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Eco-Quests

This list of questions is designed to develop students' critical and creative thinking skills, as well as increase their knowledge about ecology. Students can discuss these questions in small or large groups or use them as springboards for more advanced research projects.
How many creatures live in one handful of compost? How do these critters turn kitchen scraps into nutrient-rich humus? What can manufacturers do to reduce the amount of waste they produce? What would happen if all the world's earthworms died? How would humans be affected by this change? Why are rainforests so important to global ecology? What would happen if they were all destroyed? What external factors currently threaten the survival of today's rainforests? How can forests be used as a sustainable resource? How can forests be economically beneficial without being destroyed? Describe how animals, plants and humans are affected by different kinds of pollution. Why should people recycle? How does recycling benefit humans and the earth? How does air pollution affect weather patterns? How much waste do you produce in one day? What steps can you take to reduce the amount of trash you produce? Why have the populations of many bird species decreased in recent years? Which species are in serious decline? How are humans trying to help these endangered species survive? How do flower and vegetable gardens help the environment? Discuss how they benefit and/or harm humans and wildlife. What laws have been enacted in recent years to protect the environment? Have these laws been effective? If so, how? If not, why not? What is biodiversity? Why is it important to humans and the overall success of the earth?
Describe some ways that plants and animals form partnerships in nature. Are these partnerships successful? If so, how? Describe how one pollutant can affect an entire food chain or ecosystem. Discuss the positive and negative effects of using nuclear power as an energy source. What human actions are responsible for endangering the lives and homes of animals and plants around the world? How can humans reverse their harmful actions? How can humans benefit from the conservation of wildlife? Discuss how nature creates pollution. What are some sources of natural pollution? How does rain turn into acid rain? What effect does acid rain have on the environment? Which human activities are most responsible for causing acid rain? Which areas of the United States are most affected by acid rain? Why? What are some solutions to this problem? How are other nations facing this problem? Why are forests so valuable to humans? How do forests protect water resources, prevent flooding, purify air, and stabilize the world's climate? What is smog? Where is it found? What causes it to occur? How are humans trying to solve the smog crisis? Instead of using chemicals, what other ways can farmers fertilize their fields and remove large pest populations from their farm land? Why is the quality of soil getting worse? How can humans reverse this trend? Describe the role of each member of a food chain. What happens when one or more members of a food chain are removed?

Why are microorganisms so important in the development of an ecosystem? How has human overpopulation affected the world's natural resources and habitats? How are the world's waters getting polluted? How can this pollution be stopped? Discuss the greenhouse effect. How can humans reverse this trend? How can humans reduce the build-up of gases in the atmosphere? What impact will a rise in the earth's temperature have on global weather patterns, sea levels, or growing seasons? What regions of the world will be most affected by global warming? What is meant by environmental racism or environmental discrimination? How has the atmosphere changed over the last fifty years? What factors have affected these changes? Discuss human conservation efforts that have had a positive effect on the earth. What efforts have had a negative effect on the earth? In recent years, what methods have been used to increase the populations of endangered or threatened animal species? Have these efforts been successful? If so, how? If not, why not? When does an animal acquire threatened or endangered status? How do scientists get an accurate count of threatened and endangered plants and animals? What tracking methods do they use? Besides human influences, what natural causes can endanger a species? What environmental problems are caused by the use of fossil fuels as energy sources? Discuss the pros and cons of using renewable energy resources.
Celebrate Earth Day Every Day!
General Ecology Resources

