The beautiful San Francisco Bay.
Over the last two weeks I have had the opportunity to preview the film "Saving The Bay," as I prepare educational Viewing Guides for teachers. Even though I have called the Bay Area home for many years, I realized through watching this documentary that there is so much I do not know about my own backyard—the Bay. In addition to learning from "Saving The Bay," it has inspired me to explore new areas and to get more involved in restoration efforts. I am hopeful that students will also be inspired by this film and encouraged to go outside and enjoy our magnificent home.
"Saving The Bay," a film by Ron Blatman, is a four-part documentary chronicling the history of the San Francisco Bay. From the formation of the Bay itself to the formation of Save The Bay, this beautiful film tells the story of the Bay through striking images and knowledgeable voices. Complete with impressive animation, historical video footage and a lovely musical score, "Saving The Bay" offers an expansive overview of a vibrant San Francisco Bay region and how it came to be what it is today.
The first episode, "Saving The Bay," details the history of the San Francisco estuary and the first people to inhabit the region. "Harbor of Harbors", tells the story of San Francisco Bay’s dramatic transformation following the California Gold Rush. The third episode, "Miracle Workers," focuses on the engineering and industrialization of the Bay. "Bay in the Balance" shares how the Bay was saved and plans for the Bay’s future.
"Saving The Bay" is a great educational tool for teachers and alternative educators alike. This film presents a plethora of information in an engaging manner and covers many California State Science and Social Studies Standards for grades 4-12. Furthermore, upon watching parts or all of "Saving The Bay," students will develop a deeper understanding of their local environment and perhaps be motivated to participate in the on-going effort to save the Bay.