Semester Group Project:

As part of a team based effort, you are expected to help create an effective research team in which you take a position or point of view on the topic of the formation of Lake Powell through the creation of the Glen Canyon Dam and then create and present the argument in a PowerPoint presentation.

The Assignment: Your team has been recognized as having an informed opinion about the pros and cons surrounding the Glenn Canyon Dam. Imagine that you have been asked to write a detailed opinion report and then present to a United States Senate committee.  Based on the report and your recommendations, the committee will decide whether or not to decommission the Glen Canyon Dam. The report should be concise, factual, evidence-based, and mindful of all perspectives.

A.     Individual Contribution (80 Points) Due:

Your individual contribution is a written paper* that focuses one of the perspectives that we have discussed in class, such as historical, cultural, economic, social and environmental. In support of this perspective, draw from what you have learned from the critical readings, the reflections of your research/literature review, as well as class readings and discussion.  Provide a brief history of the perspective, as well as a description of the other primary viewpoints both for and against the continued existence of the Dam.

B.     Group Summary Report (30 Points) Due:

As a team, compare and contrast all the perspectives, taking what you have learned from the individual papers and research. Also apply what you have learned from the critical reading and critical thinking matrixes. Form a team-based conclusion as to the merits of each side of the Glen Canyon Dam debate and decide on your recommendation for action. Submit a final one to two Summary Report to your instructor of your teams’ decision.

The team will present** their recommendation to the rest of the class in a presentation of no more than 20 minutes that clearly identifies the issues and populations involved, shows awareness and understanding of multiple perspectives, is supported by appropriate and relevant evidence, and presents and justifies a proposed action plan.

C.     Peer review (25 Points) Due:

Each student independently of his or her group will write a review (one page in length) of the group process. Please clearly review your role as well as the participation of the other members of the team. It should be honest but not vindictive. The last paragraph should include a review of what you have learned about yourself in a team dynamic.

*        Typed (12-point), double spaced, with a title page and a page of end notes or works cited. Also each page should be numbered.

**      We have seen that there are many different ways in getting a point across, including written, visual and the use of interactive question and answer periods. Ultimately your team must select a presentation format, which matches the dynamic of the team, the information being conveyed and the audience for which it is intended. My preference and the default is a power point presentation.