This is a hands-on, technology based unit built around the novel, Phoenix Rising, by Karen Hesse. Students read the novel, which is a fictional account of the aftermath of a nuclear power plant explosion near Boston MA.  It depicts what happens when a rural family
adopts the widow and son of the plant manager.  The father has been killed as a result of radiation exposure and the son is very ill from
staying by his father's side.
    Groups of students will use the Internet to research aspects of nuclear power and nuclear weapons. They will prepare a report on their findings and present it to the class.  The unit lasts 15 to 16 class sessions and includes 5 quizzes, (one for each 6 chapters of the book,) which the students can take via e-mail.

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