Home · For Teachers · Mercury Plague
9-10
Mercury Plague
Project type: Assignment
Related topic:
James Bay Project and the Cree
James Bay Project and the Cree
Subjects
History
Social Studies
Geography
Science
Political Science
Social Studies
Geography
Science
Political Science
Summary
Students will write a position paper on the causes and effects of mercury poisoning.
Duration
1 to 2 lessons
Purpose
To examine the causes and effects of mercury poisoning, to write a position paper responding to an issue
Materials
poster board
drawing materials
scissors and glue
newsmagazines and newspapers
PDF
Before Exploring
Provide students with a variety of newsmagazines and newspapers. In pairs, students will create a collage using key words and suitable drawings and/or pictures to illustrate types of pollution and the effect of pollution on the environment. Students should identify air, land, and water pollutants; outline the kinds of chemicals and effluence that can cause pollution; and identify the impact pollutants have on human and animal life.
Outline the Opportunity
Direct students to the topic James Bay Project and the Cree on the CBC Radio and Television Archives Web site and have them review Clip #5 and the Additional Clip “Mercury poisoning and the Cree.” Students will develop a position on an aspect of this situation, such as cleaning up the pollution, educating the Cree, or potential health problems associated with mercury poisoning. Students will write a persuasive essay of at least five paragraphs describing their position and, if applicable, their solution.
Revisit and Reflect
Have students share their essays and discuss the potential of their plans to address the mercury poisoning issue.
Extension
Students can write a petition demanding that the Quebec and Federal governments act to assist the Cree people who have been hurt by mercury poisoning. The petition should include ways that the governments should respond to the issue and state the argument to persuade people to sign.
