Course Profile   The Americas: Geographic Patterns and Issues, Grade 11, University/College Preparation, Catholic and Public

 

 

Unit 4:  Geopolitics in the Americas

Time:  25 hours

 

Activity 4.1 | Activity 4.2 | Activity 4.3 | Activity 4.4 | Activity 4.5 | Activity 4.6 | Activity 4.7

Unit Description

Students identify and analyse the impact of international aid on the Americas, the geopolitical role of countries, and the trade patterns and alliances in selected regions of the Americas. Canada has a significant role in developing humanitarian assistance, political dialogue, and economic cooperation with the rest of the countries in the Americas. The backdrop of this unit is the examination of national and international pathways and barriers that countries face in fulfilling their economic, social, and cultural aspirations. Throughout history, the United States has commanded an important economic and geopolitical role in the development of the Americas and students debate the merits of that involvement. The culminating activity of this unit involves students in developing a rationale for a Social Justice and Development symposium, in light of Gospel values and Catholic social teachings. This rationale may include various governmental, non-governmental, and transnational organizations to give a balanced perspective on the issues of social justice and development in the Americas.

Unit Synopsis Chart

Activity

Time

Expectations

Assessment

Student Tasks

4.1: Foreign Aid in the Americas

200 min

GCV.01, UCV.02, UCV.03, GC1.08, UC1.03, UC1.04, GI2.04; CGE 1d, 2a, 5e, 7h

Knowledge/
Understanding Communication

Aid comparison chart

Supported opinion paper

4.2: Case Study: Foreign Aid in Selected Countries of the Americas

200 min

GCV.01, UCV.02, UCV.03, GIV.04, UC1.02, UC1.05, UC2.04, UC3.03, GC1.05, GI2.03; CGE 1e, 2c, 3a, 4d, 7e

Knowledge/
Understanding

Thinking/Inquiry

Communication

Application

Group work

Oral presentation

4.3: United States Foreign Policy in the Americas

200 min

GCV.01, GCV.03, GIV.01, GC1.02, GC2.04, GC3.01, GI3.02; CGE 1h, 2b, 3f, 7g

Knowledge/
Understanding

Thinking/Inquiry

Communication

Application

Group work

Mapping

Note taking

4.4: The Role of the Transnationals in the Americas

200 min

GCV.01, UCV.02, GIV.02, GC3.01, GC3.04, UC1.05, GI3.02; CGE 2c, 4a, 7g

Knowledge/
Understanding

Thinking/Inquiry

Communication

Graphing

Mapping

Supported opinion paper

4.5: Emerging Powers: Statistical Analysis of the Americas

200 min

GCV.03, GCV.04, UCV.01, GIV.02, GC1.02, GC1.06, UC1.05, GI2.03; CGE 2a, 3f

Thinking/Inquiry

Application

Group work

Statistical analysis

4.6: Trade Alliances: Their Implication and Future

300 min

GCV.03, GCV.04, UCV.01, GC3.02, GC3.05, SS1.04; CGE 3c, 3f, 7f

Knowledge/
Understanding

Thinking/Inquiry

Group work

Mapping

Supported opinion paper

Oral presentation

4.7: Culminating Activity/ Symposium on the Americas

200 min

UCV.03, GIV.03, GI2.01, GI2.05, GI3.03, GC3.05, UC1.05; CGE 1g, 1h, 1i, 4c, 5a, 5c, 5d, 5f

Knowledge/
Understanding

Thinking/Inquiry

Group work

Research process

Oral presentation

Supported opinion paper

 

Activity 4.1:  Foreign Aid in the Americas

Time:  200 minutes

Description

This activity allows the student to examine the benefits to Canada of giving foreign aid to underdeveloped countries in the Americas and to evaluate the role and impact of aid programs (e.g., government (CIDA (Canadian International Development Agency) verses NGOs (non-government organization). This activity allows students to demonstrate an understanding of the difficulties challenging developing countries and the responsibilities Canada and NGOs have to assist them. With this, students can turn to specific countries and evaluate the impact of development projects on the poorest countries in the region (Activity 4.2).

Strand(s) & Learning Expectations

Ontario Catholic School Graduate Expectations

CGE 1d - develops attitudes and values founded on Catholic social teaching and acts to promote social responsibility, human solidarity, and the common good;

CGE 2a - listens actively and critically to understand and learn in light of gospel values;

CGE 5e - respects the rights, responsibilities, and contributions of self and others;

CGE 7h - exercises the rights and responsibilities of Canadian citizenship.

Strand(s):  Global Connections, Understanding and Managing Change, Methods of Geographic Inquiry

Overall Expectations

GCV.01 - evaluate the impact of the global economy on the environment and peoples of the Americas;

UCV.02 - demonstrate an understanding of the problem of underdevelopment and the difficulties of alleviating it;

UCV.03 - describe and evaluate aid programs and their impacts;

GIV.02 - select and use geographic skills, methods, and technologies to gather, interpret, analyse, evaluate, and communicate information effectively.

Specific Expectations

GC1.08 - describe Canada’s responsibilities to the rest of the countries of the Americas;

UC1.03 - explain the role of the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) in the Americas;

UC1.04 - describe what is meant by NGOs (non-governmental organizations) and describe their contributions to selected countries of the Americas;

GI2.04 - use maps (e.g., sketch maps, thematic maps, mental maps) effectively at various scales to illustrate geographic patterns.

Prior Knowledge & Skills

·         an understanding of the economic and social conditions found in developing countries in relation to the HDI from Unit 3

·         an understanding of the role and principles of CIDA and how to write a supported opinion paper from the Grade 9 Canadian Geography course and Grade 10 Canadian History course

Planning Notes

·         Book computer lab and Library/Resource Centre.

·         Attain a copy of the most recent CIDA annual report.

·         Gather concise readings on the different views on aid.

Teaching/Learning Strategies

1.   The teacher leads students in a brainstorming exercise answering the following questions:
What are the characteristics of developed and underdeveloped countries?
What criteria from the HDI could effectively measure the degree of development in a poor nation?

