Future of Water in the Klamath Basin: A Town Hall Simulation

This town hall simulation gives elementary students the opportunity to learn an inquiry-based process that teaches the skills involved in civic participation. Students take on roles of different species that live in the same watershed: The Klamath River Basin. Many of these species are struggling and there is often not enough water to go around. Practicing perspective-taking helps students build empathy and recognize the complexity of issues. Students will take on a role, research the assigned stakeholder, and prepare a testimony from the point of view of their assigned role. For the culminating act of the town hall, students will testify about their experiences and needs to a panel of human decision-makers, who manage the water resources in the Klamath Basin. The “humans from the Oregon Water Resources Department” will listen to the species’ testimony and ask questions. The “humans” will also open up the floor and let different stakeholders ask questions of each other. Finally, students will all reflect on how their understanding of the situation grew and what solutions they recommend for the actual humans making decisions about water allocation.  This method of active learning teaches students about civil discourse, respecting each other, collaboration, and developing a deeper understanding of an issue. This simulation lesson plan provides all the components needed by teachers and students.  Objectives of a Town Hall Simulation: Students will:  Analyze and articulate various perspectives of different kinds of species that rely on the water resources of the Klamath Basin Develop and hone listening skills to better understand distinct points of view Identify ways to compromise and collaborate Practice public speaking and democratic participation 

Democracy requires public participation and compromise to solve problems as a community. By simulating a town hall meeting, students will be exposed to the multiple perspectives involved in a complex societal issue. They will identify evidence that best supports each role’s interest and will practice writing and delivering persuasive testimony to a policy workgroup. By researching and then taking on the perspective of those they might not necessarily agree with, students gain a deeper understanding and ability to critically think through one of the most controversial topics in the state. Finally, they will engage in deliberative and direct democracy as they seek a solution. 

This town hall simulation gives students the opportunity to take on different roles of people who have a stake in the debate over guns. By researching and then taking on the perspective of those they might not necessarily agree with, students gain a deeper understanding and ability to critically think through one of the most controversial topics in contemporary American culture.  This simulation lesson plan provides all the components needed by students, as well as resources and materials that help students build their understanding.