 Mining, oil and gas are very The climate important to the northern economy. The North is sometimes called the Thousands of miners first came to the “Land of the Midnight Sun.” At the Yukon during the Gold Rush at the height of summer, daylight can last end of the 1800s. There are gold, up to 24 hours. In winter, the sun lead, diamond and zinc mines in the disappears, and darkness sets in for territories today. Oil and gas deposits three months. Winters in the North are being developed and people are long and cold. During the brief continue to explore for more of these summers, the land blossoms. valuable resources. The Yukon holds the record for the Inuit prints and soapstone carvings coldest temperature ever recorded in are sold throughout Canada and Canada (-63°C). Most of the North is around the world. In the Yukon, the made up of tundra, the vast rocky Northwest Territories and Nunavut, Arctic plain. Because of the cold Arctic many Aboriginal people work in climate, there are no trees on the cooperative businesses to produce tundra, and the soil is permanently Aboriginal arts and crafts. Tourism is frozen. also a growing industry. Economic development in the North Population (approximate) is welcome, but it must be carefully Nunavut 28,000 managed so it does not threaten the Northwest Territories 41,000 fragile Arctic ecosystem and the traditional lifestyles of the northern Yukon Territory 30,000 people. The North 99,000

Building a log cabin, Yukon Territory.

28 A Look at Canada Government in Canada

There are federal, provincial, territorial and municipal (or local) levels of government in Canada. The responsibilities of the federal and provincial governments were first defined in 1867 in the Act.

In general, the federal government people who serve in the Senate are takes major responsibility for matters chosen by the Prime Minister and that affect all of Canada. These include appointed by the Governor General. national defence, foreign policy and They are called senators. The Prime citizenship. Provincial and territorial Minister is the leader of the political The Queen (represented by the governments look after such matters party with the most elected members Governor General) as education, health care and high- of Parliament sitting in the House of ways. They share responsibilities with Commons. The House The Senate of Commons the federal government in some areas. (members of (senators, Parliament, appointed) The municipal (or local) governments Making laws elected by voters) of each city or community are When the government proposes a responsible for matters such as new law to Parliament, it is called a firefighting, snow removal and bill. MPs and senators have several recycling programs. Canadian citizens opportunities to debate each new bill can vote in elections for all levels of in the House of Commons and the government. Senate. Then the MPs and senators vote on the bill. To become law, a bill The Parliament of Canada must be approved by majorities in both the House of Commons and the Canada is a democracy. It has a Senate. Once a majority of MPs and system of parliamentary senators have approved a bill, the government. Parliament has three Governor General gives final approval parts: the Queen, the House of and the bill becomes law. Commons and the Senate.

Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II is our Head of State. The Governor General of Canada is the Queen’s representative in Canada.

Canadians elect representatives, called members of Parliament (or MPs), to sit in the House of Commons. The

A Look at Canada 29 Other Levels of Government in Canada

Each provincial and territorial government has an elected legislature where provincial and territorial laws are passed. The members of the legislature are called members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs), members of the National Assembly (MNAs), members of the Provincial Parliament (MPPs) or members of the House of Assembly (MHAs), depending on the province or territory.

Municipal governments usually have a Provincial, territorial and municipal council that passes laws. These laws elections are held by secret ballot, but are called by-laws, and affect only the the rules are not the same as those for local community. The council includes federal elections. It is important to a mayor and other elected represen- find out the rules for voting in tatives, often called councillors. provincial, territorial and local elections so that you can exercise your right to vote.

Levels of Government Elected Officials Some Responsibilities Federal Members of National Defence Parliament (MPs) Foreign Policy Citizenship Policing Provincial Members of the Education and Territorial Legislative Assembly (MLA) Health Care or Highways Members of the Policing National Assembly (MNA) or Members of the Provincial Parliament (MPP) or Members of the House of Assembly (MHA) Municipal (local) Mayor Policing Councillors Firefighting Snow Removal

30 A Look at Canada Do You Know Your Elected Representatives?

Federal Government Use this page to Head of State: the representative of the Queen for all Canada list the names of is the Governor General: ______your government representatives Head of government in power: the Prime Minister is ______and other important The party in power is ______information. The leader of the opposition is ______

