School of Walk
Videos
GradesK, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5Science, Health
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 →
Provided by Green Ninja
What it is
- This short, animated video from Green Ninja features a playful group of friends who are inspired to write a rap about how walking is better than driving after one of them is late to school because of traffic.
- Students will hear some of the many reasons why walking is better for the environment (and their health) than driving.
Teaching tips
Positives
- The characters are entertaining and the graphics are playful, so these videos hold students' attention well.
- Music can be a great way to connect with people, so the message in this video may be especially impactful for many students.
Prerequisites
- Some students may need background information on the environmental impacts of the transportation sector.
- The lyrics are fast-paced, so watching twice and giving students a purpose for listening ("listen to find out...") may help with comprehension.
Differentiation & Implementation
- Provide students with a T-chart and ask them to take notes on both the health and environmental impacts of walking rather than driving.
- Ask students to create posters or other advertisements encouraging people in their communities to reduce their carbon footprint by choosing to walk rather than drive more often.
- For students who are unable to walk to school, brainstorm other places they might be able to walk instead of driving.
- Language arts or music classes can put students in groups and have them write poems, rhymes, raps, or songs motivating others to reduce their carbon footprints.
- Discuss other low-carbon travel options that may be more feasible in communities that are less walkable.
- Since climate change can often be a heavy, emotional topic for students, consider using this video as a way to wrap up a lesson in a way that is lighter, yet still inspires action.
From the scientist review
This video centers around a group of friends, along with the green ninja, singing a song about walking as an alternative to driving. This video would make a great addition to a classroom discussing climate change and how walking to school is not only healthy for students but good for the environment.
Ready to use it?
Hosted on greenninja.org
Want this to fit your class?
Add your location for local examples, questions, and action ideas.
