In the grade six science curriculum, students are required to learn about a variety of trees native to Alberta. This posed an opportunity to challenge students to apply environmentally based critical thinking skills and introduce them to real world scenarios regarding human infrastructure development and environmental stewardship.
Students were asked an essential inquiry based question:
‘Can humans live in harmony with the natural environment without causing permanent harm?’
Students were then introduced to a scenario involving the development of a ski resort in a mountain community. Split into table groups, students were asked to represent various stakeholders including a local First Nations reserve along with other local residents. Relevant environmental reports were shared such as salt impacts seen after similar developments and students were guided to research how forest cutting can lead to permanent effects on forests.
The final assessment task involved students writing a summary report on their findings, pulling together the analysis they made and using scientific vocabulary to show their understanding. They were also required in their groups to present their finding as a stakeholder and state whether the resort should or should not go ahead. Groups had to share evidence to support their perspectives.
Ski Resort Presentation Organizer