2.   The teacher shows the video entitled Water, Land, and Survival. Using an organizer designed in class, students in small groups identify the causes and effects of underdevelopment in Third-World Countries, using Brazil as the focus country.

3.   Using the Human Development Index chloropleth map from Unit 3, Activity 2, students should analyse the patterns of high, medium, and low human development. Students should answer the following question “Which countries should be the focus of Canada’s aid priorities?”

4.   The teacher introduces Canada’s responsibility for humanitarian assistance to poor countries by reintroducing the role of CIDA and NGOs in the Americas.

5.   With the aid of the World Wide Web, students investigate the impact that CIDA and NGOs have on selected countries in the Americas (e.g., Honduras, Haiti, and Peru). A chart should be used to enable students to record and compare aid programs, the priorities (goals), types of aid and the impact of aid programs. Using the chart, students answer the following questions (be sure to provide specific examples using the same country to make the comparison): What are the differences and similarities in the goals and type of aid given to poor nations by both aid organizations? How effective are aid programs by the CIDA when they are compared to NGOs? (e.g., impact on HDI)

6.   Students should read the articles entitled A Handout Instead of a Hand up: Where Foreign Aid Fails and The World Can’t Survive Poverty Gap, for homework, and highlight in their notes both views of the issue. The teacher should lead a discussion on the pros and cons for Canada giving foreign aid.

7.   The teacher has students read a brief excerpt entitled Justice and Solidarity Among Nations from the Catechism of the Catholic Church (versus 2437-2440). Given the position of the Catholic Church, students are invited to reflect on the reading and write a one to two-page supporting opinion paper on the following question: “Should Canadian society continue to provide aid to poor nations?”

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Achievement

·         Formative teacher assessment of the aid comparison chart for completion and accuracy (Knowledge/Understanding, Thinking/Inquiry)

·         Formative teacher assessment of the supported opinion (Appendix 4.1.1)

Accommodations

·         For enrichment, the following extension exercise could be added to Strategy 5. Students develop an aid program that will have the greatest positive impact on HDI. Each aid program must first establish its priorities, two short-term and two long-term aid strategies. In both situations, students must provide rationale for each of their aid programs and assess their strengths and weaknesses.

·         The teacher should review individual IEP to determine the reading level of the student in order to determine the difficulty of the reading to be assigned to him/her.

·         If a student’s writing skills are weak then he or she may communicate the research orally.

Resources

Catechism of the Catholic Church. Ottawa: Publications Service, 1994.

Crane, D. “The World Can’t Survive Poverty Gap,” The Toronto Star. September 24, 2000.

A Handout Instead of a Handup: Where Foreign Aid Fails – http://www.frasierinstitute.ca/publications/pps/30/

CIDA Americas Branch – http://www.acdi-cida.gc.ca/americ-e.htm, http://www.acdi-cida.gc.ca/CIDAWEB/webcountry.nsf/americas_e.html

Institute of the Americas – http://www.iamericas.org

World Accord – http:// www.accord.org/Programming/international/international.htm, http://www.accord.org/programming/update/eventupdates.html

Water, Land, and Survival.Brazil Series”. BBC Productions, 1995. 50 min.

Canadian Council of International Cooperation – http://fly.web.net/ccic/devpolicy.htm

Appendix 4.1.1

Rubric for Supported Opinion Paper

Categories/

Criteria

Level 1

(50-59%)

Level 2

(60-69%)

Level 3

(70-79%)

Level 4

(80-100%)

Knowledge/
Understanding

Understanding of concept

- demonstrates a limited understanding of the concepts

- demonstrates some understanding of the concepts

- demonstrates a considerable understanding of the concepts

- demonstrates a high degree of understanding of the concepts

Thinking/
Inquiry

Use of critical thinking skills

- applies creative thinking skills in writing of opinion paper with limited effectiveness

- applies creative thinking skills in writing of opinion paper with moderate effectiveness

- applies creative thinking skills in writing of opinion paper with considerable effectiveness

- applies creative thinking skills in writing of opinion paper with a high degree of effectiveness

Communication

Communicates information through writing

- illustrates concept through writing of the opinion paper with limited effectiveness

- illustrates concept through writing of opinion paper with some effectiveness

- illustrates concept through writing of opinion paper with clarity

- illustrates concept through writing of opinion paper with a high degree of clarity

Application

Application of concept

- demonstrates difficulty in applying the concepts

- demonstrates some ability in applying the concepts

- clearly able to apply the concepts

- applies the concepts effectively

Overall Level:                                                                           Student Name:

Comments:                                                                                Strengths:

Areas to Review:                                                                      Next Steps:

 

Note: A student whose achievement is below level 1 (50%) has not met the expectations for this assignment or activity.

Activity 4.2:  Case Study: Foreign Aid in Selected Countries of the Americas

Time:  200 minutes

Description

This activity allows students to research, write a report, and present the impact that foreign aid has on selected countries in the Americas. Emphasis is placed on Canada’s role and the impact on individual countries: in areas of the economy, on local environments, and on Indigenous peoples.

An evaluation of CIDA and NGO programs, their impacts, and limitations is done.

Strand(s) & Learning Expectations

Ontario Catholic School Graduate Expectations

CGE 1e - speaks the language of life…” recognizing that life is an unearned gift and that a person

Entrusted with life does not own it but that one is called to protect and cherish it” (Witness to Faith);

CGE 2c - presents information and ideas clearly and honestly and with sensitivity to others;

CGE 3a - recognizes there is more grace in our world than sin and that hope is essential in facing all challenges;

CGE 4d - responds to, manages, and constructively influences change in a discerning manner;

CGE 7e - witnesses Catholic social teaching by promoting equality, democracy, and solidarity for a just, peaceful and compassionate society.

Strand(s):  Global Connections, Understanding and Managing Change, Methods of Geographic Inquiry

Overall Expectations

GCV.01- evaluates the impact of the global economy on the environment and peoples of the Americas;

UCV.02 - demonstrates an understanding of the problem of underdevelopment and the difficulties of alleviating it;

UCV.03 - describes and evaluates aid programs and their impacts;

GIV.02 - selects and uses geographic skills, methods, and technologies to gather, interpret, analyse, evaluate, and communicate information effectively.

