This philosophical film features environmental, social, economic, and political commentary from thinkers and activists around the world.
It discusses topics such as environmental degradation, peace, justice, equality, identity, resource use, population growth, development, consumerism, and social systems.
Teaching Tips
Positives
There is an accompanying lesson plan called "Deconstructing Consumerism" available in English and Spanish.
Additional Prerequisites
Many topics and themes are explored in this film that you could explore with students, including overconsumption, advertising, poverty, colonialism, militarism, peace, poverty, justice, greed, sacrifice, and compromise.
Differentiation
This film is intriguing and thought-provoking. It is likely that most students will want to engage in a discussion after the film. The lesson plan features excellent guiding questions for the discussion.
This film can be screened in history, social studies, English, or religious studies classes.
Biology and science classes could include this video in lessons about population dynamics, ecosystems, and animal behavior.
Other resources related to these topics include this interactive data resource, this video, and this resource about extinction.
Scientist Notes
The resource underscores the impact of global transformation. It asks questions to find answers on the state of the modern world and actions needed to create a sustainable society. It is compelling and recommended for teaching.
Standards
Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)
LS2: Ecosystems: Interactions, Energy, and Dynamics
HS-LS2-7 Design, evaluate, and refine a solution for reducing the impacts of human activities on the environment and biodiversity.
College, Career, and Civic Life (C3) Standards
Dimension 2: Economics
D2.Eco.11.9-12 Use economic indicators to analyze the current and future state of the economy.
Common Core English Language Arts Standards (CCSS.ELA)
Speaking & Listening (K-12)
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.SL.9-10.5 Make strategic use of digital media (e.g., textual, graphical, audio, visual, and interactive elements) in presentations to enhance understanding of findings, reasoning, and evidence and to add interest.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.SL.11-12.5 Make strategic use of digital media (e.g., textual, graphical, audio, visual, and interactive elements) in presentations to enhance understanding of findings, reasoning, and evidence and to add interest.
