We’re about to start our next unit and I’d like you to choose the direction we take. We have three Unit Themes to choose from: you need to discuss them as a group and decide which we’ll take on next and when you’ve decided we’re going to tackle it through an Inquiry Based Project. You’re each going to pick your own topic within that theme, research and develop an understanding of your topic, create a product of some type and then present it to the group. But we’ll get to that part later.

Your Units Left to Choose From:  Read through the description and the Big Questions for each and mull it over individually and with your classmates to narrow down which Unit we’ll move forward with.

1. Indigenous and Norse Narratives: All cultures have their stories. These stories contain those beliefs and values that are considered important by each culture. They reflect a people’s worldview and allow us to gain insight into their cultural knowledge and heritage. Because Indigenous stories and traditions are an integral part of Canadian society, they provide important opportunities for us to deepen out understanding of who we are and to understand our linguistic and cultural roots.
   Big Questions:
   1. Why do people tell stories and tales?
   2. How do these stories help people understand their world?
   3. What lessons do we learn about people through these tales?
   4. How are these stories and tales alike and different?
   5. Why is it important for each generation to hear and to retell these tales?
2. Surviving and Conquering: Survivors never give up, no matter what difficulties they find themselves facing. The word “survival” literally means “to live” but also implies the triumph of the spirit and the body over formidable obstacles. As individuals, and as groups, people face physical, emotional, and social difficulties that force them to survive and, indeed, conquer. They must draw on their inner resources and overcome the obstacles. In their attempt to survive, they often learn a great deal about themselves and others.
   Big Questions:
   1. What does it take to survive on planet Earth and in our society?
   2. What kinds of survival challenges have others faced?
   3. What decisions do people have to make to survive?
   4. How can we help one another survive?
   5. Why is important to do more than just survive?
3. Our Shared Linguistic and Cultural Roots: Each language has its unique beauty, power, and history. English is no exception. It is one of the dominant languages in the world and a chief means of communication among people and nations. Understanding and being understood in English at home, in school, and in the work place are important for success. By studying how English works, its history, and its impact on others, we can better understand our linguistic identity and our heritage.
   Big Questions:
   1. When, where and how was English first used and by whom?
   2. How does a linguist analyze and explain the English language?
   3. How do we learn a language such as English?
   4. How is English used by different people in different roles and occupations?
   5. How is languages affected by gender, age, ethnic heritage group, and educational background?

After reviewing each, decide which would be your personal preference and reasoning for that choice. Share that decision with a friend and have them share their choice. Then share preferences with the larger group to hash out your final choice.

Good luck!