Students as Park Stewards

Taking a broad, multi-disciplinary approach to environmentalism, 6th through 8th graders served as stewards of a state park.  They learned how personal decisions affect the environment, and demonstrated their growing awareness of community issues.

They worked in small groups to build watershed models, collect water samples, and make educational materials such as environment-themed games, stories, and displays.  Their responsibilities required them use a number of curricular areas. Math, science, and technology classes taught them how to chart and analyze the collected samples and data. Art and communications studies helped them prepare age-appropriate environmental games and presentations for other students, and represent issues at state park meetings. 

By spending so much time at the state park, these students not only benefited the park, but also learned from it, as when they witnessed professional park officials conducting a controlled burn.

Adapted from "Route to Reform: K-8 service-learning Curriculum Ideas," © 1994-95 National Youth Leadership Council.