What About Shady Acres?

Elementary, Middle, Secondary

Description

Students begin to think critically about controversial issues and examine their own values as they “take a stand” on a difficult issue. This simulation activity is modeled after a controversial land development process that actually took place in the Town of Canmore in 1996 but is also reminiscent of land development and land use issues that occur throughout Alberta. In this activity, students work through the process of a municipal government to decide on the future of Shady Acres: they decide whether to preserve the Shady Acres natural area, an untouched forest that provides shade, peace, and homes for animals, or to create the Shady Acres subdivision, providing much-needed economic development and affordable housing for humans.

General Assessment

Themes Addressed

Relevant Curriculum Units