Specific Expectations

GC1.05 - describe various ways in which individuals, multinational corporations, and governments participate in the international relations of the countries of the Americas;

UC1.02 - describe how development projects in a country affect local environments and economies, indigenous peoples, and other countries;

UC1 05 - identify national and international obstacles that make it difficult for various countries to fulfill their economic, social and cultural aspirations;

UC2.04 - analyse the positive and negative impacts of international aid on the poorest countries of the Americas;

UC3.03 - evaluate Canada’s international aid programs as applied to one of the countries of the Americas;

GI2.03 - use geographic technologies and resources effectively (e.g., Internet) to gather, process, and synthesize information related to geographic issues.

Prior Knowledge & Skills

·         an understanding of the role of transnational corporations from Unit 3 and the Grade 9 Canadian Geography course; executing Internet searches for research from Units 1, 2 and 3

Planning Notes

·         Book computer lab and Library/Resource Centre.

·         Provide students with a list of the poorest countries in the Americas.

·         Provide students with a variety of sources from electronic data bases and other websites.

Teaching/Learning Strategies

1.   The teacher introduces a report/presentation activity of a country in the Americas. A list should be provided from which students in small groups may select a country for their case study. The teacher acts as a facilitator whereby Internet sources and databases are given to direct students in their research.

2.   Students are instructed to find information that answers the following questions:

·         What are the economic and social conditions challenging their selected country?

·         What are the priorities and responsibilities of CIDA in terms of aid in this country?

·         What is the role of other organizations (e.g., NGOs, transnational corporations, environmental groups, and educational institutions) and what impact have they had on addressing the development concerns of this country?

·         What has been the impact of development projects on the economy, local environment, and indigenous people of the selected country?

·         How does government (CIDA) aid differ in approach versus NGOs? Are there any differences/similarities in their programs?

·         What are the limitations facing the aid programs from the CIDA and NGOs?

·         Does the aid given to the selected country address the issues of social justice as discussed in Activity 1? Provide examples.

3.   Students are allotted 3-5 minutes to make a brief presentation of their selected country. The rest of the class takes notes on each presentation, highlighting the organizations involved in aid, their goals, the impact, and their limitations.

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Achievement

·         Formative assessment of group work

·         A presentation rubric, designed and discussed by the class to assess the presentations
(Appendix 4.2.1)

Accommodations

·         Review individual IEP to determine the reading level of the student in order to determine the difficulty of reading assigned to them.

·         Limit the number of resources required for the exercise.

·         Arrange for a peer to assist with the use of technology.

Resources

CIDA Americas Branch – http://www.acdi-cida.gc.ca/americ-e.htm

CIDA and the Americas – http://www.acdi-cida.gc.ca/CIDAWEB/webcountry.nsf/americas_e.html

Institute of the Americas – http://iamericas.org/

World Accord – http://www.worldaccord.org/Programming/international/international/htm

http://www.worldaccord.org/programming/update/eventupdates.html

United Nations Development Programs – http://www.undp.org/popin/regional/latam/lac.htm

North American Congress of Latin America – http://www.nacla.org/

Caza Alianza – http://www.casa-alianza.org/EN/index-en.html

Americas Canada: The Cyber Hemisphere – http://www.ameriquescanada.org

Davis, Shelton and William Partridge. Promoting the Development of Indigenous People in Latin America. New York: Finance and Development (International Monetary Fund & World Bank), 1994,
pp. 38-40.

Development and Peace – http://www.devp.org/testA/overseas.htm, http://www.devp.org/test A/public/globalvillagevoicev24n2.htm#peru, http://www.devp.org/testA/news.htm

Appendix 4.2.1

Presentation Rubric

 

Categories

Level 1

(50-59%)

Level 2

(60-69%)

Level 3

(70-79%)

Level 4

(80-100%)

Knowledge/ Understanding

- demonstrates limited knowledge of relevant facts and terms, understanding of relevant concepts, understanding of how concepts are related

- demonstrates some knowledge of relevant facts and terms, understanding of relevant concepts, understanding of how concepts are related

- demonstrates considerable knowledge of relevant facts and terms, understanding of relevant concepts, understanding of how concepts are related

- demonstrates thorough knowledge of relevant facts and terms, understanding of relevant concepts, understanding of how concepts are related

Thinking/ Inquiry

- demonstrates limited awareness of points of view when presenting information

- responses are unclear and may lack appropriateness

- demonstrates some awareness of points of view when presenting information

- responses are somewhat clear and appropriate

- takes into account points of view when presenting information

- responses are clear and appropriate

- skilfully acknowledges points of view when presenting information

- responses are clear, appropriate, and insightful

Communication

- opening lacks clarity

 

- information is presented with significant lapses in logic

- conclusion lacks clarity

 

- use of visuals may be ineffective

- opening introduces topic

 

- information is presented with some lapses in logic

- conclusion partially clear

 

- use of visuals is effective to some degree

- opening clearly introduces topic

 

- information is presented in a logical sequence

 

- conclusion is clear and effective

 

- use of visuals is effective

- opening is engaging and though-provoking

- information is presented in a logically and insightfully

- conclusion is clear, effective, and insightful

- visuals are used in highly effective ways

Communication (Language)

- majority of the language used is hard to follow and understand: questions are formulated with limited focus

- some of the language used is difficult to follow and questions are formulated with some focus

- most of the language, terms, and questions used are easy to follow and understand

- language, terms, and questions used are well chosen, easy to follow and understand

Application and Making Connections

- shows limited insight in applying findings to other situations

- shows some insight in applying findings to other situations

- demonstrates good insight in applying findings to other situations

- clearly and creatively shows insight in applying findings to other situations

Overall Level:                                                               Student Name:

Strengths:                                                                      Areas to Review:

Next Steps:

Note: A student whose achievement is below level 1 (50%) has not met the expectations for this assignment or activity.

