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Provided by: The Nature Conservancy |Published on: January 23, 2024
Articles/Websites
9101112AP
Synopsis
This article explores the distribution of tree canopy throughout New York City, the importance of tree canopy in an urban forest, and local efforts to increase the amount of tree canopy within the city.
Students will learn that tree canopy is scarce in New York City's low-income neighborhoods, tree canopy can provide shade during the hot summer months, and community activism has led to legislation that will equitably increase tree canopy in NYC.
This article recognizes that communities of color tend to have less canopy than white neighborhoods.
There is a helpful illustration that displays the benefits of tree canopy.
Additional Prerequisites
Students can obtain detailed tree canopy data if they click the article's interactive map.
It may be helpful if students already understand environmental racism and the urban heat island effect.
Differentiation
This article can fit within a larger unit on the ecological importance of trees and trees' ability to fight climate change.
To assess prior knowledge, the teacher can ask the class questions about tree canopy before reading the article.
This article can enhance a classroom discussion on the connection between health outcomes and socioeconomic status.
This article can support a classroom discussion on the NYC government's effectiveness in combating climate change.
Scientist Notes
Teaching Tips
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Resource Type and Format
About the Partner Provider
The Nature Conservancy
The Nature Conservancy is a global environmental nonprofit working to create a world where people and nature can thrive. The Nature Conservancy has grown to become one of the most effective and wide-reaching environmental organizations in the world.
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