Curated OER
Selecting the Tap: Water Safety
Examine water as a scarce natural resource instead of taking it for granted. Middle schoolers identify the traits of potable water, and research local water sources to determine if they are impaired or not.
Curated OER
Is That Natural?
Young scholars examine how they use and waste natural resources. They participate in a class discussion about natural resources, in small groups complete a worksheet identifying ways students misuse natural resources, and create an...
Curated OER
Debating the Control of Scarce Resources
Students examine the issue of government versus private sector control of natural resources. They read an article, evaluate the need for international law governing resource allocation, and participate in a class debate.
Curated OER
History of Natural Resources in the U.S.
Students define conservation, exploitation and preservation, identify legislation related to conservation and environmental issues, and identify leaders and organizations that were key to the conservation and environmental movements.
Curated OER
Our Natural Resources
Learners investigate natural resources and man-made items. For this earth science lesson, students classify items from trash into man-made items or natural resources. Learners construct a flow chart to investigate the life cycle of a...
Curated OER
Conservation at a Crossroads Lesson 1: What Is Conservation and Why Does It Matter?
High schoolers explore the concept of conservation. In this conservation lesson, students read articles and primary documents about the Conservation Movement in the United States and compare the movement to today's environmental...
Curated OER
Renewable vs. Non-Renewable Resources
Fifth graders identify renewable vs. non-renewable resources and comprehend why conservation of resources is important. They are asked what they think the words natural and resource mean. Pupils then put the words together to define...
Curated OER
The Importance and Future Of Canadian Resources
Ninth graders examine Canadian natural resources. In this geography skills lesson plan, 9th graders research answers to questions regarding Canada's water, energy, forests, and wildlife. Students use their findings to create posters that...
Theodore Roosevelt Association
Roosevelt's Legacy: Conservation
The legacy of Theodore Roosevelt carries through modern American politics, economics, foreign policy, and society. But his proudest and most profound efforts were in the world of conservation, and in preserving the natural beauty of...
Curated OER
You Be The Census Taker
Students interpret information from an excerpt of the 1870 U.S. Census and compare that data to economic data they collect about local businesses in their own community. Students then evaluate how closely linked their community's economy...
Curated OER
Water Resources and the Role of the Independent Sector
Students identify the need to maintain and protect our natural resources. In this natural resource lesson, students study pictures of the effects of pollution on animals and water. Students brainstorm a list of ways water is an...
Curated OER
Don't Let the Earth Down
Although recycling is definitely beneficial, reducing our waste and conserving our natural resources should really be the focus of environmentalists. Encourage the future generation to create a public service announcement about a...
Curated OER
The More Things Change...
Students participate in a mock town hall meeting after researching issues relating to fishing rights. After reading The Lorax, they discuss the importance of conserving natural resources. In partners, they write a story of their own...
Curated OER
Gasoline Use Around the World
Students contribute their own personal gasoline consumption data with other schools. They share thoughts and opinions on fossil fuels, its effects and what they can do in an effort to conserve natural resources.
Society of Petroleum Engineers
Renewable and Nonrenewable Energy
Energize an environmental science unit on natural resources with this collection of instructional materials. From simple coloring sheets for primary grade children, to guiding questions for a high school research report, a wide variety...
Curated OER
Water, Glorious Water
Learners identify the various uses of water. For this water conservation lesson, students read the book, The Drop In My Drink: The Story of Water On Our Planet and write down their favorite uses of water. Learners illustrate how they can...
American Forest Foundation
Who Speaks for the Trees?
Help young conservationists appreciate the important role that trees play in ecosystems around the world with this collection of six engaging activities. From a shared reading and class discussion of Dr. Seuss' The Lorax, to in an depth...
Curated OER
Be a Watershed - Create a Living River
Students investigate water ways by conducting an experiment with classmates. For this natural resources lesson, students define a watershed and identify where large ones are located within the United States. Students utilize cups,...
Curated OER
Sustainability
Fifth graders investigate the concept of natural resources. They participate in a simulation project to see possible uses. They use the internet to study how Hacienda Verde is used as a model for others for sustainable coffee crops.
Curated OER
They're Tilling that Field Behind the Mall
Unfortunately, the article for which this resource was written is not available. You can, however, find another current document on agriculture and urban development for your class to read together, and then still follow the suggested...
Curated OER
A Tree Is More than a Street Name
Eighth graders discuss the role of trees as one of the most important natural resources. In groups, they examine how the forests nearby helped to shape their urban city. Using the internet, they research the use of the forest in early...
Curated OER
Interview the Elders
Students prepare a list of questions about the past and present in regards to dealing with waste and the natural resources. They conduct interviews with tribal Elders and record their statements.
Curated OER
Salmon Vs. Dams: the Dam Removal Debate on the Elwha River
Students role-play a meeting of the Elwha River council in which they present opposing views to council members on hydroelectric power and salmon fisheries resources. They brainstorm possible conflicts between various people in land-use...
Curated OER
Water Resources
Students study water resources that are important to the people of North American and Africa. They use satellite images and data to explore how human actions can degrade, improve, or maintain water resources. They analyze and interpret...