Civics Today Citizenship, Economics, & You

Chapter 18: What Is Economics?

Web Activity Lesson Plans

Introduction
In this chapter students have learned that economics is the study of how people use limited resources to meet unlimited wants or needs. Consumers, businesses, and governments all must make economic decisions based on scarcity. To make wise choices consumers must understand the type of economy they have and stay informed. They must weigh their needs and wants against the impact the production of those products and services might have on others and the environment. In this activity students will take a closer look at the need for products and the cost of supplying them.

Lesson Description
In this lesson students will visit the Web site maintained by the U.S. Department of the Interior. There is considerable debate about drilling of roil in the ANWR area of Alaska. Should we use this resource to reduce our dependence on foreign oil? Should we protect the environmental and plant and animal species that populate it? Students will answer several questions then prepare an opinion on the issue.

1. The learner will be able to identify animals possibly affected by drilling.
2. The learner will be able to describe possible outcomes from drilling for oil in the Refuge.
3. The learner will be able to defend a position on whether or not drilling should be allowed in the Refuge.

1. .01%
2. 58% as of 2006
3. Arctic Caribou, the Porcupine Caribou, and polar bears
4. Answers will vary
5. Provisions include: using the best technology available, equipment removal and land restoration, no significant adverse effect on fish and wildlife or their habitat; implement seasonal limits on production; avoid developing permanent ice roads. Students should sufficiently support their opinion, using information from the article.