The official opposition is ______

The other opposition parties and leaders are ______

My member of Parliament (MP) in Ottawa is ______

My federal electoral district is ______

Provincial Government Head of State: the representative of the Queen for my province is the Lieutenant Governor: ______

Head of the government: the Premier is ______

The provincial party in power is ______

The provincial opposition parties and leaders are ______

My provincial representative is ______

Te rritorial Government Head of State: the Commissioner for my territory is ______

Head of the government: the Premier is ______

My territorial representative is ______

Municipal Government The name of the municipality where I live is ______

The head of the municipal government (mayor or reeve) is______

A Look at Canada 31 Federal Elections

Key Words Canadians vote in elections for the people they want to represent them in the House of Commons. In each election,

Federal elections voters may re-elect the same members of the House of Commons or choose new ones. Political parties

Voting Federal elections are usually held her electoral district, even the people every four years. The Prime Minister who did not vote for him or her. Your Electoral districts may ask the Governor General to call member of the House of Commons is an earlier election. According to your link to the federal government. Candidates Canada’s Constitution, an election Your member of the House of must be held within five years of the Commons helps you by National Register last election. of Electors •representing your ideas when new Canada is divided into 308 electoral laws are being proposed; Voter information districts. An electoral district is a • asking questions about the federal card geographical area represented by a government on your behalf; and member of the House of Commons. Ballot The citizens of each electoral district • helping you if you need elect one member of the House of information from the federal Polling stations Commons who sits in the House of government or if you have any Commons. problems with the government.

Canadian citizens who are at least It is easy to contact your member of 18 years old may run in a federal the House of Commons. To find his or election. The people who run for her name, look in the blue pages of office are called candidates. There the telephone book under can be many candidates in an “.” Call the electoral district. toll-free number under “Information on the Government of Canada.” Give The people in each electoral district your address to the information officer vote for the candidate of their choice. who answers your call and he or she The candidate who receives the most will give you the name and telephone votes becomes the member of the number of your member of the House House of Commons for that electoral of Commons. district. You can also find out about your A member of the House of Commons member of the House of Commons represents everyone who lives in his or

32 A Look at Canada by calling Elections Canada toll-free at Members of political parties help to The right to vote is 1 800 463-6868, or if you have access a privilege and a • decide on the party platform; to Internet, by visiting its Web site at responsibility of www.elections.ca. • choose the party leader; Canadian citizenship. Your member of the House of • choose the party’s candidates; and Commons has an office in your • campaign for party candidates in electoral district. You can also write to elections. your member of the House of Commons by sending your letter to: Candidates who do not belong to a political party are called independents. House of Commons Voters lists are produced from the Name of your member of National Register the House of Commons Voting of Electors. Ottawa, Ontario One of the privileges and responsi- K1A 0A6 bilities of Canadian citizenship is the You don’t need to put a stamp right to vote. Elections Canada is the on a letter you send to the House non-partisan agency of Parliament of Commons. responsible for conducting federal elections and referendums. Political parties You are eligible to vote in a federal election or cast a ballot Most candidates in federal elections in a federal referendum if you belong to a political party. A political are party is a group of people who share ideas about how the government •a Canadian citizen; and should work. Some political parties •at least 18 years old on voting have been around for a long time, but day; and Canadians can create new political parties at any time. • on the voters list.

Members of political parties hold The voters lists used during federal meetings where they discuss their elections and referendums are ideas and opinions. They develop produced from the National Register plans for what they would do if their of Electors, a permanent database of candidates were elected to form the Canadian citizens 18 years of age and government. The plans they make are older, who are qualified to vote in called the party platform. federal elections and referendums.

