Grade 7 students at La Verendrye School (LVS) are diving deep into the world of orcas through a unique inquiry project aimed at raising awareness and funds for endangered species. Led by Grade 7 teacher Camille Sanderson, the project emphasizes not only the scientific knowledge but also the cultural significance of orcas in Indigenous traditions.
Each class at LVS has been assigned an animal to study, and Sanderson's students have embraced the orca as their focus.
"So, we've decided to do an inquiry project about our class animal the orca, and we've learned that they are endangered."
To support their cause, the class is organizing a snack sale fundraiser, featuring items like Gatorade, chocolate bars, candy, and homemade cookies. The goal is to raise $100, which will go toward a symbolic adoption through the World Wildlife Fund. Sanderson explains.
"A symbolic adoption means that when you donate the money you save an orca and then you get something in return. So, once we make our donation we will get a plush orca toy and a certificate to symbolize the adoption."
Grade 7 student Liam Allanson shared his excitement about the project.
"It feels really nice to be doing this project so we can help out with saving an orca and all the workers who are trying to save them."
Allanson emphasized the importance of orcas in representing values like protection and community within Indigenous cultures.
With both educational and charitable aims, the inquiry project not only enriches their learning experience but also empowers the students to make a positive impact on wildlife conservation.