Social Studies Lesson: Mitigating Water Scarcity
Lesson Plan
1 hour 20 minutesGrades6, 7, 8Social Studies, English Language Arts
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Written by David Garnick
About this lesson
Students conduct and present research on water scarcity mitigation strategies in Hawai'i. Using Hawai'i as an example, students can research water mitigation strategies relevant to their own local contexts.
Inquire: Students reflect on a quote about climate change and generate questions about potential solutions to water scarcity in Hawai'i.
Investigate: Students conduct independent research to identify various solutions to water scarcity, drawing on methods discussed in previous lessons.
Inspire: Students collaborate to create an infographic that outlines the problem of water scarcity in Hawai'i and proposes practical solutions.
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Suggestions
- This lesson aligns with Hawai’i’s Nā Hopena A‘o HĀ-BREATH Framework.
- The Investigate and Inspire sections could be extended over several class periods.
- This lesson can be used to reinforce the skills of critical thinking and research as students investigate and propose solutions to real-world environmental challenges.
- Teachers outside of Hawai'i can adapt the research to water scarcity in their region.
- Teachers should be aware that these discussions may evoke concern among students. It's important to create a supportive environment where students feel empowered to explore solutions and express their thoughts. Teachers can explore SubjectToClimate’s Climate Anxiety Resource Guide for additional resources.
- Teachers can facilitate discussions on the broader implications of water scarcity on Indigenous or other under-represented communities, encouraging empathy and understanding of diverse perspectives.
- This lesson highlights the importance of student action in addressing environmental justice issues, empowering students to propose meaningful solutions through their infographic presentations.
Prerequisites
- This is lesson 3 of 3 in our 6th-8th grade Social Studies Unit: Water Scarcity in Hawai'i.
- Students should have a basic understanding of environmental issues, including factors contributing to water scarcity, such as population growth, agriculture, and pollution.
- Teacher should review students' jigsaw notes from previous lessons on driving factors of water scarcity in Hawai'i and check for understanding to ensure students have a clear grasp of the concepts and discussions so far.
- Teacher can gather additional lists of online resources or print resources for students to use in their research.
- Students will need access to computers or other devices to conduct research during the lesson.
Differentiation
- For an extension activity, students can research and compare water scarcity initiatives in other regions or countries facing similar challenges, such as California in the United States, Mexico City, parts of India, or regions in Africa experiencing droughts.
- For students needing additional support, provide guided research resources or pre-selected articles that summarize different methods to mitigate water scarcity.
- Offer graphic organizers or templates to help students structure their infographics.
- Teachers can challenge students to analyze the economic impacts of water scarcity on various sectors in Hawai'i or their community, such as agriculture, tourism, or development.
- The research and infographic creation can be completed individually.
From the scientist review
Students can come up with ideas for how to lessen water insecurity in Hawaii during this lesson, which also emphasizes the significance of researching water shortage. We reviewed the lesson, and it passed our credibility test for science.
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About the teacher writer
David Garnick
David Garnick holds a Bachelor of Arts in Urban Studies and Political Science. He has 2 years of experience teaching Social Studies, English Language Arts in grade 8. He is a Teach for America corps member
