Traditional Ecological Knowledge and Climate Change

Provided by: The Kid Should See This |Published on: March 4, 2026

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Synopsis

This 11-minute video is an episode of Crash Course Native American History, where students will understand how traditional ecological knowledge is being used to fight climate change.
The video covers a wide range of topics, including the history of controlled burns, environmental justice, connecting the past with the present and potential future, and more.

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Subjects: Earth and Space Sciences, History

Authors: CrashCourse, The Kid Should See This

Region: United States

Languages: English

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Teaching Materials

Positives

The video's host uses humor in their approach that many students will enjoy.
The video contains an important message about big picture thinking that is vital for discussions about climate change.

Prerequisites

Teachers should note that there is a mention of suicide at about 5:00.
Students should have background knowledge on the history of colonialism, racism, and other unjust systems that Indigenous people have faced.
Some embedded links may be broken.

Differentiation & Implementation

The video briefly shows Robin Wall Kimmerer, an Indigenous botanist. Students may enjoy hearing her speak about how Indigenous knowledge can complement scientific research in this podcast episode.
After listening to the list of ways Indigenous communities are using TEK to fight climate change, students can select one initiative mentioned to research further and share with the class.
Teachers can go more in-depth with the topic of colonization, its impacts on Indigenous communities, and its ties to climate change with this history lesson.

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About the Partner Provider

The Kid Should See This

The Kid Should See This is a Webby award-winning collection of over 7,000 kid-friendly videos, curated for teachers and parents who want to share smarter, more meaningful media in the classroom and at home. Selections are grown-up-friendly, too. And thanks to TKSST members, it’s free and ad-free for everyone. Start conversations, spark questions, and inspire offline exploration for all ages.

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.

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Traditional Ecological Knowledge and Climate Change

Synopsis

Teaching Materials

About the Partner Provider

Scientist Reviewed

Related Teaching Resources