Students will investigate the state of the Chesapeake Bay, create a special interest group, propose legislation, and develop a brochure, poster, or public service announcement promoting preservation of the Chesapeake Bay.  The final part of the project entails students’ writing a letter to a Senator or Representative of their choice in which they share their findings and ask for their assistance in preserving the Bay. Students will write to organizations’ that advance environmental protection of the Chesapeake Bay, eliciting evidence and seeking ideas for their laws and presentations.  Students will present their proposals to their classmates.

Essential Curriculum Indicators:

Ø      Students will use case studies in order to synthesize and evaluate the functioning and effectiveness of the American political system.

Ø      Students will analyze current public policies in order to evaluate how the political system adapts to meet changing societal needs.

BCPS Indicator and Supporting Content

Ø      Students will evaluate the effectiveness of government policy in achieving socio-economic goals.

Ø      Note:  Completion of this required activity satisfies ten Student Service-Learning hours.

Materials

Ø      Internet access in the school computer lab.

Ø      Remy, United States Government textbook.