The Canadian Shield extends across almost half of Canada from Labrador in
the north east corner, through northern Quebec and Ontario, northern
Manitoba and Saskatchewan, parts of Nunavut and the Northwest Territories,
and the north east tip of Alberta. This region is distinguishable by its ancient
Precambrian rock and sparse vegetation.
Millions of years ago, volcanic forces in the Canadian Shield formed mountains
that have eroded over time. Glaciers from the last Ice Age gouged holes in the
earth and created marshy wetlands, lakes, and rivers. First Nations peoples and
early explorers used these waterways as their main method of transportation.
The link between life in the Canadian Shield and its geographical features is
emphasized throughout the chapter. The effects of climate are explained
through a climate zone map which reminds us that temperatures are generally
cooler and drier further north, in the Arctic and Boreal regions of the Shield.
We also learn of the deep respect First Nations and Inuit peoples of the Shield
have for everything that comes from, and lives on, the land.
The strong connection between the abundance of a natural resource and the
establishment of a community is also presented. The Canadian Shield is a major
mining area, and the copper, nickel, and diamond industries are central to its
economy. Current environmental issues concerning resource-based communities
are also discussed. The chapter concludes with students being asked to consider
how to protect the mainly coniferous forests of this region and to make
decisions about the sustainable use of its water systems.
the north east corner, through northern Quebec and Ontario, northern
Manitoba and Saskatchewan, parts of Nunavut and the Northwest Territories,
and the north east tip of Alberta. This region is distinguishable by its ancient
Precambrian rock and sparse vegetation.
Millions of years ago, volcanic forces in the Canadian Shield formed mountains
that have eroded over time. Glaciers from the last Ice Age gouged holes in the
earth and created marshy wetlands, lakes, and rivers. First Nations peoples and
early explorers used these waterways as their main method of transportation.
The link between life in the Canadian Shield and its geographical features is
emphasized throughout the chapter. The effects of climate are explained
through a climate zone map which reminds us that temperatures are generally
cooler and drier further north, in the Arctic and Boreal regions of the Shield.
We also learn of the deep respect First Nations and Inuit peoples of the Shield
have for everything that comes from, and lives on, the land.
The strong connection between the abundance of a natural resource and the
establishment of a community is also presented. The Canadian Shield is a major
mining area, and the copper, nickel, and diamond industries are central to its
economy. Current environmental issues concerning resource-based communities
are also discussed. The chapter concludes with students being asked to consider
how to protect the mainly coniferous forests of this region and to make
decisions about the sustainable use of its water systems.