INTRODUCTION
The small city of Waynesville, Texas, has been identified as a candidate for hydraulic fracturing (aka “fracking”). Fracking is defined by the United States Geological Survey (USGS) as an “oil and gas well development process that typically involves injecting water, sand, and chemicals under high pressure into a bedrock formation via the well. This process is intended to create new fractures in the rock as well as increase the size, extent, and connectivity of existing fractures.” The result of this process increases gas or oil flow in low-permeability rocks, aiding extraction. Amid worries of disruption to the small town life afforded by the citizens of Waynesville, and concern for environmental impacts, the city council is considering a ban on fracking within city limits. To aid in their decision, they have sought the opinion of members of the community and experts alike.
Your job will be to debate the following motion: The city of Waynesville should impose a ban on fracking .
You have been assigned a side, either Pro-ban or Anti-ban .
Written debate students will choose a specific role related to their Pro-ban or anti-ban assignment (based on the last digit of their student number). Oral debate students have been given specific roles by the T.A. debate moderators.
All students (written debate format and oral debate format) will complete an introductory written assignment worth 5 points. Instructions are given below:
ASSIGNMENT
1. Introductory Statement – To aid in the initial analysis of the spectrum of the communitys various positions, you have been asked to write a short, 100-150 word introductory statement. In that, you need to succinctly address the following:
a. Who are you? (What is your role?)
b. What is your position on the fracking ban? (Pro or Con?)
c. What are the top three reasons for your position on the ban?
d. Include at least 2 peer-reviewed, scientific articles to support the reasons for your position.
e. End this statement with a clear sentence telling the city council how it should vote. (Impose the ban or not.).
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a. Role: Local resident
b. In favor of the ban, arguing AGAINST fracking
c. your choice