 

Activity 4.3:  United States’ Foreign Policy in the Americas

Time:  200 minutes

Description

Students examine the military and political impact the United States has on various countries in the Americas. Students identify factors that lead to military alliances and analyse examples using selected countries.

Strand(s) & Learning Expectations

Ontario Catholic School Graduate Expectations

CGE 1h - respects the faith traditions, world religions and the life-journeys of all people of good will;

CGE 2b - reads, understands, and uses written materials effectively;

CGE 3f - examines, evaluates, and applies knowledge of interdependent systems for the development of a just and compassionate society;

CGE 7g - respects and understands the history, cultural heritage and pluralism of today’s contemporary society.

Strand(s):  Global Connections, Methods of Geographic Inquiry

Overall Expectations

GCV.01 - evaluate the impact of the global economy on the environment and peoples of the Americas;

GCV.03 - analyse the economic and geopolitical implications of trading blocs and agreements such as the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and Mercosur (Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, and Chile), multilateral organizations such as the Organization of American States (OAS), and selected bilateral agreements and alliances;

GIV.01 - use planning, forecasting, decision-making and problem solving techniques appropriately to interpret and analyse trends and issues.

Specific Expectations

GC1.02 - identify factors that lead to the grouping of nations for military and economic purposes;

GC2.04 - analyse key aspects of the geopolitical role played by the United States in the Americas throughout its history;

GC3.01 - identify and analyse selected examples of relationships that have developed between regions because of environmental problems, resource needs, and border conflicts;

GI3.03 - demonstrate an understanding of different points of view on an issue.

Prior Knowledge & Skills

·         an understanding of reasons for military alliances; in particular, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and the North American Aerospace Defence Agreement (NORAD) from Grade 10 History

·         Canada’s changing relationship with the United States especially in support for American foreign policy initiatives in the Americas (e.g., US invasion of Grenada and Panama) and being punished for continued trade with Cuba under the Helms-Burton bill, introduced in Grade 10 History

Planning Notes

·         Book the Library/Resource Centre or computer lab.

·         Gather statistical, military, and historical data for selected countries of the Americas, including the United States. This may include newsmagazines, newspapers, textbooks, maps, almanacs, electronic encyclopaedias, and other reference materials.

·         Prepare brief readings on specific military events involving the US and other Latin American countries.

Teaching/Learning Strategies

1.   The teacher should lead the class in a brief review exercise answering the following question: “What is the definition of foreign policy?” (Foreign policy is a collection of goals and objectives which one government tries to obtain in its relations with other countries.) Reach a class consensus on the definition and place it on the board.

2.   Have students construct a timeline, from 1776 to the present, of American foreign policy events using various references (one can be constructed for them prior to this lesson to conform to time constraints). Instruct each student to identify one major event in US history and determine what the goals of the US foreign policy were at the time of the event. Have students compare their responses and help them note changes in American foreign policy over the years.

3.   Have students read an article such as “Current Issues in Global Education” and discuss specific foreign policies, such as isolationism, imperialism, containment, and Manifest Destiny.

4.   Instruct students to choose one of the above policies and direct them to relate those policies to specific crises in Latin America (Isolationism?-Falkland Islands War; Monroe Doctrine-1823-independence movements in Mexico, Venezuela, Cuba, Panama, Nicaragua; Big Stick Policy-1900-American business interests in Cuba, Dominican Republic and Panama; Dollar Diplomacy-1910 to1930-American business interests; Good Neighbour policy-1930s-Mexico controlled foreign businesses; Organization of American States (OAS)-1948; Alliance for Progress-1960s-fostering democracy and promoting economic development; Containment of Communist Revolutions-1970s and 1980s-Supply arms to Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua, and invasions of Grenada, Haiti and Panama). Students should take notes that address the following: policy, countries involved, when and why did it occur, and historical background of the period. Do not allow students to become bogged down in overly complex analysis of US foreign policy. Limit their research time accordingly.

5.   Using a blank map of the Americas, students label the countries where the crisis occurred. Students identify countries within the US sphere of influence. Terms like ‘fight or flight zones’, ‘Domino Theory’, and Cold War Era may be introduced.

6.   Use class time to share and discuss who makes US foreign policy, describe how policy is formulated, and describe changes in US foreign policy throughout history.

7.   Conclude by using the series of questions listed below, to spark a discussion in which students speculate on future US foreign policy.

·         How will the US maintain its position in the world without what were once thought to be critical military-presence sites (e.g., the Panama Canal Zone)?

·         Will Cuba continue to be defiant towards the American pressure to become democratic?

·         Will Latin America remain stable or be destabilized by civil wars and revolutions?

·         How can the US perform in what has become its customary way with a downsized military?

·         What should be the role of the US in the highly discussed New World Order?

8.   Possible extensions are a Human Interactive Outline to diagram a hypothetical crisis on the board. Illustrate a continuing escalation of violence (may involve drug cartels or guerrilla insurgence and have students determine the scope of US involvement at each step and generate alternatives for defusing the crises.

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Achievement

·         Roving conferences to ensure students stay on track (Learning Skills)

·         Formative teacher assessment of completion and accuracy of notes (Knowledge/Understanding)

·         Formative teacher assessment of maps using the Map Scoring Tool (Appendix 4.3.1)

Accommodations

·         Accommodations should be made for students who have difficulty recording and/or synthesizing information. Individuals with these special needs could be grouped with students who are able to assist with their needs.

·         Provide a summary of notes or a scribe for students with visual, copy, or output problems.

·         Preview specific vocabulary with students or provide a glossary of terms for reference.

·         For enrichment, the extension exercise in Strategy 8 should be used.

