Country Online App

Here is a really easy to use online application called Visited Countries. This was created just for fun, by Douwe Osinga who works for Google.

I see a few applications for his Visited Countries:
Countries in conflict;
Countries where specific languages are spoken;
Countries you have visited;
Countries where the Olympics have been held.

I've created a map of where our students come from, based on the Peace messages conveyed at our Rememberance Day Ceremony.



If I have missed anyone, please let me know... happy to add, the more the merrier!

If you come up with another curricular idea to use the application, please comment and share.

National Symbols and Statues... et al

Ok, my very last post about Ottawa, I promise. Those of you who know me well, know that red and white run through my veins. I am very patriotic and I celebrate all things Canadian (and Australian, for my other passport;). To this point, I had seen more of Canberra than Ottawa. I'm happy to say this has been corrected. Everywhere you turn in Ottawa, you are reminded of being Canadian. Aside from it being our nation's capital and the home of Parliament, you are surrounded by our national symbols. I took numerous pictures of our provincial coat of arms which, along with all our province and territory coats of arms, flowers, and flags can be found either laid in wood, stone, doors, walls, ceilings, fountains, stain glass, carpet, or flying in stands.

Throughout the halls of Parliament are paintings of our Prime Ministers and Monarchy. On the grounds of Parliament are many statues, including some of our Prime Ministers and the Famous Five. This is a picture of me having tea with Emily Murphy, Nellie McClung, Henrietta Muir Edwards, Irene Parlby, and Louise McKinney.

Across the street from Parliament is a statue of our Canadian hero, Terry Fox. Just down the block from Parliament is the National War Memorial.

Our country's flag flies everywhere... inside buildings, in front of buildings, on top of buildings. It was National Flag of Canada Day my last day in Ottawa - that is when the picture of Parliament Hill on the last post was taken.

I visited the Canadian War Museum, the National Gallery of Art and the Museum of Civilization - each absolutely amazing! I also walked on the Rideau Canal and eat a Beaver Tail.

My visit to Ottawa was unique because of the Teacher's Institute; however, I encourage everyone to visit our capital and the opportunity to reflect on all things Canadian whenever the chance arises.