Student Resources

Biodiversity. (1996). Written by Dorothy Hinshaw Patent. Illustrated by William Munoz. Published by Clarion Books. Hardcover. ISBN: 0-395-68704-7. 96 pages. (Ages 9-14). Focusing on the United States and model conservation efforts in Costa Rica, this outstanding publication describes biodiversity and discusses reasons why it's so important to maintain biodiversity in today's world. Eyewitness Science: Ecology. (1993). Written by Steve Pollock. Published by Dorling Kindersley. Hardcover. ISBN: 1-56458-326-0. 64 pages. (Ages 8 and up). This fantastic resource uses colorful photographs and accurate text to explore the fascinating relationship between animals, plants, humans, energy, and matter. The author discusses various ecological topics including food webs, habitats, transfer of energy, recycling, and human impact on the environment. Flute's Journey: The Life of a Wood Thrush. (1997). Written by Lynne Cherry. Published by Harcourt Brace and Company. Hardcover. ISBN: 0-15-292853-7. 40 pages. (Ages 4-8). This beautifully-illustrated story takes readers on an exciting journey through the first year of a wood thrush's lifefrom its hatching in a Maryland forest to its migration across the Gulf of Mexico to the Costa Rican rainforest and back again. Not only does this reverent environmental tale describe the perils faced by today's migratory songbirds (e.g., insects tainted with pesticides and a shrinking habitat), but it also presents a stunning account of the factors that ensure their survival (e.g., instinct, luck, and help from people who are working to protect habitat destruction). Just a Dream. (1990). Written by Chris Van Allsburg. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. Hardcover. ISBN: 0-395-53308-2. 32 pages. (Ages 5-10). This wellwritten fable offers a plea for environmental action and sends a message of hope for future generations. In this story, a young boy litters and refuses to sort trash for recycling, until he has a dream about an overcrowded and polluted future world. When he awakens from his terrifying nightmare, Walter rearranges his priorities and learns how to become ecologically conscious. Kids Who Make A Difference. (1996). Written by Gary Chandler and Kevin Graham. Published by Twenty-First Century Books. Hardcover. ISBN: 0-8050-4625-9. 64 pages. (Ages 10-14). This excellent resource focuses on some of the most innovative and successful environmental programs founded, implemented and run by young people. The Lorax. (1971). Written by Dr. Seuss. Published by Random House. Hardcover. ISBN: 0-394-82337-0. 70 pages. (All ages). In this classic story, the Once-ler describes how his greedy actions destroyed a beautiful and thriving environment. Children will enjoy the colorful characters and rhyming verse and adults will appreciate the subtle messages about the negative effects of deforestation, habitat destruction, and air and water pollution. Mighty Tree. (1992). Written by Dick Gackenbach. Published by Harcourt Brace and Company. Hardcover. ISBN: 0-15-200519-6. 32 pages. (Ages 4-8). This beautifully-illustrated story conveys a timely message about the use and protection of our natural resources. After three trees grow from tiny seeds in the forest, they each face different destiniesone goes to the paper mill, one is used as a Yuletide symbol, and the other becomes shelter for birds, insects and forest creatures. Mother Earth, Father Sky: Poems of Our Planet. (1995). Selected by Jane Yolen. Illustrated by Jennifer Hewitson. Published by Boyds Mills Press. Distributed by VHPS. Hardcover. ISBN: 1-56397-414-2. 64 pages. (Ages 10 and up). This outstanding collection of poems focuses on the earth's blessings and sacrifices. From C.S. Lewis to Christina Rossetti, this anthology contains the poetic words of thirty-five writers who pay tribute to our fragile world. Oil Spill! (1994). Written by Melvin Berger. Illustrated by Paul Mirocha. Published by HarperCollins. Paperback. ISBN: 0-06-445121-6. 32 pages. (Ages 5-9). Focusing on the 1989 Exxon Valdez oil tanker spill, this book explores why oil spills happen, how experts clean up after them, and what effect spilled oil has on ocean plants and wildlife. Once There Was a Tree. (1989). Written by Natalia Romanova. Illustrated by Gennady Spirin. Published by Dial Books. Paperback. ISBN: 0-14-054677-4. 32 pages. (Ages 5-9). This inspirational story traces the events that occur after a tree is cut down in the forestfrom the animals that visit the stump to the growth of a new seedling. Carefully-detailed illustrations enhance this tale's celebration of an ecosystem's interconnectedness.

Eco-Simulation

Peterson's Pond. (1997). Published by Interact. Order Number: 2003L. (Grades 4-8). Using the scientific method, students work in teams to uncover the mystery of why so many creatures in a nearby pond are dying. This simulation invites students to make observations and record them in a journal, use a microscope to view pond samples, determine the pH level of pond water, examine how pollution and water temperature affect pond life, and learn more about a pond's habitat and food web. This simulation includes a teacher's guide and 35 eight-page student guides.

