civics test

Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms (CCRF)

A part of the Constitution of Canada, specifically the Constitution Act, 1982.

Fundamental Freedoms

Rights including freedom of expression and freedom of assembly.

Democratic Rights

The right to vote and run for public office.

Mobility Rights

The right to move and reside anywhere in Canada.

Legal Rights

The right to a fair trial and due process.

Equality Rights

The right to equal protection and benefit of the law.

Minority Language Education Rights

The right for minority language groups to education in their language.

Official Languages

Rights related to the use of English and French in government.

Notwithstanding Clause

Allows federal or provincial governments to pass legislation that may violate certain rights in the Charter.

First Reading

The introduction of a bill without debate.

Second Reading

General debate on the principle of the bill.

Committee Stage

Detailed examination of the bill where amendments can be made.

Report Stage

Consideration of amendments made in committee.

Third Reading

Final debate and vote on the bill.

Royal Assent

Governor General gives final approval for a bill to become law.

Members of Parliament (MPs)

338 elected representatives who represent constituencies.

Senators

105 appointed members who review legislation.

House of Commons

The elected lower chamber of Parliament.

Senate

The appointed upper chamber of Parliament.

Prime Minister

The head of the government in Canada.

Governor General

Represents the monarch in Canada.

Leader of the Opposition

Leads the largest party not in government.

Parliamentary Democracy

A type of government where the executive is derived from the legislative.

Constitutional Monarchy

A form of government where a monarch acts as the head of state within the parameters of a constitution.