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An Ocean Ranger Timeline
Project type: Introductory Activity
Related topic:
The Ocean Ranger Disaster
The Ocean Ranger Disaster
Subjects
Social Studies
Science
Business Studies
Science
Business Studies
Summary
In this introductory activity, students will browse the site and establish the sequence of events leading to up to, during and following the Ocean Ranger disaster.
Duration
1 lesson
Purpose
To understand how catastrophic events impact an industry
Before Exploring
Have the students do some background research about oil rigs: how they work in the sea, what mechanisms keep them upright, and the reasons and costs for obtaining undersea oil rather than land-based oil.
Gather as a class and share the information.
Outline the Opportunity
Have students browse the Ocean Ranger Disaster topic on the CBC Radio and Television Archives Web site for 15 to 20 minutes. As they browse, students should create a general timeline of events so that they understand what happened before, during and after the rig capsized. Next, students should revisit the site, filling in on their timelines details of the capsizing, the effect of the accident on the oil industry, and the report and its recommendations. Tailor this activity to the age and ability of your students.
Revisit and Reflect
Write the phrase: “Cost of doing business” on the board. Ask students to keep the statement in mind, then discuss the running and safety mechanisms of the rig compared to the cost of lives.
Using their timelines and the class discussion as a basis, students can write a short essay about whether it is worth pursuing high-risk energy sources.
Extension
Have groups of students research alternative sources of energy which might be pursued using money currently used for the building and operating of marine rigs. Students can create visual displays of their research and present their information to the class.
