21 languages available
Alone in Canada is a 65-page book designed to address mental health needs of newcomers who are alone in Canada and may be struggling with settlement. There are 21 chapters written at an intermediate level; the content is accessible and a comfortable length for the low-intermediate learner. The topics cover a variety of issues, including thinking about the past, present and future, coping with stress, learning the unwritten rules of Canadian manners, developing a routine and celebrating achievements. The chapters contain quotes from newcomers, tips and short exercises to help the reader individualize and apply the content.
Although intended for individuals who are on their own, the content may be helpful to all newcomers who are facing challenges adjusting to life in Canada. In addition, instructors and administrators may find it a useful resource for professional development. The chapters can easily be used or adapted for classroom use.
By Drew Smith (hard copy and Kindle e-book)
This study guide is based on the Canadian citizenship study guide and has been adapted for CLB 4–5 learners. The contents align with the official study guide and provide multiple-choice comprehension questions followed by review exercises. Presented in a format that is easily accessible for language learners who are preparing for their citizenship test. The text can be used in a classroom setting or for self-study. Worksheets and an answer key are included. The book also provides a link to additional video quizzes for the citizenship test.
ISBN-10: 1519121296
ISBN-13: 978-1519121295
Available for purchase through Amazon:
https://www.amazon.ca/Canadian-Citizenship-Made-Easy-English/dp/1519121296
Lessons may be adaptable for literacy classrooms, this resource was developed by the Toronto Catholic District School Board and Citizenship and Immigration Canada (now IRCC) as a companion to Discover Canada, the federal government’s citizenship test study guide. It is intended for program planning and instructional use. The chapters are theme-based with a planning framework for CLB 1–8. It provides reproducible activities, recommended resources and teaching strategies. There are seven chapters covering:
- Rights and Responsibilities of Citizens
- Who We Are
- Canada’s History
- Canada’s Government
- Elections
- Canadian Symbols
- Canada’s Regions and Economy
There is an informative list of suggested resources including books and online materials, including a virtual Charter of Rights and Freedoms, with translations in 23 languages:
http://www.charterofrights.ca/en/27_08_01
Free access:
http://atwork.settlement.org/downloads/atwork/Citizenship%20Resource/Citizenship%20Resource.pdf
A 136-page study guide (non-CLB) based on the 2011 federal government Discover Canada study guide. Contains readings with comprehension questions that are written for intermediate students.
Free access:
http://citizenshipcounts.ca/content/pdf/citizenship-guide-newcomers-manitoba-self-study.pdf
A colourful, interactive website that helps participants prepare for the Canadian citizenship test. Participants are invited to earn badges as they complete each section on the benefits of citizenship. The site is linked to the online Discover Canada study guide. Participants also have the option of listening to the study guide on Sound Cloud.
Free access to the study guide:
https://soundcloud.com/citizenshipcounts/sets/discover-canada-study-guide
The test preparation section contains flash cards for practice, in addition to online quizzes. There are two options for the quizzes: a 30-minute timed quiz with 20 questions, simulating the real citizenship test, plus a random quiz with no time limit.
Free access:
http://citizenshipcounts.ca/
This is the 68-page official government document to prepare applicants for the Canadian citizenship test. The topics include applying for citizenship, rights and responsibilities, government, federal elections and the justice system.
It should be noted that the guide is written at an intermediate level, which may be challenging for newcomers with lower reading proficiency. It is not a textbook; there are no learning activities other than the sample study questions at the end of the guide.
Free access:
www.cic.gc.ca/english/pdf/pub/discover.pdf
Free online practice tests for independent study or classroom use.
Richmond Public Library: https://www.yourlibrary.ca/citizenship/
Citizenshipcounts.ca: http://citizenshipcounts.ca
Government of Canada Discover Canada study questions: http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/resources/publications/discover/questions.asp
This 146-page guide provides detailed information for refugees and immigrants. It may be valuable as an instructor resource or as a class reference – text is written at a high level, which may be challenging for Stage 1 learners. Although it is not the official citizenship preparation guide, the document refers readers to the Discover Canada document. It contains attractive photos, charts and sidebar stories of newcomers’ achievements in Canada.
The 15 chapters include:
- A brief overview (Canadian history and geography)
- Rights and freedoms
- Canadian law and justice
- Employment and income
- Education
- Housing
- Healthcare in Canada
- Money and finances
- Transportation
- Communications and media
- Community connections
Also provides some practical information on such things as etiquette on public transportation, bundling of Internet services and protecting personal identification.
Free access:
http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/pdf/pub/welcome.pdf
