Arctic National Wildlife Refuge

Introduction:
A herd of caribou grazes peacefully on the arctic tundra when something makes them lift their heads and freeze in position.  Suddenly the herd begins to run as the noise of an approaching land rover becomes more distinct.  Is this going to become a common occurrence?

Task:
The Artic National Wildlife Refuge is a topic of concern for many environmental groups.   Research information about the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge and the proposal to drill for oil there in an effort to gain an understanding of the issue.

~ Where is the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge(ANWR)?  When and why was it established?  What type of wildlife is found there?  How many acres is it?
Write an informative paragraph about the ANWR

~ Who favors drilling for oil in the ANWR?  Who opposes it?  What arguments does each side give to support their position?
Construct a T-chart listing the players and their positions in this issue.

~ How do you feel about the issue?
Write a letter to one of your U.S. Senators to let them know how you feel about drilling for oil in the ANWR.

Process:
1.  Work in pairs
2.  Research facts about the ANWR.  Each person should gather information from a different web site.
3.  Write an informative paragraph about the ANWR.
4.  Research the issue of drilling for oil.  Each person should choose one side of the issue to research.
5.  Compile your information into a T-chart listing the players and their positions.
6.  Use the web site to discover the name and address of one of your senators.
7.  Write a letter to your Senator expressing your opinion on drilling for oil in ANWR.

Resources:
www.sierraclub.org/wildlands/arctic
www.anwr.org
www.savearcticrefuge.org
www.senate.gov/

Evaluation/Assessment:
Paragraph:
_____/5 Its location
_____/10 When and why it was established
_____/5 Types of wildlife present
_____/5 Number of acres

T-Chart
_____/10 List of players who support drilling and their arguments. (at least two)
_____/10 List of players who oppose drilling and their arguments. (at least two)

Letter:
_____/10 Name and address of one of your U.S. Senators
_____/20 Your feelings on drilling for oil in the ANWR supported by information gathered during your research.

_____/75 points possible

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