Canvas has three key organizational tools when you design your course site from scratch. Keep in mind, there are design templates available in Canvas Commons, if you prefer to start with a structured template.

Modules - Create a learning path for students to move them through the learning process.

Most content in Modules is linking from the Pages, Files, Assignments, Discussions, and Quizzes areas. As individual areas the do not provide students with a clear navigation path or organized layout, which is why Modules can bring it all together. You can post content in Modules and keep the Pages, Files, Assignment, Discussions, and Quizzes links hidden from students in the course navigation menu (Course Settings). Chunk Modules by Chapter, Topic, Theme, etc.

Pages - Create learning resources as a backbone to Modules. Pages can help direct students to content and highlight content. Pages are good for long form course content (if not available by hyperlink or separate file).

Files - Upload additional course content and artifacts (pdfs, ppts, docs, jpgs, etc.). Files can be inserted into Pages, Assessments, and Quizzes, so the students can access them right where they are needed.

In addition to the above:

You can set a "Home Page" in Canvas to aid in navigating the whole course
The Syllabus Tool and the Calendar can help instructors sequence "to dos" for students

Here is a visual break down of the three options.

Canvas Modules vs Pages vs Files (1).pdf