Students analyze how language reflects our relationship with the natural world and impacts climate change by analyzing the denotation and connotation of the author’s word choices. Students compare Indigenous writers' kinship with nature to more anthropocentric views, then apply these insights in their own nature writing.

Inquire: Students react to words related to climate change and discuss what led to their reactions.

Investigate: Students view examples of connotation, identify the connotation of words in passages, and learn about anthropocentric and kinship relationships to the natural world.

Inspire: Students brainstorm words, complete an outdoor writing exercise, and collectively create a word wall that encourages a healing relationship with nature.