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The True Value of Our Oceans

Middle

Description

Ocean conservation is most often described in terms of environmental benefits.  In this video famed cartoonist Jim Toomey (Sherman's Lagoon) provides an overview of the human social and economic benefits of maintaining healthy marine environments. Students will gain a new understanding of the tremendous natural capital of our ocean ecosystems, which extends far beyond traditional dollars and cents.

General Assessment

Recommendation of how and where to use it

This film actively engages students in thoughtful reflection about the human costs of ocean degradation and supports sustainability lessons examining marine ecosystems. One of the most significant threats to ocean health is plastic pollution. Many countries, including Canada, are exploring a ban of one time use items like drinking straws. The video could reinforce a cross-curricular action project focused on this theme. A class could examine revenue losses associated with plastic pollution impacts on fisheries, aquaculture and tourism. This information could form the basis of a student driven municipal plan to reduce plastics in their community.

Relevant Curriculum Units

The following tool will allow you to explore the relevant curriculum matches for this resource. To start, select a province listed below.

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  • Alberta
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    • Grade 7
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      • Science
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        • Interactions and Ecosystems
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      • Science
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        • Freshwater and Saltwater Systems
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      • Social Studies
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        • Global Issues and Governance: Complex global problems require international cooperation to make difficult choices for the future.
  • Manitoba
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      • Science
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        • Interactions Within Ecosystems
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        • People & Places in the World: World Geography
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        • Water Systems on Earth
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        • Cultures
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        • Water Systems on Earth's Surface
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        • The Circumpolar World: Geography of the Circumpolar World
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        • Freshwater and Saltwater Systems
  • Nova Scotia
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        • Social Studies 6: World Issues
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    • Grade 8
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        • Freshwater and Saltwater Systems
  • Ontario
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        • People and Environments: Canada's Interactions With The Global Communty
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        • Life Systems: Interactions in the Environment
  • Prince Edward Island
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        • Step 4Relevant matches
        • Water Systems on Earth
  • Saskatchewan
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        • Science 7: Life Science: Interactions within Ecosystems
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        • Science 8: Water Systems on Earth
  • Yukon Territory
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        • Global Issues and Governance: Complex global problems require international cooperation to make difficult choices for the future.

Themes Addressed

Citizenship (1)

  • Sustainable Consumption

Water (1)

  • Marine Environments