What About Shady Acres?
Description
This simulation activity is modelled after a controversial land development process that actually took place in the Town of Canmore in 1996 - but it is reminiscent of land development and land use issues that occur throughout Alberta. In this activity, students work through the process of 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. Or perhaps they’ll find a way to compromise...
Time Required: Approximately four hours for all six parts
Language: English
Teachers Notes
This lesson will extend over several class periods and can be used as a summary or as an
introduction. It is composed of the following sections:
Part 1 (30 minutes): Introduction of Town Council, description of Shady Acres natural area and proposed development; first reading of new land use bylaw; scheduling of Public Hearing
Part 2 (30 minutes) : Discussion: pros and cons of nature and development
Part 3 (50 minutes): Assigning Roles, preparing lobbying and presentation strategies
Part 4 (60 minutes): Public Hearing: presentations in favour of and in opposition to the proposed bylaw
Part 5: (30 minutes or more): Decision by Council: Second and Third Reading of the Bylaw
Part 6 (30 minutes): After the decision - group discussion
Other Tools
- Make overheads of all graphics contained in this activity - photocopies, as detailed in part II - a hammer or wooden mallet to use as the Mayor’s gavel - sign to sling around your neck that says ‘Mayor’ on one side and ‘Planner’ on the other
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Source:Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society - Sourthern Alberta Chapter
Resource Type:Lesson Plan
Subject(s):Geography, Social Studies, Environmental Studies,
Topic:Governance, Natural Resources, Taking Action,
Level:Primary / ElementaryIntermediate / MiddleSecondary
Grade:JKK 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12