"Explore your environment. Put learning into action.”
Earth Wise guides participants through an inquiry-based exploration of the environment, beginning with their interests and the places where they live, learn, and play. They investigate ecosystems, natural resources, environmental challenges, green careers, and practical solutions. The experience culminates in an action project that applies their learning to an environmental priority in their school or community.
Goal
To empower participants to understand environmental systems, make informed decisions about natural resources, and lead practical actions that support healthier, more sustainable communities.
Objectives
Problem solving skills. Identify an environmental challenge, examine its causes and effects, compare possible responses, and explain a decision using evidence.
Research skills. Ask focused questions, gather observations and information, evaluate sources, and interpret environmental data.
Management skills. Plan an action project, organize people and materials, assign responsibilities, and track progress against a stated goal.
Outcomes
- Greater understanding of ecosystems, natural resources, and how human activities affect the environment.
- An evidence-based explanation of a local environmental challenge and at least one feasible response.
- A documented environmental action project with a clear goal, responsibilities, and a measure of progress.
- A portfolio of observations, data, creative work, and reflections connecting academic learning to environmental leadership.
References
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. (2026). What is environmental education?
https://www.epa.gov/education/what-environmental-education
UNESCO. (n.d.). Education for sustainable development.
https://www.unesco.org/en/sustainable-development/education