Ecology Videos

Ecology Software
Decisions, Decisions 5.0: The Environment. Published by Tom Snyder Productions. Format: Windows/Mac CDROM. (Ages 10 and up). Students can use this outstanding computer simulation to learn more about pollution, economics, land use issues, recycling, and local and global environments. After reading the newspaper headlines about Alpine's polluted pond, students jump into the role of mayor and try to remedy the situation by seeking advice from four advisors (a scientist, a campaign manager, an environmentalist, and an economist). Learners gather and analyze data, facts and opinions about the polluted habitat and apply this information to making important social policy decisions. Earth Explorer. Published by Sunburst Communications. Format: Windows/Mac CD-ROM. (Ages 9-14). This excellent program challenges learners to investigate a wide array of ecology topics and environmental issues. Students can read more than 400 ecology-related articles, view photos and slide shows, watch video clips, play games, complete puzzler activities, listen to presentations on "hot topics" (wetlands, nuclear power, pesticides), and explore graphs and visuals.
The following companies produce dozens of high-quality science videos. Please contact each company for a complete listing of available ecology titles.
DK Vision DK Publishing, Inc. 95 Madison Avenue New York, NY 10016 Phone: (212) 213-4800 Fax: (212) 213-5240 National Geographic Society P.O. Box 98199 Washington, DC 20090-8199 Phone: (800) 627-5162 Sea World Education Department Attn.: Education Materials 500 Sea World Drive San Diego, CA 92109-7904 Phone: (800) 380-3202 Fax: (619) 226-3634 Time Classroom 1271 Avenue of the Americas Room 25-64 New York, NY 10020 Phone: (212) 522-7526 Fax: (212) 467-1605

One Day in the Tropical Rain Forest. (1990). Written by Jean Craighead George. Illustrated by Gary Allen. Published by HarperCollins. ISBN: 0-06-442016-7. 64 pages. (Ages 7-10). This magical story takes readers on an unforgettable journey through the wonderful tropical landscape of the rainforest. In order to stop the tragic destruction of his beloved home by a caravan of bulldozers, a young Indian boy, named Tepui, helps a visiting scientist search for a nameless butterfly. Other titles in this ecological series include: One Day in the Alpine Tundra (ISBN: 0-06-442027-2), One Day in the Desert (ISBN: 0-06-442038-8), One Day in the Prairie (ISBN: 0-06-442039-6), and One Day in the Woods (ISBN: 0-06-442017-5). Rain Forest Babies. (1996). Written by Kathy Darling. Photographs by Tara Darling. Published by Walker & Company. Hardcover. ISBN: 0-8027-8411-9. 32 pages. (Ages 4-8). This delightful volume uses lively prose and close-up photography to introduce readers to adorable newborn animals living in the world's lush rainforests. From 300-pound baby elephants to tiny jewel-like poisonous frogs, youngsters will enjoy learning about these adorable tropical babies. Rain Forest Secrets. (1990). Written by Arthur Dorros. Published by Scholastic, Inc. Hardcover. ISBN: 0-590-43369-5. 40 pages. (Ages 6-9). This fascinating resource invites young environmentalists to take a closer look at one of the world's most important and endangered ecosystems. Rain Forests and Reefs: A Kid's-Eye View of the Tropics. (1997). Written by Caitlin and Thane Maynard and Stan Rullman. Published by Franklin Watts. Paperback. ISBN: 0-531-15806-3. 64 pages. (Ages 8-14). The fourteen-year old author and her father present a scrapbook of their trip to Belize with the Cincinnati Zoo's Junior Zoologists Club. This unique resource uses journal entries, postcards, word definitions, color photographs, and profiles of naturalists to introduce readers to the diversity of life found in tropical rainforests and coral reefs. A Walk in the Rainforest. (1992). Written and illustrated by Kristin Joy Pratt. Published by Dawn Publications. Paperback. ISBN: 1-878265-53-9. 32 pages. (Ages 4-12). This remarkable alphabet book provides a colorful, stimulating way to explore the exotic plants and animals inhabiting tropical rainforests. Each page contains a fullcolor illustration accompanied by a paragraph of intriguing facts about the animal or plant's characteristics and habitat. Welcome to the Green House. (1993). Written by Jane Yolen. Illustrated by Laura Regan. Published by Putnam. Hardcover. ISBN: 0-399-22335-5. 32 pages. (Ages 4-8). This colorful introduction to rainforest ecology uses poetic verse and evocative images to explore the plants, trees, insects, birds, and animals living in this rich ecosystem.

