In this activity students will be able to evaluate potential positive and negative effects from constructing a dam on a river. They will do this by role playing differing perspectives and concerns relating to a complex issue. Start by getting them to name their imaginary town.
Then click on the following animation to view the important information about the scenario.
- Place some of the arguments for and against on the white board for discussion purposes
- Before activity starts have index cards prepared with one of the following characters written on each card. Hand out the role-playing information on index cards and ask the students to prepare things that they would like to say at the meeting on the back of the card based on who they are.
Please click here to download and print the document that contains the cards and arguments
It is recommended to select the “double-sided” option when printing. This will match up the front and back of the cards. - Arrange the classroom to represent a meeting room with the Band/Town Councillors seated behind a table at the front and the rest of the audience in a circle facing them
- Have each class member make their argument
- Ask the Town or Band council members to make a decision by voting for or against the building of the dam
- Evaluation: Following the decision, have students summarize the ‘pros’ and ‘cons’ including effects on people, plants and animals