A Look at Canada 33 As soon as you are The National Register of Electors Even if you choose not to be listed in granted contains the name, address, sex and the National Register of Electors or do citizenship, you date of birth of each elector. Elections not receive a voter information card, are eligible to Canada updates the National Register you can still be added to the voters vote. Make sure of Electors through existing data list right up to election day. For your name is on sources, including Citizenship and information on how to do this, call the National Immigration Canada. Elections Canada toll-free at Register of 1 800 463-6868 or visit their Web site It is important to add your name to Electors. at www.elections.ca. the National Register of Electors as soon as your citizenship is granted To vote either on election day or at and you become eligible to vote. advance polls, go to the polling Once an election is station listed on your voter When you apply for citizenship, you called, you will information card. An election officer can check a box on the application receive a voter will give you a ballot. The ballot lists form to show your consent to the information card. the names of the candidates in your transfer of your name, address, sex electoral district in alphabetical order. and date of birth to Elections Canada. Mark the ballot by writing an “X” in This information will only be sent to the circle beside the name of your Your vote is secret. Elections Canada and added to the chosen candidate. Next, fold the National Register of Electors if you ballot so that no one can see how you check the box to show that you voted. Give the folded ballot to the agree. The information can be used election officer, who tears off the For more only for electoral purposes. information on ballot number and hands your ballot voting, visit Eligible Canadians are also able to back to you. Then, either put the Elections Canada’s indicate their consent to being added ballot in the ballot box or ask the Web site at to the National Register of Electors on election officer to do it for you. www.elections.ca their federal income tax form. Canada’s election laws say that your Once an election has been called, vote is secret. This means that no one Elections Canada mails a voter can watch you vote and no one information card to each elector should look at your marked ballot. whose name is in the National You may choose to discuss how you Register of Electors. The card tells you voted with others, but no one has the when and where to vote. If you right to insist that you tell them how require an interpreter or other special you voted. services, it tells you the number to call. Immediately after the polling stations close, election officers count the

34 A Look at Canada ballots, and the results are announced The parties that are not in power are Your member of the on radio and television, and in the called the opposition parties. The House of Commons newspapers. You can also see the opposition party with the most has an office in your results on Elections Canada’s Web site members of the House of Commons electoral district. at www.elections.ca. is the official opposition. The role of the opposition parties is to oppose or After an election try to improve government proposals. The party with the After an election, the party with the most elected most elected representatives becomes representatives the party in power. The leader of this becomes the party in power. party becomes the Prime Minister. About the citizenship test The Prime Minister and the party in power run the government as long as To pass the test, you must they have the support of the majority correctly answer all questions of the members of the House of about the following topics The leader of Commons. this party becomes • the right to vote in elections the Prime Minister. The Prime Minister chooses members in Canada; of the House of Commons to become • the right to run for elected Cabinet ministers. Cabinet ministers office in Canada; and are responsible for running the federal The parties that government departments. The Prime • voting procedures and how to are not in power Minister and the Cabinet ministers are register yourself as a voter. are called the called the Cabinet, and they make opposition parties. important decisions about how to run the country. They also propose most new laws. Their decisions can be questioned by all members of the The opposition House of Commons. party with the most members If a majority of the members of the of the House of House of Commons vote against a Commons is the major government decision, the party official opposition. in power is defeated. The Prime Minister resigns and a new election is usually held.

A Look at Canada 35 Voting Procedures During an Election Period

1 2 3

Voter information card Advance poll and special ballot Electors whose information is in the I did not get a card If you cannot or do not wish to vote National Register of Electors will If you do not receive a voter informa- on election day, you can vote at the receive a voter information card. tion card, call your local elections advance polls (the dates and This confirms that your name is on office to make sure you are on the location are on your voter informa- the voters list and tells you when voters list. If you do not have the tion card) or by special ballot. and where to vote. number, call Elections Canada, in Ottawa, at 1 800 463-6868. 4 5 6

On election day Go to your polling station. The location is Voting is secret on your voter information card. The poll Marking the ballot Your vote is secret. You will be invited officials will confirm that you are on the Mark an "X" in the circle next to to go behind the screen to mark your voters list by asking for your name and the name of the candidate of ballot. Once marked, fold it and present address and will give you a ballot. your choice. it to the poll officials.

7 8

The election results The ballot box When the polls close, every ballot is counted and the results The poll official will tear off the are made public. You can see the results on television or on counterfoil and hand you back the ballot the Elections Canada Web site (www.elections.ca). for you to deposit in the ballot box.

1 800 463-6868 www.elections.ca

36 A Look at Canada The Canadian Justice System

The Canadian justice system guarantees everyone legal rights and equality. Everyone has equal access to the justice system.