Resources

Fryer, Wesley A. Mexican Security, (24 August/93) – http://wtvi.com/wesley/mexicansecurity.html

Griffith, Ivelaw L. Caribbean security on the Eve of the 21st Century. McNair Paper54. Washington, D.C. (October 1996). – http://www.ndu.edu/ndu/inss/mcnair/mcnair54/m54cont.html

Just the Facts: A Civilian Guide to the US Defence and Security Assistance to Latin America and the Caribbean. The Latin America Working Group and Centre for International Policy. http://www.cipoline.org/facts/

Jefferson, Carolyn, et al. “Current Issues in Global Education,” The Centre for Learning, 1998. Villa Maria, PA. 16155

Kagan, Robert, “There to Stay: The US and Latin America,” The National Interest. Washington, DC. Spring 1990.

Kennedy, Edward M. “The Panama Invasion,” Congressional Record. 23 January, 1990, pp. S12-S14.

Lee Van Cott, Donna. Defiant Again: Indigenous Peoples and Latin American Security. McNair Paper 53. Washington, DC: October 1996. – http://www.ndu.edu/ndu/inss/mcnair/mcnair53/m53cont.html

Zelinski, Draper, Quinlan, and McFadden. Twentieth Century Viewpoints: An Interpretive History. Toronto: Oxford University Press, 1996.

Appendices

Appendix 4.3.1 – Map Scoring Tool

Appendix 4.3.1

Map Scoring Tool

Map Topic: ________________________      Name: _________________________

Checklist

Description

Score

Title

printed neatly, located at the top of the page, clearly reflects the topic

2

Legend

positioned in an appropriate place, quality construction, accuracy of labels and symbols, useful to reader

2

Labels

printed neatly, aligned carefully, conventions followed, correct spelling, features labelled

2

Direction Indicator

positioned in an appropriate area, quality construction, printed neatly, aligned carefully

2

Scale

positioned in an appropriate area, quality construction, printed neatly, accurate

2

Border

drawn neatly, aligned carefully, conventions followed

2

Appearance

- effective use of colour, shading and/or ruler

4

Features Mapped

- accuracy of features mapped

6

Activity 4.4:  The Role of the Transnational in the Americas

Time:  200 minutes

Description

Students identify and evaluate the role of a selected transnational corporation in several countries in the Americas. Students identify obstacles, both national and international, that make it difficult for these countries to fulfill their economic, social, and cultural goals.

Strand(s) & Learning Expectations

Ontario Catholic School Graduate Expectations

CGE 2c - presents information and ideas clearly and honestly and with sensitivity to others;

CGE 4a - demonstrates a confident and positive sense of self and respect for the dignity and welfare of others;

CGE 7g - respects and understands the history, cultural heritage, and pluralism of today’s contemporary society.

Strand(s):  Global Connections, Understanding and Managing Change, Methods of Geographic Inquiry

Overall Expectations

GCV.01 - evaluate the impact of the global economy on the environment and the peoples of the Americas;

UCV.02 - demonstrate an understanding of the problem of underdevelopment and the difficulties of alleviating it;

GIV.02 - select and use geographic skills, methods, and technologies to gather, interpret, analyse, evaluate, and communicate information effectively.

Specific Expectations

GC3.01 - identify and analyse selected examples of relationships that have developed between regions because of environmental problems, resource needs, and border conflicts;

GC3.04 - evaluate the role played by a selected transnational corporation in the economic development of a region in the Americas;

UC1.05 - identify national and international obstacles that make it difficult for various countries to fulfill their economic, social, and cultural aspirations;

GI3.02 - demonstrate an understanding of different points of view on an issue.

Prior Knowledge & Skills

·         an understanding of how Canada’s trade and investment affects Latin America from Unit 3

·         an understanding of how world trade impacts on Latin America from Unit 3

·         graphing and mapping skills from the Grade 9 Canadian Geography course

Planning Notes

·         Gather statistical trade data for selected transnational corporations and selected countries.

·         Prepare brief readings on each of the selected transnational corporations and selected countries.

Teaching /Learning Strategies

1.   Students create a line graph showing the “Foreign Direct Investment to Latin America and the Caribbean from 1980-1999”. Students identify the increase in foreign investment in Latin America and the Caribbean.

2.   Students create a proportional map (isotransnational map) showing the share of transnational subsidiaries in Latin America. Once this map is been created, the next step is to shade in the countries using the chloropleth technique. The chloropleth shade classes are based on the “Share of Gross National Product Exported as Payment on Foreign Direct Investment.” (Data source: United Nation Commission on Transnational Corporations, 2000.)

3.   Students should notice trends and patterns (e.g., certain countries have a large export of hard currency to foreign countries). Students are to brainstorm the effects of this movement of money on those countries most affected.

4.   For homework, students read four short articles indicating the benefits and consequences of allowing transnational corporations in a developed country. The articles “FDI by Transnationals May Top US$1 Trillion This Year: UNCTAD,” Asia Pulse, 10-04-2000 and “Trade-Latam: Record growth in Foreign Direct Investment,” Inter Press Service News Wire, 10-05-2000 show the benefits of having transnational corporations and the next two articles, “Economy: Latin America Takes One Step Forward, One Step back,” Inter Press Service English Wire, 05-08-2000 and “Earth Predators (transnational corporations),” Dollars and Sense, 07-17-1998, pp. 7 (1), show the consequences. Students then develop a benefit/consequence organizer for transnational corporations.

5.   Once students complete the organizer, the teacher aids students to synthesis the responses in the organizer. Then the teacher hands out articles on a specific transnational corporation for homework. Students create a list of the accomplishments and drawbacks that this corporation has exhibited in economic development of a developed country.

6.   Once the case study is complete, students read excerpts from the Catechism of the Catholic Church on economic activity and social justice (verses 2426 to 2463) and write a 200- to 300-word, supported opinion paper on the topic – “Are transnational corporations good for Latin American countries?”

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Achievement

·         Summative assessments using the opinion paper rubric. (4.1.1) (Thinking/Inquiry, Communication)

·         Formative assessment of graphs (Appendix 4.4.1) maps (Appendix 4.3.2), and organizer.

Accommodations

·         Review student’s IEP and determine if particular accommodations are required.

·         Provide individual support in locating countries, creating map, and graphs.

·         For students who are gifted or academically talented the following extension exercise could be added to Strategy 6. As an extension, students develop a multimedia approach that would encourage transnational corporations to become good corporate citizens providing rationale for their position.

