Original Activity

Display a physical map of Louisiana on an overhead projector. Give students their own personal copy of a physical map of Louisiana. Have the students use a blue crayon or colored pencil to trace the outline of the coast of Louisiana on their personal maps. The teacher should complete this task on the overhead map also. Ask students to brainstorm the importance of rivers, lakes, and the Louisiana coast to people of Louisiana. Explain that the Louisiana costal wetlands are at risk because of coastal erosion, and that the coast of Louisiana is retreating. Have students trace the coastline of Louisiana about 1/4 inch inside the border of Louisiana. Model this task using the overhead projector. Ask students to explain what they see is occurring to the coastline. Continue this until about one inch has been colored blue and modeled on the transparency for student understanding.

On the blackboard or overhead transparency list the following causes of coastal erosion: rise of sea level, tides, storms, hurricanes, and animals such as the nutria. Have students complete a graphic organizer or chart identifying the damage to the environment, economy, and quality of life of Louisiana. Then have students explain why it is important to preserve our environment, economy, and quality of life. Students can also use the software Inspiration© to create their graphic organizer.