This resource contains multiple lesson plans for students in upper elementary school, middle school, and high school. Using a bicycle as a metaphor to help students think about systems, the lessons cover an introduction to systems to deeper analysis.
Recommended grades: Adjustable for grades 3+
Time: Varies
Participants learn and use the C.R.I.T.I.C. technique to enable them to bring critical thinking skills to any information they receive, whether from industry, non-profits, government or media.
Recommended grades: Recommended for grades 6 and up.
Time: 30-45 minutes
A lesson on the true cost of goods The true price activity helps students explore the positive and negative impacts of our product choices on themselves, other people, animals, and the earth.
Grades: Recommended for grades 4 and up
Time:(2) 45-minute class sessions
Students assess examples of media (catalogs, magazines, books, etc.) to consider who is (and isn’t) represented, explore the impact of lack of diversity in media, and realize their own rich experiences with diversity.
Recommended for grades: 4 and up
Time: 45-60 minutes
Participants “become” a being or part of nature and share the lives, concerns, hopes, and wisdom of their being in a Council.
Grades: Recommended for grades 4 and up
Time: 1-2 hours
This activity encourages participants to explore how sample ingredients in our food might affect the environment, people, and animals, and what alternatives might exist that could do more good and less harm.
Recommended grades: 6 and up
Time: 45 minutes to several days
Students learn to be ad-savvy by exploring the pervasiveness of ads in their lives and by analyzing what ads are trying to sell…and trying to hide.
Recommended grades: 4 and up
Time: 45-60 minutes
This activity helps students think about how we are all connected and how our actions impact others and the environment.
Recommended grades: 6 and up
Time: Three to four 45-60 minute class sessions
Lesson for teaching about racism: students explore examples of racism, consider perspectives, and discuss ways to eradicate racism in our society.
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Students reflect on an image that captures the natural beauty and the intrinsic value that nature has in order to consider their own roles in protecting nature and to help nurture their sense of wonder.
Grades: 6 and up
Time: 45 minutes
