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The James Bay Hydroelectric Project was to be the key to a financially independent, self-sufficient Quebec. The project would cover an area 30 times the size of Prince Edward Island and employ as many as 18,000 workers at one time. The massive turbines would be fed by huge reservoirs and produce over 10,000 megawatts of energy; more than enough to supply all the energy needs of New York City.

Students will research the James Bay Project to answer the question, “How does the James Bay Project work?” Students should focus on identifying the different components of the project, the use of land, the damming of rivers, the building of turbines and stations, the eventual capacity of the project, and so on. Students will demonstrate the components of the project in a poster that includes visuals and text, or by creating a working or static model.

Have students present their projects to the class, explaining and illustrating the process of operation for the James Bay Hydroelectric Project. Students should be prepared to ask and answer questions. Ask: Why can this project be considered a “marvel of engineering”?