Action:

-Read the "questions you might want to consider" above. Brainstorm additional questions. After you do some research, you will probably come up with even more questions.

-Divide the responsibility for finding answers and doing research between group members

-Use the links below to begin your research. Additional information can be obtained by conducting Internet searches, using print materials (books or magazines) and interviewing local experts.

-Help each other clarify confusing information. Make sure that each person in the group understands all the information

-Present your findings to the class orally. All coaches must participate.

-Your teacher will "jigsaw" your class to create teams of three with one physician, one coach, and one investigative reporter on each team. The goal of these teams will be to produce products (newsletters, skits, web pages, posters, etc.) to educate and influence athletes, coaches, and parents. Click here to find out more about the products.

Questions you might want to consider:

-What steps must coaches take to prevent heatstroke happening to their athletes? Think about what might need to be done during off-season conditioning, during practice, and during games.

-What do measures do professional and college teams have in place to prevent heat stroke?'

-How can coaches get their athletes to admit when they feel too ill to continue?

-What do local coaches do to prevent heat stroke? Is it enough?

-What should be changed (procedures, rules, equipment, supervision, etc.) about what local coaches do?

Links:
National Federation of State High School Associations: Heat Stress and Athletic Participation

How to do a fluid balance test

Heat Acclimatization

SportsMed: Advice for Coaches

NCAA Guidelines for the Prevention of Heat Illness

Water: The Athlete's Most Important Nutrient

SportsInjury.com article on hyperthermia

Preventing Heat Stroke By Ronnie Barnes, Giants Head Trainer/President, Professional Football Athletic Trainers Society

Other links are on the resources page

Other Resources:
Don't overlook the following sources of information:

• Library books
  
• Local experts (Interview a doctor in your areas who treats athletes)