This group of lessons is about the importance of water, how it can become polluted, and how humans can protect it.
Students will read a picture book about protecting water from pollution, complete an outdoor activity encouraging them to appreciate nature, and create watercolor paintings reflecting aspects of their lives.
Teaching Tips
Positives
This resource uses various instructional methods to cultivate environmental stewardship in students.
Students will think critically about the natural world they inhabit.
Additional Prerequisites
This resource centers around the story by Carole Lindstrom. Teachers can find more information on this program here and fill out this form to get the story and accompanying materials for these lessons.
It will take multiple class periods to complete the lessons in this resource.
There is an optional lesson that instructors can employ for extension purposes.
Differentiation
This resource can fit within a larger unit about protecting habitats, wildlife, and human health.
Students can consider how to make their community more aware of environmental issues.
After completing their art pieces, students can host an art show to inform and inspire parents and community members.
Students can research the purpose of oil pipelines and alternative forms of energy.
This resource can enhance a classroom discussion where students consider the role of culture in one's interactions with and opinions about the environment.
Scientist Notes
This resource does not have any specific science to review but The Water Protectors are a vital part of the climate justice movement. This is recommended for teaching.
Standards
Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)
ESS3.A: Natural Resources
4-ESS3-A. Energy and fuels that humans use are derived from natural sources, and their use affects the environment in multiple ways. Some resources are renewable over time, and others are not. (4-ESS3-1)
ESS3: Earth and Human Activity
K-ESS3-3 Communicate solutions that will reduce the impact of humans on the land, water, air, and/or other living things in the local environment.
4-ESS3-1 Obtain and combine information to describe that energy and fuels are derived from natural resources and that their uses affect the environment.
Common Core English Language Arts Standards (CCSS.ELA)
Reading: Literature (K-12)
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.K.10 Actively engage in group reading activities with purpose and understanding.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.1.3 Describe characters, settings, and major events in a story, using key details.
National Core Arts Standards
Visual Arts: Standard 1 - Generate and conceptualize artistic ideas and work.
VA:Cr1.2.2a Make art or design with various materials and tools to explore personal interests, questions, and curiosity.
VA:Cr1.2.4a Collaboratively set goals and create artwork that is meaningful and has purpose to the makers.
