The story of Yellowstone can highlight questions of responsibility, ownership, resources and environmental exploitation. Pupils might discuss: can land be owned? What would happen if no one could own land or if everyone owned it equally? If a place is extraordinary, should everyone be allowed to see it? Should we ruin a place of beauty if it has gold or oil beneath it?

Role-play an inquiry scene where developers wish to turn the Grand Prismatic Spring into a geothermal energy resource. “Witnesses” might include an environmentalist, a developer, an energy specialist, a Yellowstone community representative, a government representative, and a scientist. Arguments should be prepared in advance and people left to decide the outcome.