- Definition
Resistance is when a group of people actively opposes someone or something in power, like the Métis people did during the Red River Resistance when they stood up for their rights and land.
The Red River Resistance was when the Métis, led by Louis Riel, formed their own government to oppose the Canadian government's attempt to take their land.
How to teach this in 30 seconds
Try this analogy: Resistance is like when a whole team decides to walk off the field together because the referee made a rule change that was completely unfair to them.
Ask your child: Why might a group decide to resist instead of just following orders?
Common mix-up: Kids might think resistance is just complaining or a peaceful protest. The term often refers to an organized group using force to oppose a government or authority.
Examples
- The French Resistance during World War II fought against the German occupation of their country.
- The 1837-1838 Rebellions in Upper and Lower Canada were armed attempts to resist the ruling British authorities.
resistance is a term used in Ontario’s Kindergarten to Grade 8 curriculum.
Where this shows up
- Grade 6 Health and Physical Education
- Grade 9 Science and Technology
- Grade 6 Social Studies / History / Geography
- Grade 7 Social Studies / History / Geography
+12 more mentions across the curriculum
The descriptions on this page are SmartStudy’s own original, plain-language writing — not the Ministry’s wording. They are aligned to the Ontario Curriculum, © King’s Printer for Ontario. For the Ministry’s official wording, see the source link below. SmartStudy is an independent service and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the Government of Ontario or the Ministry of Education. Ontario Curriculum and Resources ↗