Resources

Bouabid, Ihsan. “Indigenous people fight globalization” Terraviva: Inter Press Service Daily Journal, Vol. 8 No. 95. Thursday, May 25, 2000. http://www.milleniumforum.org/html/news/tv052500.pdf

Catechism of the Catholic Church. Doubleday, 1995.

“Earth Predators. (transnational corporations),” Dollars and Sense, 07-17-1998, pp. 7 (1).

Economic data – http://sima-ext.worldbank.org

“Economic Justice For All.” US National Conference of Catholic Bishops, 1995.

“Economy: Latin America Takes One Step Forward, One Step back.” Inter Press Service English Wire, 05-08-2000.

“FDI by Transnationals May Top US$1 Trillion This Year: UNCTAD. Asia Pulse, 10-04-2000.

Guinness, P. and G. Nagle. U.S. Geography: Concepts and Cases. Hodder & Stoughton, 2000,
pp. 291-294

“In praise of the family firm: it persists for good reasons.” The Economist, Vol. 338, 03-09-1996,
pp. 16 (1).

Korten, David C. “Corporate Accountability: Playing by The Market Rules.” UN Commission on Sustainable Development, Panel on Corporate Accountability, 1999. http://www.ngos.net/globaloney.html

Rojas, Robinson. “Transnational corporations and developing countries.” The Robinson Rojas Archive Libraries. 2001. http://www.rrojasdatabank.org/capital6.htm

Sandrasagra, Mithre J. “Development: FDI to exceed 1 trillion dollars.” Inter Press Service English Wire, 10-03-2000.

“Trade-Latam: Record growth in Foreign Direct Investment.” Inter Press Service News Wire,
10-05-2000.

“World Investment Report 2000.” United Nations Conference on Trade and Development, New York and Geneva, 2000.

Appendices

Appendix 4.4.1 – Graphing Checklist


Appendix 4.4.1

Graphing Checklist

1. Descriptive Title which answers

- What? Where? When?

Yes

No

2. Axis Labels

- Both axes labelled

Yes

No

- Numbers with units

Yes

No

3. Bar Graph

- Bars drawn with ruler

Yes

No

- Appropriate colours

Yes

No

3. Line Graph

- Smooth curve drawn

Yes

No

- Data dots are inconspicuous

Yes

No

3. Divided Circle Graph

- Calculations are correct

Yes

No

- Divisions drawn with a ruler

Yes

No

- Appropriately shaded

Yes

No

4. Attention to Detail

- Data plotted accurately

Yes

No

- Ruler used for axes

Yes

No

- Neatness

Yes

No

- Graph centred on the page

Yes

No

 

Activity 4.5:  Emerging Powers: A Statistical Analysis of the Americas

Time:  200 minutes

Description

Students examine why countries group together to form trading blocs, alliances, and other organizations. Students determine what criteria can be used to classify a country as emerging.

Strand(s) & Learning Expectations

Ontario Catholic School Graduate Expectations

CGE 2a - listens actively and critically to understand and learn in light of gospel values;

CGE 3f - examines, evaluates, and applies knowledge of interdependent systems (physical, political, ethical, socio-economic, and ecological) for the development of a just and compassionate society.

Strand(s):  Global Connections, Understanding and Managing Change, Methods of Geographic Inquiry

Overall Expectations

GCV.03 - analyse the economic and geopolitical implications of trading blocs and agreements such as the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and Mercosur (Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, and Chile), multilateral organizations such as the Organization of American States (OAS), and selected bilateral agreements and alliances;

GCV.04 - assess the roles of current and emerging major powers in the Americas;

UCV.0 - demonstrate an understanding of how change (e.g., political, economic, social and technological) affects physical and human environments in the Americas;

GIV.02 - select and use geographic skills, methods, and technologies to gather, interpret, analyse.

Specific Expectations

GC1.02 - identify factors that lead to the grouping of nations for military and economic purposes;

GC1.06 - identify criteria that can be used to characterize emerging powers (e.g., literacy rates, gross national product (GNP), and other social and economic indicators, military strength, population);

UC1.05 - identify national and international obstacles that make it difficult for various countries to fulfil their economic, social, and cultural aspirations;

GI2.03 - use geographic technologies and resources effectively (e.g., remote sensing data, geographic information systems, Internet resources) to gather, process, and synthesize information related to geographic issues.

Prior Knowledge & Skills

·         an understanding of reasons for military alliances; in particular, NATO and NORAD from the
Grade 10 Canadian History course

·         an understanding of emerging powers and the human development index from Unit 3

Planning Notes

·         Reserve the Library/Resource Centre or computer lab.

·         Prepare brief reading on each of the major organizations of the Americas.

Teaching/Learning Strategies

1.   The teacher leads the class in a brief brainstorming exercise answering the following question: “Why do countries form organizations, alliances, or group together?” A brainstorming web should be used to record student responses. Some of the reasons that countries form alliances could be: foreign aid, increase in trade, military security, cultural ties, political ideology, historical considerations, geographic settings, environmental beliefs, economic and social status, etc.

2.   Using the web, the class identifies groups/organizations/alliances that match each of their reasons (e.g., trade–Mercosur, military security–NORAD, cultural and trade–Caribbean Common Market (Caricom)).

3.   The teacher reviews the concept of emerging powers and HDI from Unit 3.

4.   In small groups of three or four, students answer the following questions:

·         What characteristics determine whether a country can be considered an emerging power?

·         Looking at percentage change (B-A/A ´ 100) over time, will an increase or decrease indicate a country is emerging?

A student in each group is given the responsibility to record, on the chalk board/chart paper, the different characteristics identified by each group. A teacher-directed class discussion could then be used to generate a list of most significant characteristics (e.g., infant mortality, GNP, GNP per capita, HDI (life expectancy, educational attainment, real GNP per capita)).

