Overview
Civic environmentalism is a collective action to address critical environmental issues and implement solutions through democratic processes that will result in an improved and sustainable community.
Through six lessons, students identify, analyze, and explore specific details and events related to the origins of the environmental movement in the United States up to the current global climate crisis. Featuring important figures, movements, and music across several decades, the unit highlights how climate change affects people and communities differently, especially in regards to race and class.
Along with activities in the unit lessons and a series of assessments, students participate in paired and group research and writing. At the conclusion of the unit, students present a group project that demonstrates key components of civic environmentalism.
This unit made possible in part by Leaving a Positive Legacy, Inc. Positive Legacy is a 501c3 nonprofit that integrates music and service to benefit people and the planet.
Lessons
lesson:
Cleaning up the Plastic Beach (Middle School/High School Version)
How is plastic made, how does it affect our marine environments, and how can plastic waste be eliminated?
lesson:
The Science and Civics of the Flint Water Crisis
What is the Flint water crisis, and why did it occur?
lesson:
Palm Oil – The Environmental Impact
How have palm oil plantations impacted indigenous communities in Indonesia and the global climate as a whole, and how have activists and musicians spread awareness about the issue?
lesson:
The Water Walker: Indigenous Wisdom and Water Contamination
In what ways do indigenous views of water align with scientific views, and how do indigenous activists use artistic expression to advocate for water protection?
lesson:
Greta Thunberg, Music, and the Climate Crisis
How have musicians helped spread climate activist Greta Thunberg’s message?
lesson:
Indigenous Voices in Global Environmental Protection
How do Indigenous perspectives contribute to international environmental protection policies?
Trace It Back:
Billie Eilish
Trace It Back:
Big Freedia
