Overview

Students will debate a proposed bylaw on the Curfew Bell to assist them in understanding how municipal governments worked in 1909 and the present. 

Curriculum Connections

Written to complement the Grade 6 Social Studies curriculum. The program addresses the following curriculum objectives:

6.1.1 Recognize how individuals and governments interact and bring about change within their local and national communities:

• Recognize and respect the democratic rights of all citizens in Canada.

• Value the role of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms in protecting individual and collective rights and freedoms.

• Recognize the influence of historical events and legislation on democratic decision making in Canada.

• Value citizens’ participation in a democratic society.

• Value the contributions of elected representatives in the democratic process.

6.1.4 Analyze the structure and functions of local governments in Alberta by exploring and reflecting upon the following questions and issues:

• How are representatives chosen to form a local government (i.e., electoral process)?

• What are the responsibilities of local governments (i.e., bylaws, taxes, services)?

• How are local governments structured differently in rural and urban settings?

6.1.6 Analyze how individuals, groups and associations within a community impact decision making of local and provincial governments by exploring and reflecting upon the following questions and issues:

• How can individuals, groups and associations within a community participate in the decision-making process regarding current events or issues (i.e., lobbying, petitioning, organizing and attending local meetings and rallies, contacting elected representatives)?

• In what ways do elected officials demonstrate their accountability to the electorate (e.g., respond to constituents, participate in local events, represent and express in government meetings the concerns of constituents)?