This epic drama looks at the opening of the Canadian West and the drought that led to the Depression in the Thirties. It is the saga of a family who left Eastern Canada to stake their future in the Prairies. Principle roles are played by Frances Hyland and James Douglas.
For more background information about this film, please visit the NFB.ca blog.
Ages 14 to 16
Study Guide - Guide 1
Geography - Territory: Agricultural
Geography - Territory: Regional
History - The Depression Era
Social Studies - Social History
Class brainstorms general questions not answered in film, e.g., how did drought affect price of bread in cities? What percentage of farmers stayed? Small research teams answer questions and report. Form “family” groups in class who will develop individual identities and rationale for staying or leaving their Prairie farm. Families explain their justification to other families who think differently. Invite guest(s) to class to share memories, photos of Depression era.