Canadian laws are the written rules Getting legal help intended to guide people in our Lawyers can help you with legal society. They are made by elected problems and act for you in court. If government representatives. The you cannot pay for a lawyer, there are police and the courts enforce the legal aid services available free of laws. charge or at low cost in most Canadians have rights and freedoms communities. that are protected under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms through the justice system. Some of the rights and freedoms protected by the justice system include:

• fundamental freedoms, such as freedom of religion, thought, belief, opinion and expression;

• legal rights, including the right to life, liberty and security of the person; and

• equality under the law. Every Canadian has an equal right to the protection and services of the police and the courts.

A Look at Canada 37 Citizenship Rights and Responsibilities

All Canadians have certain rights and responsibilities. They are based on Canadian laws, traditions and shared values.

Many of these rights are defined in Some citizenship rights are defined in About the citizenship test the Canadian Charter of Rights and Canadian laws. One such right is the Freedoms, which is part of Canada’s right to be given preference for jobs You will be asked Constitution. The Canadian Charter of in the federal government. questions about Rights and Freedoms legally protects Many of these rights and freedoms the rights and the basic rights and freedoms of existed in earlier laws. However, with responsibilities of everyone in Canada. Some of these the creation of the Charter in 1982, being a Canadian rights and freedoms are they became better defined and citizen. • democratic rights, such as the better protected. right to vote; With these rights come responsibilities •legal rights, such as the right for everyone in Canada. Individual to a fair trial; Canadians and all levels of Canadian government have the responsibility to • equality rights, such as the respect the rights and freedoms of all right to protection against Canadians. However, it is important to discrimination; realize that the rights of a single •mobility rights, such as the As Canadians, our Canadian or a group of Canadians rights are defined right to live and work cannot interfere with the rights of any in the Canadian anywhere in Canada; other. For this reason, courts must Charter of Rights interpret the Charter from time to •Aboriginal peoples’ rights; and Freedoms. time to make sure that it is applied and fairly in all situations. • basic freedoms, such as freedom of thought, speech, Voting in elections religion and peaceful is both a right and assembly. a responsibility.

38 A Look at Canada Citizenship rights •express opinions freely while respecting the rights and Under the Canadian Charter of freedoms of others; and Rights and Freedoms, Canadian citizens have the right to • eliminate discrimination and injustice. • be candidates in federal, provincial and territorial elections; Getting involved in Canada

• be educated in either official Being a Canadian citizen is more than language; voting and obeying laws. Being a citizen also means getting involved in • apply for a Canadian passport; your community and your country. •vote in federal and provincial Everyone has something to give to or territorial elections; and make Canada a better place. Here are some ways to participate: • enter and leave Canada freely. • join a community group such as an Citizenship also brings responsibilities. environmental group; For example, voting in elections is both a right and a responsibility. •volunteer to work on an election Before you read the next section, campaign for a candidate of your review the list of rights and try to choice; think of the responsibilities that come •help your neighbours; with them. •work with others to solve problems in your community; and Citizenship responsibilities • become a candidate in an election. All Canadian citizens have the responsibility to

•vote in elections;

• help others in the community;

• care for and protect our heritage and environment;

•obey Canada’s laws;

A Look at Canada 39 Oath of Citizenship To become a Canadian citizen you will be required to repeat the Oath after the presiding officer.

Oath of Citizenship I swear (or affirm) that I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Second, Queen of Canada, Her Heirs and Successors, and that I will faithfully observe the laws of Canada and fulfil my duties as a Canadian citizen.

Serment de citoyenneté Je jure fidélité et sincère allégeance à Sa Majesté la Reine Elizabeth Deux, Reine du Canada, à ses héritiers et successeurs et je jure d’observer fidèlement les lois du Canada et de remplir loyalement mes obligations de citoyen canadien.

Affirmation solennelle J’affirme solennellement que je serai fidèle et porterai sincère allégeance à Sa Majesté la Reine Elizabeth Deux, Reine du Canada, à ses héritiers et successeurs, que j’observerai fidèlement les lois du Canada et que je remplirai loyalement mes obligations de citoyen canadien.

