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Our Constitution - The Law of the Land

1990 28 min
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Most Canadians have heard a lot about the Constitution, but don't understand what it is or how it works. Using clear language, this film explains that the Constitution is made up of laws, court decisions and conventions. Together, they guide our legislatures and Parliament, delineating federal and provincial jurisdictions, and protecting citizens from abusive legislation. Our Constitution - The Law of the Land touches on key moments in the Constitution's history, from the 1867 British North America Act (Constitution Act), to the 1982 repatriation of the Constitution and the Charter of Rights, to continued efforts at constitutional change. (Grades 6-12 …

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Our Constitution - The Law of the Land

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Most Canadians have heard a lot about the Constitution, but don't understand what it is or how it works. Using clear language, this film explains that the Constitution is made up of laws, court decisions and conventions. Together, they guide our legislatures and Parliament, delineating federal and provincial jurisdictions, and protecting citizens from abusive legislation.

Our Constitution - The Law of the Land touches on key moments in the Constitution's history, from the 1867 British North America Act (Constitution Act), to the 1982 repatriation of the Constitution and the Charter of Rights, to continued efforts at constitutional change. (Grades 6-12 civics and social studies.)
  • director
    Jane Churchill
  • producer
    Tamara Lynch
  • executive producer
    Floyd Elliott

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Education

Ages 11 to 17
School subjects
Pre-teach the following concepts: patriation, referendum. Assign the following topics for small-group research and presentation: British North America Act (1867); Fathers of Confederation; Statute of Westminster (1931); Charter of Rights and Freedoms (1960); Constitution Act (1982); Meech Lake Accord (1987). As a class discussion, suggest reasons why amendments to Canada’s constitution are an ongoing process that may never be finished. Debate topic: Should the queen remain as Canada’s head of state?
Our Constitution - The Law of the Land
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