Lesson Plan: I Was Wondering About The Environment

Great Thinker's Challenge:

Investigate different ways that humans have used and manipulated resources from the natural world to meet their community’s needs. Develop a definition of what it means for something to be “natural” or “made by humans.” Create a mobile that illustrates some of the ways that humans affect and use a particular natural resource (plant or animal) within a specific habitat and/or community.

Learning Objectives:

• (Science) Analyze the effects of human activities on habitats and communities.

• (Science) Investigate the interdependence of plants and animals within specific habitats and communities.

• (Social Studies) Describe some ways in which people in different communities meet their needs by adapting to their location, climate, and the physical features of their region.

• (Social Studies) Explore the relationship between the natural environment, land use, and how different uses of land and resources affect the environment.

Materials/Preparation:

• Markers, pens, crayons

• Poster paper

• Old hangers or thin wooden dowels (about 30 cm long)

• Straws, craft sticks or small wooden dowels

• String, ribbons

• Images from magazines, catalogues, or online resources

Grade Range: 2-5

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