Civic Participation
This strand explores how the Eastern Caribbean connects to and participates in international organizations. Students develop understanding of national identity, global cooperation, social issues, democratic processes, and media literacy while appreciating that complex global problems require international cooperation.
Grade Six Expectations for Civic Participation
Essential Learning Outcome: National Identity and International Cooperation
To appreciate that complex global problems require international cooperation to make choices for the future.
- Demonstrate understanding of factors which influence national identity
- Research aspects of national identity and their influences
- Recognize that countries belong to different international organizations
- Examine international organizations and their roles
- Identify major social issues in the Eastern Caribbean and nearby world
- Appreciate that cooperation is necessary for country development
Focus Questions:
What is national identity and what key elements contribute to it?
What is an international organization and how do countries connect to them?
What are the major social issues affecting the Eastern Caribbean?
Specific Curriculum Outcomes
By the end of Grade Six, the learner will be expected to:
Inclusive Assessment Strategies
Assessment strategies that provide information about learning:
- Observations: Monitor participation in mock elections, debates, and media analysis activities
- Conversations: Democratic discussions, media literacy dialogues, international cooperation debates
- Products: National identity projects, organization research, media analysis reports, civic action plans
Sample Assessment Tools:
- Civic knowledge assessment rubrics
- Media analysis evaluation criteria
- Democratic participation checklists
- Research project assessment guides
- Collaborative activity peer assessments
Inclusive Learning Strategies
Additional Resources and Materials
Digital Resources
- National government websites and virtual tours
- International organization educational materials
- Media literacy training platforms
- Democratic simulation software
- Global news sources and fact-checking sites
- Civic education videos and documentaries
- Social issues databases and case studies
- International cooperation project showcases
Physical Materials
- National symbols and flags
- Mock election materials (ballots, boxes)
- International organization publications
- Media analysis worksheets and guides
- Democratic process charts and diagrams
- Global maps and atlases
- Civic education books and pamphlets
- Presentation materials for student projects
Teacher Content Knowledge
National identity is shaped by cultural heritage, geography, political systems, historical context, and globalization. In the Caribbean, national identity includes shared experiences of colonization, independence movements, cultural diversity, and regional cooperation. Understanding these factors helps students appreciate their place in both national and global contexts.
Democratic participation involves understanding electoral processes, citizen rights and responsibilities, and the importance of informed voting. In Caribbean democracies, citizens participate through voting, civic engagement, community involvement, and holding governments accountable. Youth participation is crucial for democratic sustainability and can include student councils, youth parliaments, and community service.
Media literacy is essential in today's digital age, where information comes from multiple sources with varying perspectives and accuracy. Students must learn to identify reliable sources, recognize bias, fact-check information, and understand how media shapes public opinion. International organizations like WHO, FAO, IOM, and UNICEF work together to address global challenges, demonstrating the importance of cooperation in solving complex problems that affect all nations.