Grade 6 Curriculum Connections
Science and technology - Understanding life systems - Biodiversity
- assess human impacts on biodiversity, and identify ways of preserving biodiversity
- Connect to STEM and Big Ideas (Fairness & Equity, Systems, Community, Diversity, Interdependence, Ability to Make a Difference, Equilibrium)
Program Description
This activity can be done on the first or last day in a smaller program block as it takes place around the main campus. It can even be integrated into a Forest Hike without the orienteering component. Students learn a quick lesson on the basics of orienteering, the features of a map and how to use a map to get from point to point. Using those skills students travel in small groups in search of signs containing information that describes the impact of humans on the environment. There are signs concerning air, water, soil, garbage, toxic waste, the forest, fuel sources, compost and wetlands.
Students read information on a sign and return each time to the flagpole area to share their knowledge with staff about what they've learned. They are then asked questions that challenge their thinking about these areas and what difference they can make.
Success Criteria/Learning Goals
- Students will successfully use a map to find their way from point to point.
- Students will describe three examples of human impact on the environment.
- Students will explain three ways that their family can reduce their impact.
Pre-Trip Activity
Students can evaluate their ecological footprint and discover how much land it takes to support their lifestyle.
Next Step Environmental Action
Join the Classroom Energy Diet Challenge. Students can compare their yearly footprint to a person of their age in a developing country. Students focus on ways in which they can change their impact on the earth and small ways they can reduce their resource consumption and make a difference. Perhaps your class can start a campaign in your school as part of your Eco Schools participation.
Resources
There is a new phone app called Litterati that allows you to track, measure and map your impact as you pick up litter around your schoolyard or community. This Get Outside lesson called "How do we go beyond a litter pick-up" gives you all the details.
For more resources please see Learning Resources on our website under Ecoliteracy and People and Environments.
This activity can be done in any season and almost any weather