Canada is one of the most encountered countries in America.  Canada is a common topic of conversation whether fishing, traveling, or education.  Even though Canada may seem to be similar to the United States, there are many differences.  Over a 2 ½ week span 5^th graders will make comparisons and contrasts between Canada and the United States while studying Canada.  This unit, based in the social studies, will be integrated into math, language arts, science, Bible, and other extracurricular subjects.  Math will focus on learning the metric system, interpreting graphs, and comparing data.  Language arts will correlate by studying letter formatting and writing to Canadian pen-pals.  Science will tie in weather, climate, and topography.  At the center of all these topics will be learning to have a greater respect and appreciation for each culture as God developed them.  

Culture is one of the most unique things God has created. He enables us to discover language, lifestyles, landforms, and other aspects of creation. Through discovering and learning we are able to gain an appreciation for the cultures God has made. Christians need to find common ground among cultures in order to promote unity throughout God's world. Galatians 5:14 commands us to "love our neighbors as ourselves." This means seeking unity and identity among on another. When we know the people around us, we are able to reach out to them in ways we could not before. God calls His people to a life of service and by serving one another, we are serving God.

The main goal of this unit is to inform students about Canada and Canadian culture. Students will learn about Canadian culture while deepening appreciation for their own culture. Students will be encouraged to accept Canadian culture as they want to be accepted. By studying provinces and territories, students will discover diversity throughout North America. The unit will support students to study places outside of the United States and encourage them as they discover a new passion for learning.