Systems of Government

Analyzing Democracy in Canada

Grade 6 Social Studies

1. The Concept of a System

Before we understand government, we must understand a System. A system is a group of parts working together to make something function. Just like a hockey team needs a goalie, defense, and forwards to work, a society needs a government structure to provide safety and order.

Analogy: The Hockey Team

🥅
Goalie Stops Goals (Defense)
🏒
Captain Leads Strategy
🦓
Referee Enforces Rules

Structure

Government systems provide leadership and laws so society doesn't collapse into chaos.

Democracy

A specific system where the "players" (citizens) have a voice in the game plan.

Student Reflection

3. Interactive: Sort the Responsibilities

Drag each item to the correct level of government!

🪖 Military
🏥 Hospitals
💰 Money
🛣️ Highways
📮 Postal Service
🏫 Schools

Federal

Provincial

4. Government Leaders

Tap a leader, then tap their level to match them up.

The Leaders

👨‍💼

Prime Minister

"I lead the whole country."

👩‍💼

Premier

"I lead the province."

The Levels

PROVINCIAL

Alberta

FEDERAL

Canada
Good Job!

2. The Crown Connection

👑

The Monarch

King Charles III

🇨🇦

Governor General

🏔️

Lieutenant Governor

6. Holding Power Accountable

The Official Opposition's Job:

  • Questioning: They force leaders to explain their choices.
  • Alternatives: They offer different points of view.