1. Demonstrate an understanding of the fundamental principles of democracy by exploring and reflecting upon the following questions and issues:
(a) What is democracy?
- A type of government where power is held by all the people and citizens are meant to participate equally in making decisions
- 4 Pillars of Democracy - principles of justice, equity, freedoms and representation
(b) What are the similarities and differences between direct and representative democracy?
- Representative democracy — Representatives are selected by the people through elections to make decisions on their behalf
- Direct democracy — a form of government in which all laws and decisions are made by everyone in a society having the chance to use their voice and have an individual vote
2. Recognize how individuals and governments interact and bring about change within their communities:
(a) value citizens’ participation in a democratic society
Steps in an election:
- must be a Canadian citizen and reside in the area they are running in
- be nominated by the minimum number of voters in their district
** a candidate is still eligible to vote in the election
telephone calls
talking to candidates who knock on their door
- An election is called
- Candidates ensure they meet the required criteria
- must be a Canadian citizen and reside in the area they are running in
- be nominated by the minimum number of voters in their district
** a candidate is still eligible to vote in the election
- A candidate's name is placed on the official ballot
- Candidates organize a campaign committee
telephone calls
- Citizens share ideas and opinions
talking to candidates who knock on their door
- Candidates make speeches, participate in debates
- Voting Day!
- All voters must bring their IDs to the polling station
- An election official checks all IDs to ensure individuals are registered/eligible to vote
- Each voter is given a ballot with all of the candidates names (listed alphabetically)
- Voters go into a voting booth and individually mark their choice with an "X"
- Once finished, voters place their ballot into a ballot box
- Results are counted and the winner is announced