Canada and the Cold War: The Gouzenko Affair

Synopsis

In this unit of 7 lessons, students will learn, appreciate, and assess the significance of the Gouzenko affair, the first event of the Cold War. Using primary-source documents from the collection of Library and Archives Canada, students will apply methods of historical inquiry to better understand the defection of Igor Gouzenko and subsequent related events. To demonstrate a high level of competence and understanding, students will write research essays for a booklet and if feasible, a website entitled “An Anthology of Student Research Essays: The Gouzenko Affair”. Students may present the booklet of this culminating activity to the school library.

Overall Expectations

By the end of the unit, students will:
•	demonstrate an understanding of the impact of the Gouzenko affair on Canada and other countries;
•	illustrate skills of historical inquiry while examining primary documents;
•	locate, critically analyze and interpret evidence from primary sources;
•	demonstrate the ability to think critically and creatively;
•	exhibit effective written and oral communication skills;
•	manage time efficiently and work effectively in independent and collaborative study;
•	formulate questions to facilitate research of primary sources;
•	create organizers to arrange research;
•	critically examine the rights and responsibilities of Canadian citizens, groups and governments;
•	demonstrate a high level of competence by producing research essays for a booklet and/or website;
•	appreciate and respect diverse opinions about the Gouzenko affair;
•	use appropriate vocabulary of the Cold War when communicating aspects of the Gouzenko affair.