This short documentary looks at the deep gorge of the Fraser River, shadowed by the mountain ranges of British Columbia. It is a highway for the mysterious migration of the Pacific salmon. The river shallows appear red with the flailing fish as they push up-river to spawn and die. A natural wonder puzzling to the scientist, the fish migration of spring and summer provides renewed activity for fishermen and cannery workers.
Ages 12 to 17
Geography - Natural Resources
History and Citizenship Education - Culture and Currents of Thought (1500-present)
Media Education - Documentary Film
Social Studies - Environmental Challenges
Ask students to examine the role of the salmon harvest in today's Canadian economy. Have students research and debate developments in fish farming (differences from natural stocks; its pros and cons). Have them illustrate the life cycle in a creative way (animation; drama; Reader's Theatre). Have media students compare the film's style to contemporary documentary, and examine the effect of its dramatic depiction of the salmon's role in the Canadian economy.