Aquaculture: Down on the Salmon Farm

Secondary, Middle

Description

This resource provides students with the opportunity to explore the problems, technological solutions and future challenges relating to the fin-fish aquaculture industry. The three activities included are described below.

Activity One- Students read an article on aquaculture and analyze the scientific and technological background needed for a career in fin-fish aquaculture. A scenario is then presented  in which a fictitious Foundation that supports research in aquaculture technology, has received proposals involving three new technologies for fin-fish farming- land based, open ocean, and ocean drifting.  Students are asked by the Foundation to research the three technologies and recommend which one should be supported.

Activity Two- Students view a video called "Down on the Salmon Farm". They record information on the causes and possible solutions relating to the key problems raised.  Special attention is focused on how problems and solutions impact the ecosystem.

Activity Three- Working in groups, students complete an analysis of  three proposals for future aquaculture techniques. For each strategy they will determine which current problem is addressed, what new problems may arise from its application and what further technological considerations may be required. As a culminating activity, an oral presentation, power point presentation or printed brochure summarizing the group's findings is prepared and presented to the Foundation's Board.

The video "Down on the Salmon Farm" is available from the Maine Public Broadcasing Network (MPBN) at a cost of $25.00.

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General Assessment

Themes Addressed

Relevant Curriculum Units