Rainforest Web Sites

The Finished Product. After three or four months, your compost pile will turn dark and crumbly and smell like
earth. This new nutrient-rich material is called humus. You can use this organic material to perk up potted plants, fertilize your vegetable garden, or sprinkle on flower beds. Humus makes a great soil blender, top dressing, or mulch. Gift Idea: Share some of your humus with friends who like to garden. Bag it up and give it away!

Compost Resources

Compost! Growing Gardens from Your Garbage. (1996). Written by Linda Glaser. Illustrated by Anca Hariton. Published by Millbrook Press. Paperback. ISBN: 0-7613-0030-9. 32 pages. (Ages 5-8). Compost Critters. (1993). Written and illustrated by Bianca Lavies. Published by Dutton. Hardcover. ISBN: 0-525-44763-6. 32 pages. (Ages 7-11).
Earthworms benefit the earth in so many ways! Use the following list of resources to plan a fascinating curriculum unit that explores the mighty earthwormone of the world's most effective decomposers!
Earthworms: Underground Farmers. (1997). Written by Patricia Lauber. Illustrated by Todd Telander. Published by Henry Holt. Paperback. ISBN: 0-8050-4897-9. 64 pages. (Ages 8-12). Nature Close-Up: Earthworms. (1996). Written by Elaine Pascoe. Published by Blackbirch Press. Hardcover. ISBN: 1-56711-177-7. 48 pages. (Ages 8-14). Wonderful Worms. (1994). Written by Linda Glaser. Illustrated by Loretta Krupinski. Published by Millbrook Press. Paperback. ISBN: 1-56294-730-3. 32 pages. (Ages 5-8). Wormology. (1996). Written by Michael Elsohn Ross. Photographs by Brian Grogan. Illustrated by Darren Erickson. Published by Carolrhoda Books. Hardcover. ISBN: 0-87614-937-9. 48 pages. (Ages 6-9).
Teacher and Parent Resources
Compost This Book! The Art of Composting for Your Yard, Your Community, and the Planet. (1994). Written by Tom Christopher and Marty Asher. Published by Sierra Club Books. Distributed by Random House. Paperback. ISBN: 0-87156-596-X. 258 pages. Let It Rot! A Gardener's Guide to Composting. (1990). Written by Stu Campbell. Published by Storey Communications, Inc. Paperback. ISBN: 0-88266-635-5. 160 pages.

Web Sites

The Compost Resource Page www.oldgrowth.org/compost Cornell Composting www.cfe.cornell.edu/compost Gardenline: Yard: Garden www.ag.usak.ca/cofa/departments/hort/hortinfo/yards Humusphere Website www.composter.com

SPONSOR TRASHABLE TREASURES DAY!
Invite teachers, students, family members, and friends to donate trash. Some great reusable trash items might include: empty coffee cans, milk jugs, butter containers, cardboard boxes, baby food jars, frozen orange juice cans, shoe boxes, and oatmeal containers; discontinued wall paper books; rug and fabric scraps; egg cartons; tires; six pack rings; nylons; Styrofoam peanuts; popsicle sticks; soda can tabs; and much more. When all of the items have been collected, display the materials and invite interested people to select their favorite trashable treasures (free of charge). After all, one person's trash might be another person's treasure!
Discuss the following quote with Your students.

Earthwords

The friend of nature is the man who feels himself inwardly united with everything that lives in nature, who shares the fate of all creatures, helps them when he can in their pain and need, and as far as possible, avoids injuring or taking life. (Albert Schweitzer)
Start Your Own Recycling Program
Before you organize a recycling program with your students, you should teach them the three R's Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle. 1) Emphasize the importance of reducing the amount Of garbage Produced everyday. Have students keep track of their daily production of garbage and ask them to record the results in a journal. After a week, ask students to discuss the most common items on their lists. During the group discussion, ask students to brainstorm a list of ways that they can reduce the amount of garbage produced in the classroom and at home. Post a list of suggestions on a large poster board and ask students to practice garbage reduction in your classroom. 2) Emphasize the importance of reusing certain items, such as lunch bags, cardboard products, plastic utensils, and more. Have students take a walk around the school and make a list of all the items that can be reused. Ask them to share the results with the entire school and invite all staff members and students to practice reusing certain garbage items. 3) Emphasize the importance of recycling. Many common school items such as white paper, construction. paper, newspaper, cans, glass and plastic bottles can and should be recycled. Discuss the need to recycle other household items, such as tires, aluminum foil, jars, metal cans and more. invite interested students to set up a recycling center in your classroom. If you do not have a recycling program in your school, now is the time to get one started.

