Common Threads VI – The Sustainable Society

In 2016, The Sustainable Society explored three themes of “sustainability” mentioned by journalists, politicians, business leaders, and advocacy groups. Often not discussed is the topic of a “sustainable society”. The Project explores the approaches taken to achieve/maintain social justice, equity, fairness, and democracy by contrasting and comparing two countries, Norway and Venezuela. The Project how each uses it petroleum resource to promote a Sustainable Society examines those approaches in comparison and contrast to Canada.

Common Threads V – Full Circle: First Nations, Métis and Inuit Ways of Knowing

In 2012, Full Circle: First Nation, Métis and Inuit Ways of Knowing was written by members who self-identify as First Nation or Métis, or have extensive experience working with Aboriginal students. In 2021 a new Métis Resource, a companion to the Common Threads V—Full Circle: First Nations, Métis and Inuit Ways of Knowing resource, was added to provide a was published in 2021. This new companion resource was developed by a team of Ontario Secondary School Teachers’ Federation (OSSTF/FEESO) members along with staff from the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO). This resource is meant to enhance the original Full Circle package.

These lessons are authentic in their approach to sensitive, value-laden topics, and honour traditional “Ways of Knowing” by taking a holistic approach to the broad themes of Land, Identity, Health, and Residential Schools. Please note that textbook pages from Aboriginal Peoples In Canada and Aboriginal Beliefs, Values and Aspirations have not been reproduced in the on-line version. 

Common Threads IV – Hungry for Change

In 2009, Hungry For Change, had members travel to Brazil where they explored progressive approaches to agriculture and food distribution. On return to Canada, the team created a series of lesson plans on a variety of related topics such as the commodification of food, the production of bio-fuels and food distribution.

Common Threads III – Tapped Out: The World Water Crisis

In 2006, OSSTF/FEESO sent a team to Bolivia where they helped conduct research on the topic of water and privatization. Tapped Out: The World Water Crisis contains curriculum which addresses issues such as equal access to clean water and sanitation, pollution and climate change and Canada’s role in protecting this critical resource.

Common Threads II – From Canada to South Africa: Combatting HIV/AIDS Together

In 2004, a delegation travelled to South Africa and produced From Canada to South Africa: Combatting HIV/AIDS Together – materials to help develop awareness in Ontario’s high school students of the global impact of their choices and actions, and help them make responsible choices for the sake of our collective future.

Common Threads I – Globalization, Sweatshops and the Clothes We Wear

The first Common Threads project saw a group of educators from OSSTF/FEESO travel to Guatemala in 2002 to research the international garment industry. The result was Globalization, Sweatshops, and the Clothes We Wear – a study tool for students interested in the relationship between major clothing brands and the people and places where they are made.