Should the U.S. Continue Fracking?

1. Set Focus
Frame the inquiry with this essential question: What factors should a nation’s leaders consider when making economic policies?

2. Read and Discuss
Have students read the debate and then answer the following questions:

• What is the issue being debated? How does it relate to current events? (The issue is whether the U.S. should continue fracking. The issue is timely because health concerns are being raised about the effects of fracking.)

• Evaluate why these two authors might be interested in and qualified to comment on this issue. (Alex Trembath is deputy director of The Breakthrough Institute, a think tank that researches technical solutions to societal problems. Karen Feridun is the founder of Berks Gas Truth, an organization dedicated to ending fracking.) 

• Analyze Trembath’s view. (Trembath argues in favor of fracking. He says that the rise of fracking has helped lower energy costs for Americans as well as costs for energy companies. He also says fracking helps make us energy independent and that it is a useful energy solution until low-carbon sources become more prevalent.)

• Analyze Feridun’s view. (Feridun argues against fracking. She says that thousands of studies link fracking to polluted air and water, earthquakes, and health concerns. She also says that every fracking well is eventually abandoned, creating huge costs for taxpayers. She says the transition to renewable energy is already happening and should not be blocked.)

4. Writing Prompt
In an essay, evaluate one of the debaters’ arguments. Assess whether the reasoning is valid and whether it’s supported with evidence. Point out biases or missing information.

5. Classroom Debate
Should the U.S. continue fracking?  Have students use the authors’ ideas, as well as their own, in a debate.

6. Vote
Go online to vote in Upfront’s poll—and see how students across the country voted.