|
Overview:
This lesson asks students to research current and proposed methods of assisting the recovery of northern right whale populations. Students will conduct Internet research to investigate the best strategies to help save right whales.
Connections to the Curriculum:
Geography, life science
Connections to the National Geography Standards:
Standard 14: "How human actions modify the physical environment"
Time:
Two hours
Materials Required:
- Computer with Internet access
Objectives:
Students will
- read and answer questions about a general article on northern right whale populations;
- research and take notes on threats to the northern right whale population;
- suggest potential remedies for the declining northern right whale population and further research that should be conducted; and
- investigate the best strategies for saving the northern right whale.
Geographic Skills:
Asking Geographic Questions
Acquiring Geographic Information
Organizing Geographic Information
Answering Geographic Questions
Analyzing Geographic Information
S u g g e s t e d P r o c e d u r e
Opening:
Have students read the article Northern Right Whale on Path to Extinction. Ask them to answer these questions in writing or in a class discussion:
- Do scientists think northern right whale populations can recover on their own, or will humans need to help?
- What is the most serious threat to this species?
- What are some things that have been done to help this species?
Development:
Closing:
Have students discuss what they learned and speculate about possible objections to measures taken to save right whales. Who might object and why?
Suggested Student Assessment:
Extending the Lesson:
Related Links:
| 
Check out:
