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The Impact of the James Bay Project
Project type: Assignment
Related topic:
James Bay Project and the Cree
James Bay Project and the Cree
Subjects
History
Social Studies
Geography
Social Studies
Geography
Summary
Students will examine the impact of Phase 1 of the James Bay Project on the lives of the Cree.
Duration
1 to 2 lessons
Purpose
To examine the impact, both positive and negative, of the James Bay Project on the Cree
Materials
poster board
scissors and glue
magazines
Before Exploring
Have students create, in their notebooks, two thought webs based on the following phrases: Aboriginal traditional lifestyles and How modern society has changed traditional aboriginal lifestyles. Students can draw from their personal knowledge and from their textbooks.
Outline the Opportunity
Direct students to the topic James Bay Project and the Cree on the CBC Radio and Television Archives Web site. Students will review Clips #3 and #5, and the Additional Clips “Mercury poisoning and the Cree” and “Traditions survive at James Bay” to identify the positive and negative influences of Phase 1 of the James Bay Project on the lifestyle of the Cree people.
Students will create a poster collage or use presentation software to illustrate both the benefits and the challenges the Cree faced as a result of the James Bay Project.
Revisit and Reflect
Have students share their projects with the class. Ask: What considerations should a company or the government take into account when planning a major project?
Extension
Have students write a letter to their provincial or territorial Environmental or Development Department presenting their thoughts on the considerations necessary before beginning a major project.
