Chocolate diplomacy in Rwanda
Through the story of a piece of chocolate, students will:
- learn about the experiences of Canadian Veterans who served in the United Nations mission to Rwanda in 1994;
- explore the complex situation of children recruited and used as soldiers and the impact of war on civilians; and
- reflect on the importance of protecting peace.
Warning
This lesson plan includes details about traumatic events which may upset some students. We recommend you review the text and videos to gauge their use in your classroom. Modify as required. Refer to resources your school, province and territories offer to support difficult discussions.
Choose from the activities below or complete all of them. Lesson plans are best suited for students from ages 12 to 18. Choose and modify lesson components to best fit student needs, curriculum requirements, and available time.
Chocolate bars
This lesson plan explores the story of a difficult encounter diffused with the help of a chocolate bar. You could enhance this activity by adding a sweet treat for sensory learners, but this is optional.
Important: The lesson plan does not require chocolate, but sharing a bar or two of any kind amongst your classroom may enhance the experience for sensory learners.
When can I use this lesson plan?
Use this lesson plan as part of fall Veterans’ Week and Remembrance Day activities. You can also use it to keep the conversation about remembrance and recognition going year round.
For example, you could tie this activity to:
- September 21 - International Day of Peace
- November 20 - World Children's Day
- February 12 - International Day against the Use of Child Soldiers
- April 7 - International Day of Reflection on the Genocide in Rwanda
- May 29 - International Day of UN Peacekeepers
- August 9 - National Peacekeepers' Day
These materials were developed with gracious support from the Dallaire Institute for Children, Peace, and Security.
- Date modified: