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Grade 4-7, 8-9, 10-12
Subject Cross-Curricular
Resource type Lesson plan/Unit plan
Duration Over 60 minutes

About This Resource

This SIOP‑aligned ELL lesson introduces students to Seraphim “Joe” Fortes, a beloved historical figure in Vancouver, through the NFB animated short Joe. Students build background knowledge, practice targeted vocabulary, and develop listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills while learning about Joe’s life, community contributions, and legacy as Vancouver’s first official lifeguard. The lesson includes guided video viewing tasks, structured interaction activities, differentiated supports for multiple ELL levels, and ready‑to‑use worksheets and graphic organizers. It promotes comprehension of historical biography, community roles, and local heritage.
"Joe Fortes - A Vancouver Community Hero"

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