Mother Nature is a great
teacher, and getting kids outdoors and engaged is one of the
most beneficial things we as educators can do for them both physically and
psychologically.
As children spend
increasing amount of time indoors, receive more screen time, and consume more
entertainment media than ever, the importance of spending time outdoors and
engaging with nature grows ever more apparent. The traditional classroom
environment, and style of teaching, is not very conducive to engaging the
attention of many students for prolonged periods of time, and even worse still,
can result in a massive disconnect between them and the natural world, as they
are rarely, if every immersed in it in an average school day, nor does the
current curriculum prioritize it being taught about and experienced.
Considering the current
condition of the planet from the perspective ecological health and biodiversity
threats – we are living in unprecedented times, and it will be the burden of
the young generations of today, and those to come, to address current and
future issues, such as climate warming, mass pollution of land, water, air, as
well as catastrophic biodiversity losses.
Without exposure, and a
sound understanding of the immeasurable importance of planetary health, the
ways in which it supports all life on earth; as well as the interconnectedness
of all living beings and the duty we have as visitors to
maintain this intricate system that is so ancient and powerful - how
can we expect change, improvement, and innovation?
So what can teachers do
to impart this valuable knowledge, appreciation, and sense of wonder onto their
students?
1. Hold lessons outdoors, in the school field or
a local green space; create lessons that involve the use of nature and the
surrounding environment where possible.
2. Prioritize class trips/workshops - such as
trips to provincial parks, outdoor activities like cross country skiing,
hiking, etc.
3. Have a class pet or have students create a
contained insect habitat which they are responsible for caring for, and tracking
progress, as well as projects associated with said pet or insect so that
students can learn about their native habitat and what they require to thrive.
4. Play documentaries and video clips about various
topics related to the natural environment and environmental health, as these
are often very engaging relative to reading and writing for some students, and
can spark their interest very effectively as the visuals are key.
Brought to you by:
Isabella@NU
Reading Comprehension Stories
