Minds On

Canadian symbols

Let’s explore what it means to be Canadian! Access the following video “Canadians” to join Bebe, Mo and Gavin as they learn about Canada.

The video highlights many Canadian symbols. There are other symbols that represent Canada.

Let’s brainstorm different Canadian symbols that are not represented on Canadian money. Record or draw possible Canadian symbols you would like to see on Canadian money. You may use the following fillable and printable document Canadian Symbols Organizer or you can complete this activity in your notebook. You can complete this activity independently or work with a partner.

As you complete this activity, think about the following questions:

  • Who is not being represented on Canadian money?
  • Who would you like to have represented?

Complete the Canadian Symbols Organizer in your notebook or using the following fillable and printable document.

Canadian Symbols Organizer

Press the Activity button to access the Canadian Symbols Organizer.

Activity (Open PDF in a new tab)

In this learning activity, we are going to learn about different Canadian symbols and identify the value of Canadian money.

Acknowledgements(Opens in a new window)

Action

Canadian money

Using your own ideas, create or describe a Canadian coin or bill with a significant Canadian symbol. You can create your coin or bill using the following fillable and printable document Canadian Money Template. You can also complete this activity in your notebook or using a method of your choice.

Canadian Money Template

Press the Activity button to access the Canadian Money Template.

Activity (Open PDF in a new tab)

Why did you choose this symbol? Be ready to share your ideas with your teacher.

Brainstorm

Explain your choice

Write a letter or prepare a speech to the Bank of Canada asking them to consider your image. In your explanation tell them why you think your image is important to Canada’s identity.

Bills and coins in Canada

The following image displays the bills and coins of Canadian money.

Practice

Let’s practice! What is the value of money for each of the following groups?

Consolidation

How do we use money?

We use money in everyday life. Let’s think about the different ways we use money in everyday life.

Record or draw your ideas in your notebook or another method of your choice.

Student Success

Think-Pair-Share

Total the coin and bill combination in the mystery bag. Here are your clues:

  • one coin has a polar bear
  • two coins have a beaver
  • one coin has a loon
  • four coins have a moose
  • six coins have the Bluenose boat
  • two bills are the smallest denomination
  • one bill is the largest denomination

Estimate the value of the coins and bills that could be in the bag. What is the greatest amount the money could be? What is the least amount the money could be?

Record your ideas in your notebook or another method of your choice.

Note to teachers: See your teacher guide for collaboration tools, ideas and suggestions.

Reflection

How do you feel about what you have learned in this activity?  Which of the next four sentences best matches how you are feeling about your learning? Press the button that is beside this sentence.

I feel...

Now, record your ideas about your feelings using a voice recorder, speech-to-text, or writing tool.

Press ‘Discover More’ to extend your skills.

We are going to play a game. In your group, one person will have the Mystery Money Bag. This person will carefully reach in and see what bills and coins are in the bag. Make sure no one else in the group sees the contents! They will then describe each coin or bill one at a time. They can describe the colour, what is on the face, even size for coins. (For example: “It’s a coin. It is silver and brown in colour. There is a bear on it.” Answer: Toonie.)