Canada & Its Trading Partners. Shirley Lewis & Susan Leppington. Toronto, ON: SYSDOCS/MOD Publishing (6 Edgar Ave, M4W 2A9), 1999. 64 pp., pbk., $16.95. ISBN 0-9684559-5-6. Subject Headings: Free Trade-activity programs International trade Free Trade-Canada Canada-Commerce Professional. Review by Gail Hamilton *** /4

Presented in workbook format, this title focuses on Canada's trading practices with nations in various parts of the world. The book is divided into two sections, the first of which contains background information, listed by country. Percentages of imports versus exports, types of goods traded, tourism between countries, laws, tariffs and trade agreements and historical facts related to trading are included. There are several reproducible maps, tables, graphs, diagrams and a letter to parents as well as an explanation of the format of the student activities and a table indicating how each of the activities relates to Gardner's Multiple Intelligences. The second part of the book consists of eight activities which can be adapted to suit higher or lower grades. Lesson plans, including the instructional focus, new vocabulary and required materials, provide teachers not only with the activities, but also with ideas for extending their students' knowledge and opportunities for questioning, reflecting, creative thinking and problem-solving. Activities range from research and math to games and art. At the back of the book, there is a brief description of nine additional learning activities, such as having students examine grocery or department store flyers to discuss the possible source of the products shown or having them interview community members who are involved with multicultural organizations. A glossary of trade terms (e.g. Gross National Product, Consumer Price Index, NAFTA) is also provided. The bibliography includes lists of resources - non-fiction books, picture books and fiction (for the literature link) and internet sites - to reinforce and enhance the concepts presented in the unit.

Recommended.

Gail Hamilton is a teacher-librarian at Bird's Hill School in East St. Paul, MB.

To comment on this title or this review, send mail to cm@umanitoba.ca.

Copyright © the Manitoba Library Association. Reproduction for personal use is permitted only if this copyright notice is maintained. Any other reproduction is prohibited without permission.

Published by
The Manitoba Library Association
ISSN 1201-9364

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