Guardians of The Grasslands is a short documentary created by a group of dedicated conservationists, ranchers and Canadian filmmakers. The film explores the current state of one of the world’s most endangered ecosystems, the Great Plains grasslands, and the role that cattle play in its survival. Guardians of the Grassland was produced by Story Brokers Media House in collaboration with Public and Stakeholder Engagement (a program of the CCA), Ducks Unlimited Canada and the Nature Conservancy of Canada.
Through a funding partnership with the Canadian Cattle Foundation (CCF), Guardians of the Grasslands in the Classroom complements the 12-minute documentary through viewing and reflection questions, an online scavenger hunt and a student-developed board game based on their investigative research. It also connects to further readings exploring the key topics of biodiversity, soil health, climate change and land management.
“Guardians of the Grasslands in the Classroom is a curriculum-linked, purpose-driven opportunity for teachers and students to learn about and reflect on the endangered grasslands ecosystem in a way that fosters critical thinking and creativity,” said Melissa Galay, education specialist with AITC-C.
Most Canadians – let alone students – are not aware of the important role that cattle play in preserving and maintaining what remains of our country’s grasslands. Through the documentary and fun, interactive learning resources, students will learn how ranchers, conservationists and others are working together towards protecting the remaining grasslands.
“By developing Guardians of the Grasslands in the Classroom as an educational resource, students across Canada will have the opportunity to learn about cattle’s important role in preserving grassland ecosystems. We are proud to partner with Agriculture in the Classroom Canada to further showcase our industry’s positive environmental story to youth across the country,” said Bob Lowe, chair of the Canadian Cattle Foundation.
Link: www.aitc-canada.ca