This project aims to engage students in the critical examination of how human activities intersect with ecosystem health, fostering a deeper understanding of sustainability. Through hands-on design and simulation exercises, students will explore the balance between urban development and ecological preservation, emphasizing the importance of renewable resources and green infrastructure. By role-playing various stakeholders and reflecting on diverse perspectives, students will develop critical thinking skills and propose actionable solutions for sustainable living, preparing them to contribute thoughtfully to their communities and the global environment.
Learning goals
Students will develop a comprehensive understanding of ecosystems, their stability, and the impact of human activities on biodiversity. They will enhance their critical thinking skills by evaluating real-world examples and designing solutions for sustainable urban development. Through self-directed learning, students will reflect on their role in environmental stewardship and engage in collaborative problem-solving to address complex community challenges. Additionally, students will cultivate an academic mindset, establishing a sense of identity and belonging while actively contributing to discussions on balancing human needs with ecosystem health.
Standards
[Next Generation Science Standards] HS-LS2-6 - Evaluate the claims, evidence, and reasoning that the complex interactions in ecosystems maintain relatively consistent numbers and types of organisms in stable conditions, but changing conditions may result in a new ecosystem.
[Next Generation Science Standards] HS-ESS3-3 - Create a computational simulation to illustrate the relationships among management of natural resources, the sustainability of human populations, and biodiversity.
[Next Generation Science Standards] HS-LS2-7 - Design, evaluate, and refine a solution for reducing the impacts of human activities on the environment and biodiversity.
Competencies
Self Directed Learning - Students use teacher and peer feedback and self-reflection to monitor and direct their own learning while building self knowledge both in and out of the classroom.
Academic Mindset - Students establish a sense of place, identity, and belonging to increase self-efficacy while engaging in critical reflection and action.
Critical Thinking & Problem Solving - Students consider a variety of innovative approaches to address and understand complex questions that are authentic and important to their communities.
Products
Students will collaboratively design and construct a model of a green city block, featuring renewable energy sources, sustainable transportation options, and green spaces. This model will serve as a tangible representation of how urban areas can integrate human development with ecological preservation. Throughout the project, students will document their design process and decision-making in a digital portfolio, highlighting the innovative solutions they've proposed for balancing human needs with ecosystem health. At the conclusion, students will present their models and portfolios during a 'Gallery Walk,' showcasing their understanding and creativity in addressing complex environmental challenges.
Launch
To kick off the learning experience, students will participate in a 'Sustainability Simulation' where they assume roles such as farmers, conservationists, and city planners. In this interactive activity, they will collaboratively debate and create a balanced plan for a fictional community that addresses both human needs and ecosystem health. This simulation will encourage students to consider diverse perspectives and understand the complexities involved in sustainable development, setting the stage for deeper exploration throughout the project.
Exhibition
At the conclusion of the project, students will host a "Green City Expo" where they showcase their model city blocks to the school community and invited guests. Each student group will present their design process, highlighting how their models incorporate renewable energy, sustainable transportation, and green spaces. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with students, ask questions, and provide feedback. This event will serve as a platform for students to articulate their understanding of balancing human needs with ecosystem health and to celebrate their creative solutions.
