Illustrations by Ali Mac

STANDARDS

Common Core: RH.6-8.1, RH.6-8.4, RH.6-8.7, WHST.6-8.4, RI.6-8.1, RI.6-8.4, RI.6-8.7, W.6-8.4, SL.6-8.1

NCSS: People, Places, and Environments • Science, Technology, and Society • Civic Ideals and Practices

POWER DOWN: Much of the electricity in our homes is generated by coal, oil, and gas. Use less by switching to energy-efficient light bulbs and turning lights off when you leave a room. 

REDUCE FOOD WASTE: When food rots in a landfill, it releases methane, a powerful greenhouse gas. So encourage your family to eat everything in the fridge—and compost the leftovers.

TRAVEL THOUGHTFULLY: Whenever possible, walk, bike, or take public transportation instead of driving to help curb emissions and air pollution. Carpooling is another great option!

SHOP SMART: Aim to buy products from businesses that are committed to protecting the environment. You can also post on social media to encourage companies to use resources responsibly.

EAT YOUR VEGGIES: Producing meat and dairy generally requires more water and other resources than plant-based foods. So try to eat less meat and dairy and more fruits and vegetables. 

SPEAK UP: Urge your friends and family to join you in taking action against climate change. Use social media to call on local, state, and national leaders to act now.

REUSE IT: Everything we buy requires energy to make. So try to shop secondhand, opt for reusable versus single-use items (such as water bottles), and recycle what you no longer need.

SKILL SPOTLIGHT: Civic Engagement

Choose one of these ideas or come up with your own way to support the environment in your community. Make a list of steps you’ll take to achieve that goal. Then decide how and when you’ll measure your progress.

Skills Sheets (1)
Lesson Plan (1)
Text-to-Speech