5.   Using student-gathered data that reflects the characteristics discussed in Strategy 4, groups of three or four complete the chart, Statistics for Selected Countries of the Americas. Two copies of the chart may be needed depending on the number of characteristics agreed on by the class. It should be noted that to complete the chart, groups must:

·         calculate percentage change from year to year for each of the characteristics;

·         rank all countries within each of the characteristics;

·         add a country’s ranking in each characteristic to determine an overall ranking.

Ask the class to explain any patterns or anomalies they notice (e.g., Canada, the United States, and Brazil). Which country or countries should Canada continue to or initiate trade with? Why?

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Achievement

·         Formative assessment of group dynamics

·         Formative teacher assessment for completion and accuracy of the chart

Accommodations

·         Review student’s IEP and determine if particular accommodations are required.

·         Organize groups so that students with strong skills can complement other students.

Resources

Economic data – http://sima-ext.worldbank.org

Human Development Index – http://www.undp.org/hdro

Morici, P. “An architecture for free trade in the Americas,” Current History. February 1996, pp. 59-64

Socio-economic data – http://www.lanic.utexas.edu/project/aid/aid96

Swanson, L.D. “Making regional marketplaces international,” Montana Business Quarterly. V. 32, June 22, 1994, pp. 8, 10

Appendices

Appendix 4.5.1 – Statistics for Selected Countries of the Americas

 


Appendix 4.5.1

Statistics for Selected Countries of the Americas

Country

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Final Rank

 

Year

Year

%

Rank

Year

Year

%

Rank

Year

Year

%

Rank

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Argentina

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Barbados

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bolivia

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Brazil

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Canada

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chile

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Colombia

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Costa Rica

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cuba

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ecuador

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

El Salvador

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Guatemala

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Haiti

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Honduras

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jamaica

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mexico

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Nicaragua

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Paraguay

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Peru

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Trinidad and Tobago

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

USA

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Uruguay

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Venezuela

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

% – represents percentage change from one year to the next

Rank – represents the rank for that particular characteristic


Activity 4.6:  Trade Alliances: Their Implication and Future

Time:  300 minutes

Description

Students are given an opportunity to examine the implications and the future of selected trade alliances (e.g., NAFTA, Mercosur). The extension activity allows students to write a proposal that would establish a new trade alliance focusing on Chile.

Strand(s) & Learning Expectations

Ontario Catholic School Graduate Expectations

CGE 3c - thinks reflectively and creativity to evaluate situations and solve problems;

CGE 3f - examines, evaluates, and applies knowledge of interdependent systems (physical, political, ethical, socio-economic, and ecological) for the development of a just and compassionate society;

CGE 7f - respects and affirms the diversity and interdependence of the world’s peoples and cultures.

Strand(s):  Geographic Foundations: Space and Systems, Global Connections, Understanding and Managing Change, Methods of Geographic Inquiry

Overall Expectations

GCV.03 - analyse the economic and geopolitical implications of trading blocs and agreements such as the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and Mercosur (Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, and Chile), multilateral organizations such as the Organization of American States (OAS), and selected bilateral agreements and alliances;

GCV.04 - assess the roles of current and emerging major powers in the Americas;

UCV.01 - demonstrate an understanding of how change (e.g., political, economic, social and technological) affects physical and human environments in the Americas.

Specific Expectations

SS1.04 - describe trade patterns within and between selected economic regions of the Americas and explain the factors that have influenced them;

GC3.02 - evaluate the feasibility of expanding existing trade alliances (e.g., Mercosur) in the Americas;

GC3.05 - analyse the evolution and evaluate the current international status of a selected South American emerging power (e.g., Brazil), using data on military strength and social and economic development.

Prior Knowledge & Skills

·         cartographic conventions from the Grade 9 Canadian Geography course

·         how to write a supported opinion paper from the Grade 10 Canadian History course

Planning Notes

·         Obtain reading resources for each of the trading blocs.

·         Obtain and photocopy a map of the Americas.

Teaching/Learning Strategies

1.   Using Mexico, Chile, and Brazil as examples of emerging powers, the teacher can then run a jigsaw activity whereby groups (homogeneous in nature) research only one country and share their findings with classmates (in heterogeneous groups) who have researched the other two countries. The focus of the research is to determine why these countries are considered emerging. With that in mind, the teacher should conduct a class discussion of what material needs to be researched in order to declare a country emerging (e.g., history, economic history, changes in economic systems, economic problems, trade relations, etc.). Once the heterogeneous groups are finished their discussion, they should be asked to answer the following: “Would the criteria discussed today have been useful in determining a definition of emerging countries in Unit 3? If not, what criteria would you now use?”

2.   Students are encouraged to design an organizer that lists several of the major bilateral and multilateral pacts/organizations found in the Americas. The organizer should include the name of the pact/organization, the member states, and why the pact was established. A sample of these pacts/organizations include: NAFTA, Organization of American States (OAS), the Group of Three (G-3), Central American Common Market (CACM), Caribbean Common Market (Caricom), Andean Pact, Southern Cone Common Market (Mercosur).

3.   Using their organizer, students draft a map showing the various pacts/organizations. (Students are encouraged to use cartographic conventions when designing their map.) The teacher should conduct a brief class discussion on the best way to identify countries that are part of more than one pact/organization (e.g., a blend of colour and shading patterns may work best). The teacher may ask students to make general statements about their map noting geographical characteristics of the pacts/organizations, social and economic considerations, and any deviations from their generalization (e.g., Chile is a part of NAFTA and Cuba is not a part of OAS).

4.   Trade alliances in the Americas are always being re-evaluated (e.g., NAFTA has added a new member since its inception and the Mercosur is experiencing grave problems). Students are invited to select one of the trade alliances discussed and write a one-page supported opinion paper that answers the following questions:

·         What are the problems facing the trading bloc?

·         Can these problems be solved? If they can, how could it be done?

·         What are the future plans for the trade alliance? (Are the member states planning to abandon the alliance or are they planning to increase the number of member states?)

