Climate, SEL, and Media Literacy for Our Youngest Students
Provided by: Project Look Sharp|Published on: October 26, 2023|Last updated: September 26, 2026
Grades: K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5
Type: Lesson Plans
Subjects: Science, English Language Arts
Authors: Project Look Sharp
Location: Earth
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
Synopsis
- In this lesson, students will view the children's book, "To Change a Planet," discuss how the book makes them feel, and analyze the creators' purpose in producing this book.
- This resource includes a detailed lesson plan, printable and digital presentation materials, and plenty of ideas for differentiation.
- Students will learn about how books portray climate change and how messaging around our changing climate impacts individuals.
Teaching Materials
Positives
- This resource has everything needed for in-class implementation.
- Students in a wide variety of literacy lessons will find success in this lesson, as the emoji Mad Libs activity requires little reading or writing to reflect and share.
Additional Prerequisites
- To download print and media materials, teachers must make an easy-to-create, free account.
- Students should have an emerging understanding of our changing climate.
Differentiation
- This lesson would work equally well in a language arts or science classroom. Teachers can make cross-curricular connections in social health or SEL classes learning about climate change impacts or emotional literacy.
- If you own a copy (or have library access) of the text used in the lesson, consider using it for a reading piece in the days leading up to this lesson.
- After completing the Mad Libs activity, have students share their reflections and feelings.
- As an extension, have students bring home their reflections along with a discussion guide that helps families discuss the emotions associated with climate change.
- The "How to Use These Materials" PDF includes many ideas for additional differentiation.
Climate change impacts us physically and mentally, and it is important to address both realms. This resource uses a children's book that is easy for young learners to understand and accurately depicts the reality of climate change.
Teaching Tips
Standards
Resource Type and Format
Scientist Reviewed
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Our review process ensures that every resource in our library reflects the current state of climate science.
Learn about our review process →
