Section 2 - Examples of Materials
The overall theme of this unit is water, but it also provides an excellent learning opportunity for participants to develop basic knowledge and skills that can be applied in various aspects of workers' lives. The sub-topics within the Water Watch unit include geography, levels of government and taxation as well as transfer payments, the water distribution system, utility bills, privatization, cutbacks in public services, and some effects of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).
In addition to general knowledge, the activities develop a wide range of basic skills in oral communication, reading, writing, numeracy and critical thinking. Most important, these skills are developed not in isolation but in a context that is meaningful, relevant and practical. Participants can apply the knowledge and skills acquired from this unit in the home, in the community, as citizens and as trade unionists.
This unit may be used whole or in part, according to the characteristics of the specific group. Obviously, skill level is an important consideration, as well as time available and interest. Parts 1 through 5 form the essence of the unit - they can be adapted for use with most groups. For participants at a more basic skill level, some of the small group activities can be carried out in the large group with the instructor facilitating. As well, some of the readings can be re- written in a more basic form.
Part 6 introduces international water issues. It consists of Jig Saw activities. The class is to be divided into three groups and each group is given a different reading with associated tasks to carry out independently. At the end, each group presents what they have learned to the rest of the class so that all participants become familiar with the contents of all three readings. If the jig saw approach is too challenging for the group, or if there are not enough participants to divide the class into three groups, then the instructor can present the activities one at a time to the whole class. If necessary, more difficult activities may be simplified or omitted altogether. If activities are omitted, however, it is crucial to note key vocabulary and concepts that may be required if participants are to understand the content of subsequent activities.
The Water watch unit can be used to provide a coherent thread that runs through a series of sessions in a workplace literacy program. This "thread" connects various aspects of participants' lives and experience. It can provide a sense of continuity and an opportunity for participants to grow in confidence as they experience their knowledge and skills building with each activity. Yet, the Water Watch unit should not be the only theme the group deals with during an extended period. Parts of the unit may be used at specific intervals, say every week or every few weeks. The unit should be used in combination with materials and activities that grow out of other issues and needs that participants bring to the program.