Down in the Dumps

After an introduction to municipal sludge, middle school ecologists consider the pros and cons of dumping in the Hudson River Canyon. The class is split into two groups: one to debate in favor or dumping and one to debate against the process. Both groups research the deep-sea dump site and gather evidence for their stance. After the debate, individuals construct a compare and contrast essay. Not only can you use this in an ecology unit, but also as a persuasive speaking or writing assignment in language arts.