Students in this grade 7/8 classroom are highly engaged in their own learning. Through an integrated inquiry-based study that seeks to answer the questions of who has voice, and who is marginalized and why, students discover that they each have a voice that can be used to make a difference. They assume a critical stance as they examine history texts and media resources and interact with primary sources to understand how and why certain elements of society are marginalized. Students develop insight into what they as individuals can do to have a voice and help others make their voices heard. During this study students learn to engage in dialogue about important issues, challenge current thinking, and put their ideas forward with confidence. They apply their new learning to their own lives and to two authentic writing tasks.

An educational session that was originally broadcast over the internet on October 19, 2011. Online videos also available on the Learning Exchange website. Viewer's guide and web link available under Additional Info tag. .