Opinion Writing: Lakes and Rivers
Worksheets
1 hour 30 minutesGrades6, 7, 8English Language Arts
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
Written by Mallory Swafford
About this activity
In this activity, students will watch and respond to the video Why Lakes and Rivers Should Have the Same Rights as Humans. Students will organize their thoughts, form their opinions through analysis, and write an opinion piece.
Everything you need to teach it
- Opinion Writing: Lakes and RiversView Activity
Teaching tips
- After viewing the video Why Lakes and Rivers Should Have the Same Rights as Humans, have students share their thoughts with a partner.
- Open the classroom up for a brief discussion on students’ opinions of the video. Potential discussion questions include: What did you think about the video? How did the video make you feel? Do you believe lakes and rivers should have the same rights as humans? What do human rights mean to you?
- Have students complete the “Opinion: Why Lakes and Rivers Should Have the Same Rights as Humans” worksheet.
- This activity may be placed at the beginning of an opinion unit or lesson. It may also be used as a refresher on opinion writing.
- To scaffold this activity down, consider displaying the worksheet on a projector or smart board. Record students’ thoughts and opinions on the notes section of the worksheet so students can refer to the projection as needed. You may also consider adding the sentence stem: “I believe Lakes and Rivers (should/should not) have the same rights as humans because ________________.”
- To scaffold this activity up, have students present their opinions followed by a brief debate between students who believe lakes and rivers should have the same rights as humans and those that do not. Additionally, students can complete independent research on the efficacy of protecting waterways to strengthen their stances.
From the scientist review
Through this activity, students can write a position statement on the significance of keeping our rivers clean and free of pollution. After reviewing the exercise, we came to the conclusion that it is well-sourced and has passed our science credibility process.
Want this to fit your class?
Add your location for local examples, questions, and action ideas.
About the teacher writer
Mallory Swafford
Teacher
I graduated in 2014 from Southern Illinois University, Carbondale with a zoology degree. I worked in the field of zoology until 2018 when I decided to make the switch to education. I now am certified to teach first through sixth grades in general education. I am endorsed in middle grades science and I expect to finish my master's in high school biology this year. I love teaching science and am excited to work with the Subject to Climate team!
