Lesson summary
Students investigate a local biodiversity issue within their community. They use a range of local sources to find out what their community is most passionate about. As a result of their investigation students are empowered to undertake positive action in their local environment.
Learning intentions:
Students will...
- understand how local communities – including local governments – operate
- create criteria that identifies the most significant biodiversity issues
- discover what issues the local community seem to be most passionate about
- suggest reasons why some issues have opposing views within the community
- take action to make changes in the local community.
Lesson guides and printables
Lesson details
Curriculum mapping
Australian Curriculum content descriptions:
Year 9 English:
- Interpret, analyse and evaluate how different perspectives of issue, event, situation, individuals or groups are constructed to serve specific purposes in texts (ACELY1742)
Year 9 Science:
- The values and needs of contemporary society can influence the focus of scientific research (ACSHE228)
Year 9 Mathematics:
- Compare data displays using mean, median and range to describe and interpret numerical data sets in terms of location (centre) and spread (ACMSP283)
Year 10 English:
- Identify and analyse implicit or explicit values, beliefs and assumptions in texts and how these are influenced by purposes and likely audiences (ACELY1752)
Year 10 Science:
- The values and needs of contemporary society can influence the focus of scientific research (ACSHE230)
Year 10 Mathematics:
- Evaluate statistical reports in the media and other places by linking claims to displays, statistics and representative data (ACMSP253)
General capabilities: Critical and creative thinking, Ethical understanding.
Cross-curriculum priority:Â Sustainability OI.2., OI.5, OI.6.
Syllabus Outcomes: SC5-11PW, EN5-2A, EN5-8D.Â
Time required: 2 x 60 mins
Level of teacher scaffolding: Medium – Facilitate students sharing their ideas.
Resources required
- Internet, Excel, back issues of the local newspapers, writing material, white board or smartboard
- Student Worksheet – one copy per student OR computers/tablets to access the online worksheet
Additional info
Following this lesson is an ideal way for students to participate in Planet Ark’s Schools Tree Day – the largest nature-care event in Australian schools. You and your students will join thousands of amazing teachers in making a difference, fostering a child’s love of nature and creating positive environmental change. So, get growing! It only takes a minute to register for Schools Tree Day.
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