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Putting Out Fires
Project type: Introductory Activity
Related topic:
Fighting Forest Fires
Fighting Forest Fires
Subjects
History
Science
Science
Summary
In this introductory activity, students identify the technologies used in Canada to fight forest fires.
Duration
1 to 2 lessons
Purpose
To gain an understanding of how the technology of fighting forest fires has changed in Canada
Before Exploring
Write “forest fires” on the board or chart paper. Brainstorm students’ knowledge of fighting forest fires and record their responses.
Outline the Opportunity
Direct students to the topic Fighting Forest Fires on the CBC Radio and Television Archives Web site. Have students review the site, including The Story and Did You Know? sections.
Students will find and record information, in point form, on the main methods used since 1957 to fight fires in Canada and the advantages and disadvantages of each method. Have younger students work in groups and assign each group a specific clip from the site.
Revisit and Reflect
Create a chart with the three columns: Technology, Approximate Year(s), and Advantages/ Disadvantages. Have students share their findings and record the data for display and reference.
Ask: What has been the most effective change to forest-fighting technology? The least effective change?
Extension
Students can work in small groups to outline and illustrate a timeline of the changes in technology used for fighting forest fires.
