This curriculum guide is divided into five lessons, each containing several activities that reflect the natural path of inquiry that third or fourth grade students might take in considering the water that arrives in their bathroom sinks each morning. Starting from the familiar faucet, the students are encouraged to reflect on their own habits and…

This anthology collects stories from various classrooms and collaborations supported by the Orion Society. Orion's Stories in the Land fellowships are 1-year teacher stipends that promote effective place-based education: interdisciplinary studies of the local natural and cultural history using extensive field experiences and diverse "human…

The current educational emphasis on the "global community" misses the most immediate and concrete area where students can make a difference: the locality. Without negating the importance of having a sense of responsibility toward the global community, a pedagogy of place argues that children cannot comprehend, much less feel a commitment…

Biogeography examines questions of organism inventory and pattern, organisms' interactions with the environment, and the processes that create and change inventory, pattern, and interactions. This learning module uses time series maps and simple simulation models to illustrate how human actions alter biological productivity patterns at local and…

Calls for teacher education workshops to update inservice teachers in response to national/international energy situation. Lists major topics presented and/or discussed, treatment, and rationale for treatment. Discusses sources of energy curriculum/resource materials and provides results of a follow-up survey of teachers attending workshops.…

Reports results of the Energyport Project, which involved sixth graders of all performance levels in energy study. The project was designed to demonstrate the relationship between energy sources and their economic impact on the community and increase student awareness of the effects of different energy sources on the environment. (CS)

A curriculum developed by the University of California for American Indian natural resource workers blends traditional knowledge of ecology and management with Euro-American scientific principles. The trophic pyramid provides an example for teaching the underlying principles of natural resource management, including reciprocity and interdependence…

Describes a series of learning activities that can be done at home using everyday household materials. The activities are designed to illustrate components of the Five Fundamental Themes of geography education to students in grades K-5. They all require organizing, analyzing, and interpreting geographic information. (MJP)

Defines global education as learning about those problems and issues that cut across national boundaries and the interconnectedness of systems--ecological, economic, cultural, political, and technological. Briefly reviews some of the issues and approaches of global education. Includes a list of 11 suggestions for creating global awareness in…

Outlines student involvement with a conservation project that aims to develop a Regionally Important Geological/Geomorphological Site network (RIGS) at a county level in the United Kingdom. Emphasis is placed on identifying, describing, evaluating, and documenting land forms of educational, research, historical, and/or aesthetic value. (MJP)

Discusses problems in putting education and sustainability together. Considers themes of planetary health and interconnectedness as an argument for redesigning core curricula to teach students to cope with future problems and live in harmony with their surroundings. Describes problems with the current education system, social values, and industry…

A study-abroad exchange program for American Indian students at Haskell Indian Nations University (Kansas) and indigenous Altaian students at a Siberian university studied water quality issues common to both countries. Connectedness with the global Indigenous community was enhanced by comparing traditional knowledge. Mentoring and traveling as a…

Argues that geography teachers should help students explore ethical issues in geography, such as questioning where exploitation ends and conservation begins. Outlines guidelines for ethics, considers pedgogical implications, and offers strategies for motivating students and making geography relevant. (DB)

Described is the Issue Analysis Technique designed to educate students about the various beliefs and values held by the people on various sides of a controversial science-related social issue. The background of the technique, procedures, and curricular goals are discussed. An example is provided. (CW)

Addresses the issue of spiritual needs in the face of a materialistic, technological, self-aggrandizing culture in a speech to the American Academy of Religion. Urges religious educators to point society in the direction of environmental awareness, reintegrating spirituality with rationality. Sees the vital role religion plays in helping students…