Lesson Plan

Printable Version (PDF)

Title

Internet Search Assignment: Question Period

Audience

Grade 5 and up

Overview

Give students the opportunity to explore the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia website and familiarize themselves with various sections.

Objectives

• Familiarize students with symbols and traditions used within parliamentary procedure and institutions
• Review roles and responsibilities of key components of parliamentary democracy
• Acquire vocabulary associated with political and parliamentary terminology
• Acquire knowledge associated with parliamentary democracy
• Research the electoral process in British Columbia
• Enhance the understanding of how bills become laws
• Further develop computer skills
• Identify and describe the importance of neutrality.

Activities and Method

INTERNET SEARCH ASSIGNMENT

Go to the following site: http://www.leg.bc.ca

Printable Version of Assignment (PDF)

Part One: Members

See Appendix A

Part Two: Legislation

See Appendix B

Part Three: Place

See Appendix C

Final Task:

Go to the Interactive tab, and select the parliamentary picture puzzle for the PURPOSE of the Legislative Assembly. Play the game, drawing on what you have learned in this internet search exercise, and research the site for the answers.

Call the teacher over when your puzzle is complete!

CONGRATULATIONS! Now, for a bonus mark, come up with a question you think your teacher can’t answer, and try your luck! (They’ll get back to you tomorrow!)

Preparation (by teacher and by students)

• Arrange for computer lab availability
• Explore the site http://www.leg.bc.ca

Duration of Activity

One to two classes.

Learning Outcomes

Students will be able to

• Become familiar with symbols and traditions used within parliamentary procedures and institutions
• Explain roles and responsibilities of key components of parliamentary democracy
• Use vocabulary associated political terminology
• Understand parliamentary democracy and the electoral process in British Columbia
• Use internet research skills
• Explain how bills become laws

Materials & Resources

Computer lab with internet access to: http://www.leg.bc.ca

Evaluation of Activity

Students submit completed assignment.

Submitted By:

Catherine Carnrite, Frank Hurt Secondary, School District # 36 (Surrey)
Denis Drapeau, L’Anse-au-Sable High School, School District 93 (Conseil scolaire francophone)
Susan Egan, Vernon Secondary, School District #22, (Vernon)
Janet Oakes, Semiahmoo Trail Elementary, School District #36 (Surrey)
Tom Powell, David Thompson Elementary, School District #73 (Kamloops/Thompson)

NOTE: The ideas and opinions expressed in this classroom activity belong to their authors and do not necessarily reflect those of the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia. The Public Education and Outreach office only edits for clarity.

Appendix – Handouts

Printable Version of Appendix A (PDF)

Appendix A

Part 1:  Members

1. What do the letters M.L.A. stand for?

2. How many MLA’s are in the province of British Columbia?

3. What is the name of your electoral district or constituency?

4. Who is your MLA?

5. What party does he or she represent?

6. Where does your MLA sit in the House?

7. How much remuneration (pay) does an MLA receive?

8. Write a brief biography of your MLA in your own words.

9. So… you love politics! List the steps involved in becoming an MLA.

Printable Version of Appendix B (PDF)

Appendix B

Part 2:  Legislation

1. In point form, briefly describe each step in the process of making a bill into a law, using the following outline

First Reading:

Second Reading:

Committee Stage:

Third Reading:

Royal Assent:

Proclamation:

Printable Version of Appendix C (PDF)

Appendix C

Part 3:  Place

Explore the Place section of the website, take the building tour, and answer the following questions.

Click on the green and orange balls on the building diagram and explore each level. Hold your mouse down on the photo to enjoy a 360 degree panoramic view!

Level One

1. What is the main attraction in the Lower Rounda?

Level Two

2. Explain what the mace was originally used for.

3. How many flags are in the Legislative Chamber?

4. How many columns surround the entrance to the Legislative Library (count them!)

Level Three

5. There are four galleries overlooking the Legislative Chamber. The gallery above the Speaker’s Chair is reserved for which group?

6. The public gallery directly above the Speaker’s Chair houses what recording facilities?

Exterior

7. Why was the Premier’s rose garden created?

8. Describe the view from the main dome.