5.   As an extension exercise, the teacher divides the class into small groups. Students, in the groups, act as highly respected international trade consultants and address the following scenario: “Your consulting firm has been asked by the president of Chile to write a report on the feasibility of establishing a new trading bloc within the Americas. Your study must have at least four member countries beside Chile. Keep in mind that Chile has a strong, growing economy and as such has no wish to undermine its growth potential. The proposal must include: a name for the new trading bloc, the names of the member states, reasons for the selection of these states, any foreseeable problems to its creation, and the future prospects of the new trading bloc. The study should be short and concise. The group makes a three- or four-minute presentation to the class on key aspects of the feasibility study.

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Achievement

·         Formative teacher assessment of group work

·         Formative teacher assessment of map using map scoring rubric (Appendix 4.3.2)

·         Formative teacher assessment of supported opinion paper (Appendix 4.1.1)

·         Formative teacher assessment of the presentation (Appendix 4.2.1)

Accommodations

·         The teacher should review individual IEP and match the reading level of student in to the difficulty of the reading to be assigned to them.

·         If a student’s writing skills are weak, they may orally communicate the research information to their heterogeneous group once the teacher has reviewed the information.

·         If students are gifted or academically talented, they could be directed to use the Heritage Foundation Internet site and the Ecologist magazine as sources to complete Strategy 4.

Resources

Foreign Trade Information System, Organization of American States – http://www.sice.oas.org/

Government of Canada, NAFTA, and Chile
http://www.parl.gc.ca/english/senate/com-e/fore-e/31ev-e.htm

Heritage Foundation – http://www.heritage.org/library/keyissues/latinamerica/

Inter-American Development Bank – http://www.iadb.org/exr/speeches/s30999e.htm

Latin American Economic System – http://lanic.utexas.edu/project/sela/english.htm

Mercosur Economic Research Network – http://www.redmercosur.org.uy/english/project/project2.html

NAFTA Secretariat – http://www.nafta-sec-alena.org/english/index.htm

NAFTA and Chile – http://www.msu.edu/~bilesjam/cge.htm

 

Activity 4.7:  Culminating Activity-Symposium on the Americas

Time:  200 minutes

Description

The culminating activity of this unit has students developing a rationale for a Social Justice and Development symposium, which may include various governmental, non-governmental, and transnational organizations in order to give a balanced perspective on the issues of social justice and development in the Americas. Students orally present various perspectives on social justice issues and then a report that discusses a rationale for creating a theoretical symposium.

Strand(s) & Learning Expectations

Ontario Catholic School Graduate Expectations

CGE1g - understands that one’s purpose or call in life comes from God and strives to discern and live out this call throughout life’s journey;

CGE1h - respects the faith traditions, world religions, and the life-journeys of all people of good will;

CGE1i - integrates faith with life;

CGE4c - takes initiative and demonstrates Christian leadership;

CGE5a - works effectively as an interdependent team member;

CGE5c - develops one’s God-given potential and makes a meaningful contribution to society;

CGE5d - finds meaning, dignity, fulfillment, and vocation in work that contributes to the common good;

CGE5f - exercises Christian leadership in the achievement of individual and group goals.

Strand(s):  Global Connections, Understanding and Managing Change, Methods of Geographic Inquiry

Overall Expectations

UCV.03 - describe and evaluate aid programs and their impacts;

GIV.03 - plan and produce an independent study that applies appropriate knowledge, skills, and methods to a selected geographic issue dealing with the Americas.

Specific Expectations

GI2.01 - use decision-making and problem-solving techniques effectively to interpret and analyse geographic issues;

GI2.05 - evaluate the accuracy and reliability of information obtained from various sources;

GI3.03 - demonstrate an understanding of different points of view on an issue;

GC3.05 - analyse the evolution and evaluate the current international status of a selected South American emerging power, using data on military strength and social and economic development;

UC1.05 - identify national and international obstacles that make it difficult for various countries to fulfill their economic, social, and cultural aspirations.

Prior Knowledge & Skills

·         development of supportive opinion paper, thesis writing, supporting paragraphs, and oral presentations from the Grade 9 Geography course and Grade 10 History course

·         steps in organizing data and developing a decision-making matrix from the Grade 9 and 10 courses

·         Internet and Library/Resource Centre research skills

·         knowledge and understanding of social justice concepts from the Grade 10 Religion course

Planning Notes

·         Introduce this activity at the beginning of the unit to allow development of symposium rationale.

·         Book computer lab and Library/Resource Centre.

·         Review components of a supportive opinion paper and oral presentation.

Teaching/Learning Strategies

1.   The teacher outlines the process for development of the symposium, including dates for formative assessment (working bibliography, thesis, and outline) and conferencing.

2.   The class will brainstorm a list of groups/organizations/countries under the following categories, transnational corporations, governments and other groups involved in the Americas.

3.   Each pair of students researches the chosen item. They develop a one-page synopsis and present their findings to the class in a 5-minute oral presentation that may include posters/charts/data sheets. The synopsis should include why the group is involved in the Americas, the group’s perspective on the Americas, their accomplishments, and role in the Americas.

4.   Students complete a data organizer, based on the criteria in Strategy 3, on all groups presented.

5.   Once students have accumulated all necessary data, they develop a decision-making matrix to aid in the choosing of speakers. They then develop a rationale of who would be the ideal speakers at a social justice symposium on the Americas. In their decisions, they incorporate the following: Who is going to participate? Why have you chosen this group? What is their perspective on the development of the Americas? Detail specific examples of achievements, production levels, or development role in the Americas.

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Achievement

·         Formative assessment of group dynamics

·         Formative teacher assessment for completion and accuracy of the working bibliography, thesis and outline of oral presentations

·         Summative assessment of oral presentation (Appendix 4.2.1)

·         Summative assessment of the symposium rationale using supportive opinion paper rubric
(Appendix 4.1.1)

Accommodations

·         Review student’s IEP and determine if particular accommodations are required.

·         Organize groups so that students with strong skills can complement other students.

·         Provide non-threatening environments for presentations or provide electronic medium for presentations.

Appendices

Appendix 4.1.1 – Supportive Opinion Paper Rubric

Appendix 4.2.1 – Oral Presentation Rubric

 

 

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