Mathematics

Use environmental data and themes to help your students apply mathematics to real-world problems. Assign environmentally-themed math problems, analyze data such as population figures, land use statistics, and pollutant levels, use data to draw inferences about changes in population and natural resource consumption, and have students explain the impacts of their analysis. Use the search function to the right to explore other ways to use environmental data in your classroom.

Koshland Science Museum Global Warming Webquest

Using this Internet-based webquest activity, students will learn about climate change, energy use and global warming, including how scientists, business leaders and policy makers study and respond to climate change and how society and the environment will be impacted by global warming.

Energy Audit Toolkit

This toolkit created by Cool School Challenge is an in depth strategy to have students perform energy audits in schools in order to recommend changes in behaviors and practices to reduce energy consumption. This document includes suggestions on how to approach administration and community partners to get them involved. Use it to get ideas of how to pursue similar projects in your school. To see how this project looks in actions, visit coolschoolchallenge.org.

Investigating a Local Watershed

This Unit Outline allows students to explore a local watershed, where they learn basic ecological concepts, conduct scientific inquiries, understand the interdependence between science, technology, and mathematics in an urban community, develop competency in the use of technology equipment, and develop cooperative working relations. By using local resources, students will gain a better understanding and sense of ownership about the local environment and community. The Unit is designed for use in Life Science courses, but could link with other disciplines.

Effects of Urban Growth

In the last decade, many areas in the Sunbelt region of the United States have experienced tremendous population growth. The growth can be a result of enticing media campaigns or lifestyle and employment opportunities that a city offers. Moving to these "boom towns" can be very beneficial for families. However, there are also drawbacks to rapid population increases within communities. This lesson focuses on the pros and cons of rapid growth and how community changes impact the residents and environments of these growing areas.

Genetically Modified Foods: From the Lab to the Dinner Table

This lesson is designed to expose students to the various issues surrounding GMO foods and to help them understand the complexity of the issues surrounding the biotechnology movement. Students can read two PBS NewsHour pieces, both of which involve a variety of perspectives surrounding the GMO issue. Additionally, students will try to identify GMO foods that they have consumed and discuss the "to label or not to label" debate.

Digital Wish Grants

Are you a teacher with an amazing lesson plan? Does your school lack the technology it needs to best teach and inspire your students? Then apply for the Digital Wish Grants! Submit your awesome lesson plan and get the chance to win over 50 technology grants.

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