Title: “The Great Debate: Forest Fires - Risks and Benefits”

Objective: To engage students in a digital activity that explores the risks and benefits of forest fires and how they affect Earth’s different spheres.

Materials: - Internet access - Computer or tablet - Google Slides or PowerPoint - Research articles on forest fires and their effects on Earth’s spheres - Debate guidelines and rubric

Instructions:

1. Divide the class into two groups - one group will argue for the risks of forest fires, and the other group will argue for the benefits of forest fires.

2. Assign each group a set of research articles to read and analyze. The articles should cover the effects of forest fires on Earth’s different spheres, including the atmosphere, hydrosphere, lithosphere, and biosphere.

3. Using Google Slides or PowerPoint, each group will create a presentation that outlines their arguments and evidence for either the risks or benefits of forest fires.

4. Once the presentations are complete, the two groups will engage in a debate. Each group will have a set amount of time to present their arguments, and then the opposing group will have a chance to rebut.

5. After the debate, the class will vote on which group presented the most compelling arguments.

6. As a class, discuss the different ways that forest fires affect Earth’s spheres and how they play a role in the ecosystem.

Assessment:

Students will be assessed on their ability to: - Analyze research articles on forest fires and their effects on Earth’s spheres - Create a persuasive presentation that outlines their arguments and evidence - Engage in a debate and rebuttal with the opposing group - Participate in a class discussion on the risks and benefits of forest fires and their effects on Earth’s spheres

Rubric: - Research and analysis of articles (20 points) - Presentation of arguments and evidence (30 points) - Debate and rebuttal (30 points) - Class participation and discussion (20 points)