40 A Look at Canada For More Information

Canadian citizenship • The Canada Yearbook (published by Statistics Canada) Obtain a copy of the pamphlet How to Become a Canadian Citizen • Canada: A Portrait (published by and other citizenship application Statistics Canada) information. • How Canadians Govern Themselves (written by , By telephone published by Public Works and Call Centre Numbers Government Services Canada. It In Montréal (514) 496-1010 can also be found on-line at the In Toronto (416) 973-4444 Library of Parliament at In Vancouver (604) 666-2171 www.parl.gc.ca) • The Canadian Encyclopedia For all other areas within Canada, call (published by McClelland & 1 888 242-2100 (toll-free). Stewart) Note: If you are calling from outside Canada, contact the Canadian embassy, high • The Junior Encyclopedia of Canada commission or consulate in your region. (published by Hurtig Publishers, distributed by McClelland & On-line Stewart) Federal programs Visit the Citizenship and Immigration and services Web site at www.cic.gc.ca. A Look at • The Story of Canada (written by Canada can be downloaded from this Janet Lunn and Christopher Moore, You can obtain Web site. published by Lester Publishing information about Ltd.) Canada by telephone Citizenship classes • Symbols of Nationhood (published or on the Internet: • Contact schools and colleges in by Public Works and Government your area. Services Canada) Telephone: • Go to your local library or 1 800 0-Canada • Canada: A People’s History community centre. (1 800 622-6232) (Canadian Broadcasting (toll-free) • Contact local settlement agencies Corporation). A variety of resources TTY 1 800 465-7735 or ethnocultural associations. based on the CBC series that (toll-free) began airing in October 2000 are Canada available. Ask the public library if Internet: they have the VHS videos, the The Government of Ask a librarian to help you find books Canada Web site DVDs, the CDs, or the books for and videotapes about Canada. You contains information adults and children. could begin by asking for these about all government books: programs and services. It can be found at www.canada.gc.ca

A Look at Canada 41 Citizenship Test: Questions

The questions in the citizenship test Section I: Questions are based on information provided in about Canada this booklet. The test includes questions about Aboriginal Peoples

• the right to vote in elections 1. Who are the Aboriginal peoples in Canada; of Canada?

• the right to run for elected office; 2. What are the three main groups of Aboriginal peoples? •voting procedures in Canada and how to register yourself as a voter; 3. From whom are the Métis descended? • Canada’s main historical and geographical features; 4. Which group of Aboriginal peoples make up more than half the • the rights and responsibilities of a population of the Northwest citizen; Te rritories and Nunavut? • the structure of Canadian 5. Why are the Aboriginal peoples of government; and Canada working toward self- • Confederation. government?

You should also be ready to answer History (answers can be found in more specific questions about your the sections on regions of Canada) region’s economy, geography and 1. Where did the first European history. Use the questions below to settlers in Canada come from? prepare for your test. All the answers to the questions in Section I can be 2. Why did the early explorers first found in this booklet. come to Atlantic Canada?

Section II contains questions about 3. What three industries helped the your region. You will have to find the early settlers build communities in answers to these questions yourself. the Atlantic region? 4. Who were the United Empire Loyalists?

5. When did settlers from France first establish communities on the St. Lawrence River?

42 A Look at Canada 6. Which trade spread across Canada, Rights and Responsibilities making it important to the 1. What part of the Constitution economy for over 300 years? legally protects the basic rights 7. What form of transportation did and freedoms of all Canadians? Aboriginal peoples and fur traders 2. When did the Canadian Charter of use to create trading networks in Rights and Freedoms become part North America? of the Canadian Constitution? 8. What important trade did the 3. Name two fundamental freedoms Hudson’s Bay Company control? protected by the Canadian Charter 9. What did the government do to of Rights and Freedoms. make immigration to western 4. Name three legal rights protected Canada much easier? by the Canadian Charter of Rights Confederation/Government and Freedoms.

1. What does Confederation mean? 5. List three ways in which you can protect the environment. 2. What is the Canadian Constitution? 6. Who has the right to apply for a Canadian passport? 3. What year was Confederation? 7. What does equality under the law 4. When did the British North America mean? Act come into effect? 8. Name six responsibilities of 5. Why is the British North America citizenship. Act important in Canadian history? 9. Give an example of how you can 6. Which four provinces first formed show responsibility by Confederation? participating in your community.

7. Which was the last province to join 10. List four rights Canadian citizens Canada? have.

8. When is Canada Day and what 11. What will you promise when you does it celebrate? take the Oath of Citizenship? 9. Who was the first ?