Getting Started:

Form a committee of people who are interested in starting a recycling program in your school. This committee can be large or small, but it should be represented by members of the administration, teaching staff, student body, parent groups, and janitorial staff. Select one person as the committee chairperson and group representative. The role of this person is to act as a public speaker and recruiter. Assign each committee member specific responsibilities, such as setting up recycling bins, bringing recycled items to redemption center, collecting recycled items from each classroom, etc. After all of the duties have been assigned, roll up your sleeves and get to work! Not only will this learning experience be memorable, but it will also be helpful to the environment! Invite committee members to research local recycling programs in your area. Find out about the recycling practices of other schools, small businesses, municipal offices, and public organizations. Research the city-run recycling programs and private hauling companies to learn more about pick-up schedules and price estimates. Look in the phone book under "recycling" to find contacts and phone numbers. After this research, make arrangements for the pick-up or drop-off of recycled items.

Suggestions

Start small (individual classrooms and cafeteria) and continue to grow as support strengthens. Invite members of local newspapers to visit your school and view your recycling program. If the success of your program is shared with citizens and other schools, perhaps other recycling programs will be started, too.
Decide What Needs to Be Recycled:
Research the garbage in your school by completing an informal analysis of the trash. Empty out random garbage cans in your school and analyze the contents. Ask teachers to monitor what is thrown away in their classrooms. Ask janitorial staff members for observations. The main items recycled in schools are: white paper, other paper (construction), cans (aluminum), bottles, newspapers, and boxes.
Set Up Recycling Stations:
Set up recycling bins for white paper, construction paper, and newspaper in each classroom. Have teachers mark each bin clearly and place them next to the garbage cans. Ask one student per classroom to serve as a monitor. (Rotate this responsibility on a weekly basis). This student is responsible for organizing the week's recycled items and transporting them to the school's recycling center. Set up recycling bins for paper in the offices. Set up recycling bins for paper, plastic, aluminum, and glass in the cafeteria. The committee members who are responsible for organizing and collecting the recycled materials in the cafeteria, should monitor this station on a daily basis and empty any overflowing bins. Designate a storage area in the school as the recycling center. This area should be readily accessible to student monitors and committee members in charge of collecting the recycled items. (Storage bins should be fireproof and made of metal or fire resistant plastic).

Reduce Reuse Recycle Reduce Reuse Recycle
Start a Toy Repair Shop. Extend the life of toys by opening a toy repair shop that fixes broken trucks, torn teddy bears, games with missing pieces, etc. Start a Lending Library. Invite students to donate old toys, games, books, and magazines to a classroom lending library. Set up a center where all students can enjoy and borrow the materials.

