Canadians recognize Remembrance Day, originally called Armistice Day, every 11 November at 11 a.m. It marks the end of hostilities during the First World War and an opportunity to recall all those who have served in the nation’s defence.
Please watch the following video with your children and discuss the messages presented.
What is the purpose of the poem?
What is the message of the poem?
What differing perspectives are being presented in this video? Why?
What symbols of peace/conflict are presented?
In your opinion, what are the most impactful images or words present in this video? Why do you think so?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N8O062egH-U
In Flanders Fields
John McCrae - 1872-1918
In Flanders fields the poppies blow (2)
Between the crosses, row on row, (2)
That mark our place; (3)
and in the sky (2)
The larks, still bravely singing, fly (2)
Scarce heard amid the guns below. (3)
We are the Dead. (2)
Short days ago We lived, (2)
felt dawn, (2)
saw sunset glow, (2)
Loved (2)
and were loved, (2)
and now we lie (1)
In Flanders fields. (3)
Take up our quarrel with the foe: (2)
To you from failing hands we throw The torch; (2)
be yours to hold it high. (2)
If ye break faith with us who die (2)
We shall not sleep, (3)
though poppies grow (2)
In Flanders fields.
