THE PROJECT ABOUT DAMS

Due: December 15

Introduction: Andover, population 4,000, is located along a very scenic portion of the Blackwater River just 40
miles from Concord and Manchester. The town has had many financial difficulties for the last 10 years. The
mayor and city council of the big city have proposed that a dam be constructed 5 miles downriver from town. This
dam will create a reservoir that floods half of Andover (Cilleyville). You will be required to write an environmental
impact statement and then speak before the town council which will make its recommendation to the F.E.R.C.
(Federal Energy Regulatory Commission). The people of the town will question you about your opinions and the
future of Andover.

#1.) Brainstorm some negative impacts that the dam might have on the town, the environment,
and the ecosystem.

#2.) Brainstorm some positives that the dam will bring to the environment, and the ecosystem.

Name:_____________________ Description:

#4.) Extras: (Describe character/Make up accent/costume/other)

#5.) Important notes and facts you should include in your environmental impact statement that
relate to your characters stance on the dam. Why is your character for or against?

#3.)

Speeches need to be well written, and well spoken. They should be

short and sweet. 2 minutes maximum. Members of the audience can
ask the person a question as long as it is specific to their speech.
Extra points are awarded to that person for good questions.

Welcome
Town People, Press, Businesses,
Introduction
Who you are?
Why are you here? (For or Against Dam / Thesis)
Body Paragraph
Discuss your most important reason (for/against) the dam, relate to
who you are. (Can you back up with a fact from research?)
Discuss a few secondary reasons,
Conclusion
Bring argument together (Quick Summary)
Offer solutions
Reinforce your main argument
Thank people for listening and urge them to vote (for/against)
Reminders: Be persuasive, provoke emotion, convince audience to
take action. Back up conclusions with facts from research

Copyright 2010 Ryan P. Murphy