Preparation and Procedure

Procedure

1. Have students form groups of three. In case not all groups have three, have students create an “imaginary” partner. Use the worksheet titled “Island Survival Story” as a transparency or distribute one per group.
   
   Read the following scenario to the class:
   You will be traveling to the island of Etsawon (backward spelling of no waste). You will spend two weeks on this uninhabited island with two friends. The island is mostly wooded with a small sandy beach on the south side. There is no food, but fresh water and wood are plentiful. The temperature at this time of year is mild, but occasionally you may experience some cool nights. Rain is always a possibility. There are no man-made shelters, except for an out-house.
   
   You will be taken to the island by boat. Your group will be allowed to bring a maximum of 90 lbs. of supplies. A smaller boat will take you home on the return trip. Your group will be able to return with only 45 lbs. of supplies and waste materials. You must leave the island as you found it. Do not leave any of your supplies, belongings or trash behind — and not buried in a hole, either. Items such as leaves, vegetable and fruit wastes, and coffee grounds may be composted. Some items may be burned, but only if stated on the item list.
   
   Your group must work together to prioritize your personal needs, desires, essentials, etc. Together, compose a list of what each individual will bring for himself or herself and the group. Remember — you must stay within the group weight limit. Good luck!
   
   Teacher’s Note: Remind students that they need to plan for 42 breakfasts, lunches and dinners.
   
   
2. On the Graphic Organizer (26KB PDF), have students brainstorm a list of items they might need for the trip and then prioritize the list. Students must have items in each of the following categories:
    
   • Food (minimum three meals per day)
   • Shelter
   • Clothing (minimum four pounds per person)
   • Health
   • Recreation and entertainment
   • Grooming
   • In addition, each group must have a first aid kit and manual, and a portable light source.
      
3. Assign each group to work on and turn in the Graphic Organizer, Calendar and Meal Planner, Island Survival List with calculations, and Check Sheet. Each group must be prepared to present their lists and calculations, and to defend their choices. Students may pose questions about the rules that are not addressed. Use your best judgment in resolving these questions. Encourage students to verify listed weights, as they change over time or by brand, and to bring other items in (especially their favorite foods) to measure for themselves and use on their list.

Using the Possible Assessment Sheet

1. Use the Possible Assessment sheet to help provide feedback on each group’s work. You may want to pass out this sheet to students from different groups so they may score and comment on other groups’ survival plans or you may want to be involved in the assessment. Students may provide rationale as to why they did or did not bring something on their list. Modify for individual class situations; for example, add points for measuring and bringing their own items.
   
2. After students make their decisions, have each group answer the following questions together. Then, as a class, discuss how the various groups answered these questions or have students answer these questions as a self-analysis essay or report.

Project Summary

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