Fictional example

Harbor Marsh WebQuest

Follow three fictional sources, answer the evidence checks, and prepare a recommendation for the town council.

Step 1 · The task

Recommend one shoreline plan

Your role: You are advising the fictional town of Northhaven. Choose a living shoreline, a raised seawall, or a mixed plan. Support your choice with details from at least two sources below.

Your final response should name the plan, give two source-based reasons, acknowledge one tradeoff, and propose one next action.

Step 2 · Read the source set

Open each evidence card

Source A · Field note

Marsh edge

A fictional survey records reeds along 60% of the east bank and erosion near the boat ramp.

The note proposes testing native plantings away from the ramp while keeping a clear launch path.

Source B · Budget note

Two phases

A fictional budget can fund one pilot this year and a second construction phase next year.

The note does not rank the plans. It asks the council to choose a pilot with a measurable checkpoint.

Source C · Resident note

Access concern

A fictional meeting summary says residents want erosion control and continued access to the boat ramp.

The summary reports competing priorities. It is not a vote or proof that one plan will work.

Step 3 · Check the evidence

Answer before you draft

1. Which source mentions a phased budget?
2. Which detail must every plan protect?

Choose one answer for each question.

Step 4 · Final task

Write a council recommendation

The page checks structure only. A teacher still reviews the evidence and reasoning.

Before you submit

Four-part rubric

Decision: Names one shoreline plan.
Evidence: Uses details from at least two labeled sources.
Reasoning: Explains how the details support the choice.
Tradeoff and action: Names a limit and a practical next step.