To Drill or Not to Drill.

Do you think oil drilling should be allowed in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge? Read "Drilling Paradise Dry?" Then follow the instructions below for a mind-opening classroom debate.

First, divide the class into two groups, with one group representing the oil industry and another group representing environmentalists.

Then as a class, set up the rules and structure of the debate. For example, what is the maximum time for research and preparation? How many representatives from each group will present arguments? How long will each argument last?

Using the points below as a general guide, do additional research to form your arguments.

[check] Present the debate.

[check] Fill in the anonymous ballot below. Give it to your teacher.

[check] Tally and discuss the results. What does your class think? To drill or not to drill?

Oil Industry

* The U.S. consumes the most oil in the world. Drilling at home reduces the need to import oil.

* New oil-drilling technology will lessen the impact on the environment.

* The proposed oil-drilling and exploration area occupies only 1.5 million of 19 million acres.

Environmentalists

* The diverse wildlife within the Refuge must be protected or species could face future extinction.

* In addition to drilling sites, facilities and roads disrupt animal migratory routes and animal habitats.

* The recoverable amount of oil totals just over one year's worth of additional oil, at best.