7EDS - Education for Sustainability (Module)

Aims of the Course:

In this introductory course ( a Module for one term) on Education for Sustainability for Year 7, students will explore the critical issue of climate change and its impact on our planet. They will learn about the importance of biodiversity in maintaining a healthy ecosystem, the role of soil in supporting plant life, the significance of trees in providing oxygen and habitat, the communication link between fungi and trees, the essential role of water in sustaining life, the process of photosynthesis in producing oxygen, and the composition of the atmosphere in regulating Earth's temperature. 

We will relate all learning back to an initial provocation - the reading of Dr Suess’ book ‘The Lorax’ and the whakatauki:

Ko au ko te taiao, ko te taiao ko au 
I am the environment and the environment is me.

Ahakoa he iti, he pounamu
Although small, it is precious

The students will view a number of short videos outlining the challenges we face in stopping climate change and restoring the planet’s diversity.  They will conduct various experiments to determine soil health, analyze how we are dealing with waste at school and home and will be involved in planting out native tree seedlings as part of the Trees for Survival programme.

By understanding these key concepts, students will develop a deeper appreciation for the interconnectedness of all living things (Te Taiao) and the importance of preserving our environment for future generations.

Assessment:

Assessment is based on in-class discussions, summaries and mini research investigations that come out of the in-class learning.

Subject and Career Pathways:

This course leads into year 8 Education for Sustainability and ties into the Year 7 Social Science curriculum.