Living Schoolyard Activity Guide
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Provided by: Green Schoolyards America|Published on: March 29, 2023
Lesson PlansScientist Reviewed
K-12
Scientist Reviewed This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
Synopsis
- This comprehensive activity guide contains over 100 activities that encourage the use of school grounds for place-based learning, artistic expression, imaginative play, and an appreciation for ecological stewardship.
- A table of contents outlines activities related to art, social and emotional well-being, schoolyard agriculture and food, place-based understanding, wildlife and habitat, watershed stewardship, energy and climate, thoughtful use of materials, and community engagement.
- There are multiple opportunities for hands-on learning and experiences in nature through these engaging activities.
Subjects: Social Studies, Biology, Earth and Space Sciences, English Language Arts
Authors: Green Schoolyards America
Region: North America, USA - West, USA - Midwest, United States, Global, Wisconsin, Michigan, Montana
Languages: English
Teaching Materials
Positives
- This resource contains a table of contents and index to quickly locate topics or related vocabulary.
- Each activity is succinct and well-organized, including appropriate age groups, directions, necessary materials, and contributions.
- It provides an opportunity for all children at school to have access to nature.
Additional Prerequisites
- Teachers should take time to read the introductory information, including "About this Guide" and "The Power and Potential of Green Schoolyards" for more comprehensive information on the topic before beginning.
- This resource is written by 122 organizations across the United States and additional background information about them is included.
- The Index starting on page 212 provides a quick way to find contributing organizations or activities listed by contributing organization, subject, grade level, topic, or activity type.
Differentiation
- Have older students read the introductory information on The Green Schoolyard Movement (on pages 7-9) as a reading comprehension activity, writing about or discussing the background and purpose of the movement.
- Consider having students submit stories about their outside adventures and celebrations using the directions and email address on page 21.
- Art teachers can refer to the background information and table of contents beginning on page 23 for activities related to drawing and painting or sculpture, textiles, and carpentry.
- Language arts classes can use the creative writing activities, beginning on page 36.
- There are art, music, and dance activities to provide enriching outdoor activities in a fun and creative way.
- Give students time to further research some of the contributing organizations, using the map as a reference.
Scientist Notes
Teaching Tips
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Resource Type and Format
About the Partner Provider
Green Schoolyards America
Green Schoolyards America partners with school districts and public agencies across the U.S. to establish large-scale living schoolyard programs that transform school grounds into ecologically-rich, park-like green spaces. Our goal is to improve children’s health, learning, and happiness while contributing to communities’ ecological and climate resilience.
We are working to change the paradigm for school ground design, use, and management so all children will have access to the natural world in the places they already visit on a daily basis. We center equity in our work and collaborate with communities that have the greatest need for educational, environmental, health, and open space improvements.
Scientist Reviewed
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Our review process ensures that every resource in our library reflects the current state of climate science.
Learn about our review process →
