Lesson Plan: Responding to a Dying Industry

Lesson Plan

Introduction

Discuss with students that for more than a decade after the cod moratorium of 1992, the cod fishery continued its free fall. Fisher people understood that the ban was necessary if the stocks were ever to recover. Research during the ensuing 20 years seemed to indicate that the effects of excessive over-fishing destroyed an entire population of cod within a 15-year period. Many development initiatives and programs were aimed at sustaining the economy of Newfoundland and Labrador. While some experienced success, others were considered a complete failure.

The Task

Students will create a multi-media display to demonstrate initiatives to re-build the Newfoundland and Labrador economy. Students will research the success and failures of these developments and create a multi-media presentation of their choice to demonstrate their knowledge. Students should include in their display how the people of the province have been affected by the collapse of the cod fishery.

The Process

Students can work independently or in groups. Their research should begin with a review of the topic The Rise and Fall of the Cod Fishery on the CBC Digital Archives website. Their research should continue online or by using other relevant resources. All resources consulted must be appropriately cited. Their presentations should include visual and written displays that will be presented to their class. Students should prepare to answer questions from their classmates.

Conclusion

Have students present to the class and identify at least four or five initiatives that were implemented following the cod moratorium of 1992. Discuss and compare as a class what has been presented and the devastating impact on the province's people.