History, Grades 7 and 8
The study of history in Grades 7 and 8 builds on the skills, attitudes and knowledge developed in social studies in Grades 1 to 6 and supports the further study of Canadian history in Grade 10.
The Grade 7 and 8 history program provides students with an overview of Canadian history, from significant events in colonial North America during the early eighteenth century to issues facing a young nation on the eve of World War I. It provides students with opportunities to learn about Canada and its interconnections with other parts of the world. Students learn that Canada has many stories and that each one is significant and requires thoughtful consideration. Students begin to apply the concepts of historical thinking as they become active participants in their learning and understanding of Canadian history.
Here is some of what students will learn in Grades 7 and 8 in history.
Grade 7
New France and British North America, 1713 to 1800
Students learn about the social, political, economic and legal changes in Canada between 1713 and 1800. They learn about the experiences and challenges faced by various groups and communities, including First Nations, Métis and Inuit communities in Canada at that time. Students investigate how different individuals and groups responded to the shift in power in Canada from France to Britain. They build their understanding of the impact that historical events of that time had then and still have in the present day.
Canada, 1800 to 1850: conflict and challenges
Students continue learning about challenges and experiences of the various groups and communities, including First Nations, Métis and Inuit communities, that lived in Canada at that time. They develop an understanding of the impact of the major conflicts and changes that happened during the first half of the nineteenth century. In addition, students learn about the treaties made between Indigenous nations and imperial powers in Canada between 1800 and 1850.
Grade 8
Creating Canada, 1850 to 1890
Students examine the internal and external forces that led to Confederation and the expansion of the Dominion of Canada. They analyze the impact of these developments on people in Canada, including First Nations, Métis and Inuit, as well as new immigrants. Students also consider the impact of the Indian Act, the residential school system, the Numbered Treaties and systemic racism on Indigenous individuals and communities in Canada.
Canada, 1890 to 1914: A changing society
Students explore the experiences and challenges facing people who lived in Canada around the beginning of the twentieth century and compare them to those facing people who live in present-day Canada. Through an examination of inequalities in the new nation, students build an understanding of the rights and freedoms we have in Canada today that are the result of actions taken by people in this era to change their lives.