Visiting Sault Ste. Marie

History

• The Ninth-grade child learned about the history of Sault Ste. Marie, including its role as a significant trading post during the fur trade era.
• They gained knowledge about the Indigenous peoples who inhabited the area before European settlement, such as the Ojibwe and the Huron.
• They discovered the historical significance of the Sault Ste. Marie Canal, which played a vital role in the region's transportation and development.
• They learned about the involvement of Sault Ste. Marie in the War of 1812 and its impact on the city's growth.

Science

• The Ninth-grade child observed the natural features of Sault Ste. Marie, such as the St. Marys River and the nearby Great Lakes.
• They learned about the geological formations in the area, such as the ancient fault line that created the rapids in the St. Marys River.
• They studied the environmental impact of the Soo Locks and the importance of maintaining the ecosystem balance in the region.
• They explored the hydroelectric power generation at the nearby Sault Ste. Marie International Rapids and its significance in providing clean energy.

Social Studies

• The Ninth-grade child gained an understanding of the cultural diversity in Sault Ste. Marie, including the influence of Indigenous, French, and British heritage.
• They learned about the economic activities in the area, including tourism, manufacturing, and shipping, and how they contribute to the city's economy.
• They explored the social issues faced by the community, such as poverty, unemployment, and access to healthcare and education.
• They studied the government structure and local governance in Sault Ste. Marie, including the role of the mayor and city council.

Continued development related to the activity can include encouraging the Ninth-grade child to conduct further research on the specific historical events and figures associated with Sault Ste. Marie. They can also explore the environmental impact of human activities on the St. Marys River ecosystem and suggest ways to preserve it. Additionally, they can analyze the economic development strategies implemented by Sault Ste. Marie and propose alternative approaches for sustainable growth.

Book Recommendations

• The Voyageurs by Grace Lee Nute: A historical account of the fur trade era in Canada, providing insights into the lives of the explorers who navigated the waterways around Sault Ste. Marie.
• Native Peoples of the Great Lakes by Bobbie Kalman: Explores the rich history and culture of the Indigenous peoples who inhabited the Great Lakes region, including Sault Ste. Marie.
• The Soo Locks: Gateway to the Great Lakes by George J. Whelan: A comprehensive guide to the history, engineering, and economic significance of the Soo Locks in Sault Ste. Marie.