Parent Page

Families Enjoying Nature Together!
This collection of outstanding activity books invites families to venture into their backyards and find exciting ways to explore different aspects of the natural worldfrom bugs and slugs to leaves and trees. Beastly Abodes: Homes for Birds, Bats, Butterflies & Other Backyard Wildlife. (1996). Written by Bobbe Needham. Published by Sterling Publishing Company, Inc. Paperback. ISBN: 0-8069-3169-8. 144 pages. City Kids and City Critters! Activities for Urban Explorers. (1996). From the Houston Arboretum & Nature Center and written by Janet Wier Roberts and Carole Huelbig. Illustrated by Kim Salinas. Published by McGraw-Hill. Paperback. ISBN: 0-07-053201-X. 160 pages. The Curiosity Club: Kids' Nature Activity Book. (1992). Written by Allene Roberts. Published by John Wiley and Sons. Paperback. ISBN: 0-471-55589-4. 192 pages. Earth Child 2000: Early Science for Children. (1997). Written by Kathryn Sheehan and Mary Waidner, Ph.D. Published by Council Oak Books. Paperback. ISBN: 1-57178-054-8. 480 pages. EcoArt! Earth-Friendly Art & Craft Experiences for 3 to 9 Year-Olds. (1993). Written by Laurie Carlson. Published by Williamson Publishing Company. Paperback. ISBN: 0-913589-68-3. 160 pages. Good Earth Art: Environmental Art for Kids. (1991). Written by MaryAnn F. Kohl and Cindy Gainer. Published by Bright Ring Publishing. Distributed by Independent Publishers Group. Paperback. ISBN: 0-935607-01-3. 244 pages. Hands-On Nature: Information and Activities for Exploring the Environment with Children. (1987). Edited by Jenepher Lingelbach. Published by University Press of new England. Distributed by Independent Publishers Group. Paperback. ISBN: 0-961762-70-5. 233 pages. Janice VanCleave's Ecology for Every Kid: Easy Activities That Make Learning Science Fun. (1996). Written by Janice VanCleave. Published by John Wiley and Sons. Paperback. ISBN: 0-471-10086-2. 240 pages. The Kids' Wildlife Book: Exploring Animal Worlds Through Indoor/Outdoor Experiences. (1994). Written by Warner Shedd. Published by Williamson Publishing Company. Paperback. ISBN: 0-913589-77-2. 160 pages. More Teaching Kids to Love the Earth: 156 Environmental Activities for Parents and Other Teachers. (1994). Written by Marina Lachecki and James Kasperson. Published by PfeifferHamilton. Paperback. ISBN: 1-57025-040-5. 192 pages. Nature for the Very Young: A Handbook of Indoor & Outdoor Activities. (1989). Written by Marcia Bowden. Published by John Wiley and Sons. Paperback. ISBN: 0-471-62084-X. 240 pages. Nature in a Nutshell for Kids: Over 100 Activities You Can Do in Ten Minutes or Less. (1995). Written by Jean Potter. Published by John Wiley and Sons. Paperback. ISBN: 0-471-04444-X. 144 pages. Nature Smart: A Family Guide to Nature. (1995). Written by Stan Tekiela and Karen Shanberg. Published by Adventure Publications. Paperback. ISBN: 1-885061-08-0. 300 pages. Play Lightly on the Earth: Nature Activities for Children 3 to 9 Years Old. (1997). Written by Jacqueline Horsfall. Published by Dawn Publications. Paperback. ISBN: 1-883220-68-8. 176 pages. Projects for a Healthy Planet: Simple Environmental Experiments for Kids. (1992). Written by Shar Levine and Allison Grafton. Illustrated by Terry Chui. Published by John Wiley and Sons. Paperback. ISBN: 0-471-55484-7. 96 pages. Sharing the Joy of Nature: Nature Activities for All Ages. (1989). Written by Joseph Cornell. Published by Dawn Publications. Paperback. ISBN: 1-916124-52-5. 176 pages. Slugs, Bugs and Salamanders: Discovering Animals in Your Garden. (1997). Written by Sally Kneidel. Illustrated by AnnaMaria Crum. Published by Fulcrum Publishing. Paperback. ISBN: 1-55591-313-X. 128 pages. Talking to Fireflies, Shrinking the Moon: Activities for All Ages. (1997). Written by Edward Duensing. Published by Fulcrum Publishing. Paperback. ISBN: 1-55591-310-5. 144 pages. Teaching Kids to Love the Earth: Sharing a Sense of Wonder.186 Outdoor Activities for Parents and Other Teachers. (1991). Written by Marina Herman, Joseph Passineau, Ann Schimpf, and Paul Treuer. Published by Pfeiffer-Hamilton. Paperback. ISBN: 0-938586-42-4. 192 pages. Watching Wildlife: The National Wildlife Federation Guide to Observing Animals in the Wild. (1997). Written by Joe La Tourrette. Published by Henry Holt. Paperback. ISBN: 0-8050-4685-2. 160 pages. Watching Wildlife: Tips, Gear and Great Places for Enjoying America's Wild Creatures. (1995). Written by Mark Damian Duda. Published by Falcon Press. Paperback. ISBN: 1-56044-315-4. 120 pages.

