Does the Energy Sector in North Dakota Impact Global Economies?

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This inquiry explores some of the dynamic changes occurring in the energy sector in North Dakota through the investigation of the compelling question “does the energy sector in North Dakota impact global economies?” The importance of understanding energy development in this inquiry is twofold: (1) students should be able to understand some of the changes that influenced the state’s development of energy resources and (2) students will benefit from understanding how these economic activities influence market forces and their own career choices. While progressing through the inquiry, students will analyze the changes occurring in the energy sector and speculate future scenarios for the state and identify potential career paths and how to access them.

This inquiry is expected to take three class periods; however, teachers are encouraged to adapt the inquiry to meet the needs and interests of their students and the amount of time they have available.

Inquiry Design Model (IDM) Blueprint™
Compelling Question
Does the energy sector in North Dakota impact global economies?
Standards and Practices
ND.6-12.3.2 Identify the current economic activities in the state of North Dakota and evaluate their positive and negative impact.
Staging the Question
Make a list of significant changes and innovations in the energy sector that have influenced the North Dakota economy.
Supporting Question 1
Supporting Question 2
Supporting Question 3
How has the availability of coal influenced the North Dakota economy?
How has the availability of oil and natural gas influenced the North Dakota economy?
How has the availability of renewable energy affected the North Dakota economy?
Formative Performance Task
Formative Performance Task
Formative Performance Task
Create a timeline of coal development in North Dakota.
Create a timeline of oil and natural gas development in North Dakota.
Write a summary of how renewable energy sources available in North Dakota and how they have influenced the economy.
Featured Sources
Featured Sources
Featured Sources
  • Newspapers, journals, and periodicals
Summative Performance Task
Argument
How have trends in the energy sector influence the development of the modern North Dakota economy? How will environmental changes and new technologies continue to affect the development of renewable and non-renewable resources? Construct an argument that addresses the compelling question using specific claims and relevant evidence from historical sources while acknowledging competing views. Write a paper that supports your argument, or thesis, with evidence. Incorporating visual aids, present your argument to your class. You can use Power Point, Prezi, or similar slide deck service, but you can also use hands-on objects as visual aids.
Extension
What current and emerging career paths are associated with the energy sector? Invite an industry professional to speak to the class about career opportunities.
Taking Informed Action

Understand: Identify a new technology of your time that you think has historic importance. Outline the significance (social, political, and/or economic) of that technology. How will it change your life? Will it continue to be important in the future?

Assess: Determine the intended and unintended consequences of the innovation identified.

Act: Present your research to your school or community during a history fair.