Some resources from federal government sites are currently unavailable; when possible, we’ve provided alternative non-government links to ensure continued data access.
This report depicts the development of the Chicago lakefront throughout history as well as the ways the legal system has protected the original values to remain "forever open, clear, and free."
Students will learn about the original legal protections put in place by learning about The Public Trust Doctrine and The Lakefront Protection Ordinance.
Shortcomings of the current policies and protections in place are analyzed, and solutions are provided throughout this report.
This resource does an excellent job of taking the reader through the process of developing the Chicago lakefront through both a historical and legal lens.
There are a plethora of photographs, maps, drawings, timelines, and miscellaneous pictorial references throughout this report, making it easier to compartmentalize and review all of the information presented.
Prerequisites
Students should be familiar with the role that urban development plays in climate change.
An understanding of the geographical layout of the Chicago lakefront is necessary prior to reading this report.
Knowledge of the history of the Chicago lakefront inhabitation and development is essential preceding this resource.
Differentiation & Implementation
To spark interest, have a discussion with students about the aesthetics of the Chicago lakefront to emphasize the vast amount of openness in such a crowded and bustling city.
Devise an outline that helps the students visualize the timeline of the development of the lakefront.
To ensure a more concrete understanding of climate justice prior to this report, this lesson can be used.
Due to the length of this report, students could each be assigned different sections to annotate and report back to the class in a whole class discussion.
After reading this report, students could be assigned one of the important legal cases mentioned to research and report back to the class.
To emphasize this report's connections to Indigenous people and climate justice, this video could be utilized in reflection or extension of this resource.
Scientist Notes
Teaching Tips
Standards
Resource Type and Format
Related Teaching Resources
All resources can be used for your educational purposes with proper attribution to the content provider.
