Three Gorges Dam - Homework Assignment

We have discussed in class the Three Gorges Dam in China. We talked about why they built the dam, how large a project it has been, and some of the ramifications (look it up) of its construction. We looked at the dam from above using Google Earth. You read a great article from CNN.com. It's been a while since I gave you the CNN article, so you may want to re-read it. Click here to find the article online - you will find even more info if you follow the link.

We also watched a short, but informative video clip today (or at least most of that clip) that highlighted the lives of those that are being impacted by the dam. You can watch the video again here. Also, here is the link to the New York Times special section that includes this video. You will find some other great resources to help you better understand this topic at this site (click here).





OK, your assignment is to write a five paragraph essay discussing the Three Gorges Dam. Why was the decision made to build the dam, and who made the decision? What have been the ramifications of the project for those living in that part of China? Who is supporting the project, and who is opposing it? Has anyone suggested any solutions to the problem? Can you offer any suggestion? These are all questions to think about. Your assignment is not to write a list of answers to these questions. These questions are intended to help you begin thinking about what you need/want to write about.



Here are the assignment/writing requirements:

• Five paragraphs - well written.
• Pay close attention to spelling and grammer.
• Handwritten work will not be accepted - type your essay.
• Use 11 or 12 point of any professional looking font (Times New Roman, etc).
• Essay should be double-spaced.
• I encourage you to email your essay to me as an attachment. Do not write your essay as an email.

Your essay is due on Tuesday, February 5, 2008.