10. Why is the Constitution Act, 1982 important in Canadian history?

A Look at Canada 43 Languages Geography

1. What are the two official 1. What is the ? ? 2. What three oceans border on 2. Give an example of where ? and French have equal status in 3. What is the capital city of Canada? Canada. 4. Name all the provinces and 3. Where do most French-speaking territories and their capital cities. Canadians live? 5. Name the five regions of Canada. 4. Which province has the most bilingual Canadians? 6. Which region covers more than one-third of Canada? 5. Which province is the only officially bilingual province? 7. In which region do more than half the people in Canada live? Symbols 8. One-third of all Canadians live in 1. What does the Canadian flag which province? look like? 9. Where are the ? 2. What song is Canada’s national anthem? 10. Where are the Great Lakes?

3. Give the first two lines of Canada’s 11. Which mountain range is on the national anthem. border between Alberta and British Columbia? 4. Where does the name “Canada” come from? 12. Where are the Parliament buildings located? 5. Which animal is an official symbol of Canada? 13. Which country borders Canada on the south? 6. What is the tower in the centre of the Parliament buildings called? 14. What are the Prairie provinces? 15. Which province in Canada is the smallest in land size?

16. What is a major river in Quebec?

17. On what date did Nunavut become a territory?

44 A Look at Canada Economy 10. Who do members of Parliament represent? 1. What are the three main types of industries in Canada? 11. How does a bill become law?

2. In what industry do most 12. What are the three levels of Canadians work? government in Canada?

3. What country is Canada’s largest 13. Name two responsibilities for trading partner? each level of government.

4. Which region is known as the 14. What is the government of all industrial and manufacturing of Canada called? heartland of Canada? Federal Elections 5. Which region of Canada is known for both its fertile agricultural land 1. How many electoral districts are and valuable energy resources? there in Canada? 2. In what electoral district do you Federal Government live? 1. Who is Canada’s Head of State? 3. Who has the right to vote in 2. Who is the Queen’s representative federal elections? in Canada? 4. What three requirements must you 3. What is the name of the Governor meet in order to vote in a federal General? election?

4. What do you call the Queen’s 5. What is written on a federal representative in the provinces? election ballot?

5. What is Canada’s system of 6. What do you mark on a federal government called? election ballot?

6. What are the three parts of 7. How is the government formed Parliament? after an election?

7. Explain how the levels of 8. How is the Prime Minister chosen? government are different. 9. When does an election have to be 8. What do you call a law before it is held according to the passed? Constitution?

9. How are members of Parliament chosen?

A Look at Canada 45 10. Name all the federal political Section II. Questions about parties in the House of Commons your region and their leaders. 1. What is the capital city of the 11. Which party becomes the official province or territory in which you opposition? live?

12. What is the role of the opposition 2. List three natural resources parties? important to your region’s economy today. 13. Which party is the official opposition at the federal level? 3. Who is your city councillor, alderperson, reeve or regional 14. Name the Prime Minister of councillor? Canada and his party. 4. What is the name of your mayor? 15. Name your member of Parliament and the party he or 5. What is the name of your she belongs to. provincial representative (member of the Legislative Assembly, 16. What is a voter information card? member of the provincial 17. Who has the right to run as a Parliament, member of the candidate in federal elections? National Assembly or member of the House of Assembly)? 18. Who do Canadians vote for in a federal election? 6. What is the name of the premier of your province or territory? 19. What do political parties do? 7. Which political party is in power in 20. Which federal political party is your province or territory? in power? 8. What is the name of the leader of 21. How are senators chosen? the opposition in your province? 22. What should you do if you do 9. What is the name of your not receive a voter information lieutenant governor or card telling you when and where commissioner? to vote?

23. After a federal election, which party forms the new government?

46 A Look at Canada These questions have been developed as a study guide. Your citizenship test is made up of similar questions.

Sample Question

Answer this question. Draw a circle around the letter beside the correct answer.

What are the colours of the Canadian flag? a) red, white and blue b) red and white c) blue and white d) red, orange and green

The answer to this question is (b). You should have put a circle around the (b) like this: a) red, white and blue b) red and white c) blue and white d) red, orange and green

There is only one correct answer to each question.

A Look at Canada 47