Instructions
This worksheet explores various aspects of Canadian culture, from everyday slang to significant historical facts. Read each section carefully and answer the questions to the best of your ability. Good luck!
Section 1: Canadian Vernacular
Match the Canadian slang term on the left with its correct definition on the right. Write the corresponding letter in the blank space provided.
- ___ Toque
- ___ Double-double
- ___ Loonie
- ___ Eh?
- ___ Poutine
- ___ Kerfuffle
- ___ Keener
- ___ Pop
A. A one-dollar coin.
B. A quintessential Canadian dish of fries, cheese curds, and gravy.
C. A common term for a carbonated soft drink.
D. A knitted winter hat, often with a pompom.
E. A term used at the end of a sentence to confirm something or seek agreement, similar to "right?"
F. A coffee order: two creams and two sugars.
G. An overly enthusiastic or eager person; a suck-up.
H. A minor commotion or fuss.
Section 2: Who Am I?
Read the descriptions below and identify the iconic Canadian being described. Choose from the names in the box.
- I am a celebrated author known for dystopian novels like "The Handmaid's Tale." Who am I?
_________________________ - Known as "The Great One," I am a legendary hockey player who holds numerous NHL records. Who am I?
_________________________ - I was an astronaut who gained worldwide fame for covering David Bowie's "Space Oddity" while commanding the International Space Station. Who am I?
_________________________ - Despite losing a leg to cancer, I attempted the "Marathon of Hope," a cross-Canada run to raise money for cancer research, becoming a national hero. Who am I?
_________________________ - I am a Grammy-winning musician and rapper from Toronto, often called "The 6 God." Who am I?
_________________________
Section 3: Cultural Knowledge
Circle the correct answer for each multiple-choice question.
- Canada officially became a country through Confederation in what year?
- A) 1776
- B) 1867
- C) 1945
- D) 1982
- What are Canada's two official national sports?
- A) Hockey and Baseball
- B) Curling and Football
- C) Lacrosse and Hockey
- D) Soccer and Lacrosse
- The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) are colloquially known by what nickname?
- A) The Redcoats
- B) The Mounties
- C) The Canucks
- D) The Rangers
- Which of the following is a Canadian territory, not a province?
- A) Saskatchewan
- B) Nova Scotia
- C) Manitoba
- D) Nunavut
Section 4: Critical Thinking
Answer the following question in a few complete sentences. Your response should be thoughtful and well-reasoned.
The Canadian Multiculturalism Act was passed in 1988, formalizing the government's policy of multiculturalism. In your own words, what is the core principle of this policy, and how does it manifest in contemporary Canadian society? Provide one specific example to support your point.
Answer Key
Section 1: Canadian Vernacular
- D - Toque
- F - Double-double
- A - Loonie
- E - Eh?
- B - Poutine
- H - Kerfuffle
- G - Keener
- C - Pop
Section 2: Who Am I?
- Margaret Atwood
- Wayne Gretzky
- Chris Hadfield
- Terry Fox
- Drake
Section 3: Cultural Knowledge
- B - 1867
- C - Lacrosse and Hockey
- B - The Mounties
- D - Nunavut
Section 4: Critical Thinking
(Answers will vary but should demonstrate an understanding of the core concepts. A strong answer would include points similar to the following.)
Example Answer: The core principle of Canada's multiculturalism policy is that all citizens are equal and have the freedom to preserve, enhance, and share their cultural heritage. It promotes the idea that diversity strengthens the nation, rather than requiring assimilation into one dominant culture. This manifests in contemporary society through the celebration of various cultural festivals, such as Diwali, Chinese New Year, or Caribbean carnivals in major cities. For example, the "Taste of the Danforth" festival in Toronto celebrates Greek food and culture, drawing hundreds of thousands of people of all backgrounds, which shows multiculturalism in action by sharing and celebrating a specific heritage with the broader community.