Fracking

This unit looks at 'fracking', the extraction of shale gas by hydraulic fracturing, as an application of science and considers who has access to, and influence over, decision-making processes which determine what risks are acceptable, and who they affect. It focuses on the connections between the sciences, geography and politics.

In this unit pupils take part in and report on, a model Select Committee which is overseeing decisions made about fracking. Pupils research a range of perspectives looking at the environment, economics and human rights in order to take part in the model committee and prepare a media statement.

It is part of a series of units from 'Science Beyond the Boundaries' which can be used for interdisciplinary teaching about applications of science and is designed for use in sixth-form enrichment programmes. 

This unit has 5 main phases, lasting around 6 hours in total. Three phases take place in the classroom and the remainder can be completed either independently or as classwork. It contains 8 activities in total and those that require specialist resources are listed below along with teacher guidance and a presentation. The final activity enables pupils to discuss the effect of political activism and its place in society.