Summary
The Great Salt Lake in Utah is the largest body of water in the western hemisphere without an outlet to the sea. Its levels fluctuate naturally, but scientists say the record-low water levels the lake has seen in recent years are worrying. A megadrought means less precipitation, and a growing population is taking more water before the lake can refill. For a transcript of the story, click here . You may also choose another story from the newscast by clicking the link below and answering the following questions:
Five Facts
- Who are some of the individuals or groups of people mentioned in the story?
- What is the main idea?
- Where and When does the story take place?
- Why did the event(s) covered in the story take place?
- How do you think the NewsHour’s producers decided to produce a story about this topic?
Focus Questions
See, Think, Wonder : What did you notice? What did the story make you think? What story would you want to find out more about? Where would you go to learn more? Media literacy : What additional questions do you have about the story?For More
What students can do : Take a look at an environmental issue in the news where you live or one you have heard about from a teacher, classmate or family member. How long has the issue been a problem in your community? Ask a few more people their thoughts and whether or not local or state leaders have proposed any solutions. You may want to take a look at Classroom's recent piece on the collapse of salmon in Alaska and its effects on Alaska Native culture below.
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