1. Changes to the Law

2. Factors Driving Changes in Law  Throughout Canadian history, people have fought to change existing laws and bring new laws into effect.  A number of factors can influence change in law, they include: 1. Demographic Changes 2. Technological Changes 3. Changes in Values 4. National Emergencies  Read pages 5-7, and record some examples of how these factors have influenced law.

3. “Big Brother”  Do you know what the term “Big Brother” means?  Although this is the name of a popular “reality” show on TV, the term was originally used in George Orwell’s novel 1984 to describe an all-powerful government that keeps its citizens under control by using extreme forms of surveillance.  THINK/PAIR/SHARE  Why might this term be considered relevant or topical in today’s political climate?  What events could cause government’s to turn into a “Big Brother”?

4. National Security vs. Personal Privacy  Read pages 8-9.  Answer questions 1 – 3, 6 and 7.  Hand in your notes on Factors Driving Changes, and your answers to the above questions.

5. Individuals Impacting Change: “Who owns my life?”  Some individuals are able to cause change to a law, for example: Henry Morgentaler.  While some are unsuccessful, they at least start a debate to gauge social values on a certain topic, for example: Sue Rodriguez  Rodriguez had a terminal illness, and wanted to end her life, but she was too weak, and she wanted help.  Helping someone commit suicide is illegal in Canada, s. 241 of the Criminal Code. Pg. 18  Rodriguez posed the question: “Who’s body is this?”

6. Sue Rodriguez  You are going to write an opinion paragraph on Euthanasia in Canada using the Rodriguez case as your example.  Read the handout on the Rodriguez case, and pages 17-18 from your textbook.  We will also watch a brief video on Euthanasia. While watching make notes on anything you find interesting.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HXcRwILYyXY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HXcRwILYyXY  You need to clearly state your opinion, and use evidence to back up your opinion.  Your paragraph is due on Tuesday, Feb 10 2015