The Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor and the New York State Canal Corporation have released new educational materials geared for fourth graders learning about the Erie Canal. The Erie Canal Adventure: Unlocking the Waterway Wonders includes a 40-minute video and two lesson plans. The materials are available for free online at the Erie Canal Learning Hub.
“The film and activities provide a new way for students to explore Erie Canal history and the region’s important waterways. As we look to the next century of the Erie Canal, we want to engage youth in understanding not only canal history, but the important role of waterway stewardship today and in the future,” said Bob Radliff, Executive Director of the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor.
The video explores the Erie Canal’s impact on the development of New York and the significance of waterways in connecting communities across the state. Two companion lesson plans give students the opportunity to learn about the types of fish that live in Western New York waters and test their design skills by building their own canal boat.
New York State Canal Corporation Director Brian U. Stratton said, “As we introduce these new learning modules, we invite the next generation of Canal enthusiasts and environmental stewards to embark on a journey of education and community engagement. From making the canals and canalway trails more accessible to ensuring our infrastructure remains safe and operable, the Canal Corporation is working to modernize and enhance New York’s Canal system. The Erie Canal Learning Hub supports our continued commitment to encouraging our youngest New Yorkers to learn and engage with a waterway and trail system that connect so many.”
The new materials were produced in partnership with Explore & More Children’s Museum, Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper, Buffalo Maritime Center, and Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park, with funding support from the National Park Foundation.
The Erie Canal Learning Hub includes videos, 3D tours, field trips, and curriculum materials. It is a joint initiative of Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor and New York State Canal Corporation. Visit http://www.eriecanalway.org/learning-hub for more information and to access the materials.
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