Social Studies Lesson: Should Dams Be Removed?

Students use research, evidence, and reasoning to explore the moral and legal issues related to dams, fish stocks, and hydroelectricity, taking into account the impacts of climate change on the environment and communities. To practice persuasive writing skills, students create and present an op-ed video or oral presentation about whether or not dams should be removed.

Inquire: Students examine moral and legal questions about dams, the use of rivers, fish stocks, and hydroelectric electricity.

Investigate: Students learn about fish migration patterns and participate in a jigsaw activity to explore conflicts between differing interests over the removal of dams on rivers.

Inspire: Students create a position paper about how to approach this conflict while addressing the challenges of climate change and ensuring healthy fish stocks.