Our Changing Planet: Climate, SEL, and Media Literacy for Our Youngest Students

• In this lesson, students will view the children's book, "To Change a Planet," discuss how the book makes them feel, and analyze the creators' purpose in producing this book.
• This resource includes a detailed lesson plan, printable and digital presentation materials, and plenty of ideas for differentiation.
• Students will learn about how books portray climate change and how messaging around our changing climate impacts individuals. 

Positives

• This resource has everything needed for in-class implementation.
• Students in a wide variety of literacy lessons will find success in this lesson, as the emoji Mad Libs activity requires little reading or writing to reflect and share.
  

Additional Prerequisites

• To download print and media materials, teachers must make an easy-to-create, free account.
• Students should have an emerging understanding of our changing climate.

Differentiation

• This lesson would work equally well in a language arts or science classroom. Teachers can make cross-curricular connections in social health or SEL classes learning about climate change impacts or emotional literacy.
• If you own a copy (or have library access) of the text used in the lesson, consider using it for a reading piece in the days leading up to this lesson.
• After completing the Mad Libs activity, have students share their reflections and feelings.
• As an extension, have students bring home their reflections along with a discussion guide that helps families discuss the emotions associated with climate change.
• The "How to Use These Materials" PDF includes many ideas for additional differentiation.