WV State Standards: Science: SC.9.2.3, SC.9.6.2 National Standards:  Writing: 4 Science: 11 Economics: 1, 2 Blooms Taxonomy: Evaluation, Synthesis, Analysis, Application, Comprehension, Knowledge 21st Century Skills: Learning and Innovation Skills  Critical Thinking and Problem Solving Skills Communication and Collaboration Skills Information, Media and Technology Skills Information Literacy Media Literacy Life and Career Skills Flexibility & Adaptability Initiative & Self-Direction Social & Cross-Cultural Skills Productivity & Accountability Leadership & Responsibility

Overview:

The students will be using the written letter and research information gathered in this lesson to prepare and conduct their oral presentation and class debate.

Objective(s):

1. The students will use written and oral communication skills while presenting their point of view
2. The students will use debate skills to discuss the issue of rainforest destruction for their particular point of view(based on their group role cards).

Time Required:

This lesson will take one 45 minute class period.

Pre-Requisite Skills:

Writing, debate, and oral communication skills.

• Thinking and problem-solving skills
• Communication skills
• Information and media literacy skills
• Interpersonal and collaborative skills
• Self-direction
• Accountability and adaptability

Research information, Written letter, Paper, Pencil

1. The students will take turns presenting all of the information they learned from their perspective based on the group role card.
2. Each group will then debate whether or not the Mexican Government should or shouldn't cut down the rainforests and state what the opportunity costs are.

Students not able to present orally will be allowed to turn in assignments in written form expressing his/her views. Students wishing to present additional items and or materials will be allowed to do so.

Author's Notes:

Please enjoy this time to watch your students develop their communication and group skills.

The students will be assessed using an oral presentation, collaborative work, and class debate rubric.