In this short documentary from conservationist Bill Mason, he illustrates that although the Great Lakes have had their ups and downs, nothing has been harder to take than what humans have done to them lately. In the film, a lone canoeist lives through the changes of geological history, through Ice Age and flood, only to find himself in the end trapped in a sea of scum.
Ages 9 to 14
Geography - Physical Geography/Geology
Science - Environmental Science
Before viewing: Brainstorm to learn what students already know about the formation of the Great Lakes, their importance to Canadian industry and transportation, and the present-day pollution of these lakes. Post-viewing: Discuss how the Great Lakes waters have been polluted as a result of human actions. Discuss possible solutions for the future.