1. At least 5 sources should be consulted. NO wikis, dot coms, no Khan Academy, no encyclopedias or dictionaries, etc. or non-university level sources. Information should be published with the last 7 years (from 2013 -2020). You are encouraged to use the UMGC library in your search: https://libguides.umgc.edu/science.
2. Write a 900-1500 word paper, NOT counting abstract, references and title page. Unnecessary quotes will not earn credit. ALL topics: a 1/2 to 1 page Abstract, as well as a Title page and references in APA format are required. The paper should be well-organized, and include sections/ subsections. Proper grammar, spelling, punctuation, etc. and proper formatting is expected-and points will be deducted for substandard writing. You must write in your own words and paraphrase information from the selected information sources, addressing each of the questions for your chosen topic. Your paper should consist of less than 10% direct quotes.
TOPIC:
Fracking (hydraulic fracturing) and tar sands (oil sands). With society’s dependence on nonrenewable fossil fuels, the oil & gas industry is turning to hydraulic fracturing and tar (oil) sands to extract natural gas and oil. A friend asks you “What’s all this controversy in the news about fracking and tar sands?” Briefly explain to your friend how hydraulic fracturing and tar (oil) sands are used to obtain these fossil fuels. Then, in more detail, describe the environmental problems that may result from these processes and why they are controversial. Issues that should be addressed involves water, air, and soil pollution with special focus on global climate change, effects on human health, and effects on other species and natural ecosystems. Finally, give your opinions on possible solutions to these environmental problems, with your reasoning backed by information from reliable information sources.