Environmental Issues Forums
The Biodiversity Debate: Exploring the Issue. North American Association for Environmental Education in collaboration with World Wildlife Fund. Although rain forests are often appropriately cited for their incredible biodiversity, it is likely that within a short distance from any metropolitan area, one can find natural environments that support a wide array of plants and animals. When land use patterns in these diverse areas are altered, community debates arise and polarization often sets in. This guide shows how to approach these controversies through the development of Environmental Issues Forums (ElFs) designed to bring citizens together in locally initiated, nonpartisan discussions about environmental issues that concern them. This superb 43-page guide provides civic and educational organizations, high schools and colleges, service organizations, religious groups, governmental agencies and others with a place to start, all with a common goal of finding solutions at the community level. #EE-6518. Also available, THE ISSUE IN BRIEF, a 16-page booklet summarizing the major points detailed in the comprehensive guidebook. #EE-6519.
Fisheries for the Future. World Wildlife Fund in cooperation with Monetary Boy Aquarium and the Harbinger Institute. As the demand for seafood continues to grow, the total world fish catch is declining and most fish stocks are past the stage of increasing production. What are the human, economic, and biological costs of fisheries mismanagement? How can we best manage our fisheries so that they are sustainable? This 4-part guide provides everything needed to engage citizens in thought-provoking discussions about these issues. It includes background information, perspective pieces, suggestions for further reading, and a supporting web site with additional information and hotlinks to other pertinent web sites. The guide provides civic and educational organizations, high schools and colleges, religious groups, governmental agencies, and others with a basis for meaningful dialogue aimed at understanding the issues and finding solutions. #EE-8702. Going, Going, Almost Gone! Animals in Danger Education Kit. World Wildlife Fund and Home Box Office Biodiversity, poaching, habitat loss, and other issues are explored in this award-winning 28-minute video and accompanying educator's guide and poster. Designed for elementary students, Going, Going, Almost Gone! is hosted by comedian Jim Fyfe and combines innovative animated segments with live-action footage and interviews with children. The video also features the voices of celebrity actors including Edward Asner, Judd Hirsh, jasmine Guy, Marlo Thomas and others. The accompanying educator's guide includes key concepts, hands-on activities, and resources to help parents and teachers explore environmental issues with students. The video won an Emmy for best primetime children's special and the prestigious Environmental Media Association Award for children's live action. Kit includes 28minute video, 32-page educator's guide, and a dramatic 26" x 38" biodiversity poster entitled Biodiversity: The Real World Wide Web. #EE-5664. Biodiversity! Exploring the Web of Life Education Kit. World Wildlife Fund Earth Force, and WQED/Pittsburgh. This award-winning video kit will open your students' eyes to the amazing world of biodiversity. The half-hour video features colorful footage, lively music, on-the-street interviews, short documentaries, and interviews with some of the world's leading biodiversity experts. Hosted by Wilson Cruz and Devon Odessa, two young stars from the highly acclaimed TV program, My So Called Life, the video explores what biodiversity is about, why it is important, what the status is worldwide, and what people can do locally The kit also features a 21-page educator's guide designed for use with students in grades 6-10, and WOW!A Biodiversity Primer, WWF's full color magazine-style resource for students. #EE-5663.

Posters

BiodiversityFrom Sea to Shining Sea Poster Kit. World Wildlife Fund. This dramatic 22" x 34" two-sided poster celebrates World Wildlife Fund's Windows on the Wild biodiversity education program. The front of this colorful poster features twelve striking plant and animal images, celebrating the tremendous diversity of life on Earth. The back of the poster features a map depicting threatened ecoregions in the United States. The kit includes two posters (allowing educators to display both sides) and a 12-page educator's guide containing useful information about the importance of maintaining biodiversity along with creative suggestions for using the poster to stimulate discussion. #PO-5665. World Wildlife Fund is a nonprofit conservation organization dedicated to protecting the world's biological diversity. For more information concerning WWF's conservation and education programs, please visit www.worldwildlife.org, or write at 1250 TwentyFourth Street NW, Washington, DC 20037.

Pollution Catchers

The air contains millions of tiny floating particles, some of which are air pollutants. Invite students to make pollution catchers to measure the amount of pollution found in different interior and exterior locations around your school.
1. Decide on 5-12 different locations to place the pollution catchers. Some interesting places might include: school cafeteria, library, teachers lounge, principal's office, gym, bathroom, closet, playground, tree, lamp post, window, and outside front door. 2. Label each card with a location name. (Put one card aside and label it "control"). 3. Smear each card (including the control card) with a thin layer of vaseline. Use tape to secure each pollution catcher to its correct location. Wrap the control card with clear plastic wrap and place it in a labeled envelope.

ls: Materia

cards Plain index ne Vaseli Envelope Pen wrap lear plastic C e Tap
4. Leave the pollution catchers up for 1 week. Invite students to observe the cards during this time and have them keep notes on their findings. At the end of 1 week, have students remove the cards and wrap each one with clear plastic wrap. 5. When the cards are ready, have students use a magnifying glass or microscope to take a close-up look at each card and have them compare the cards to each other and the control card. After looking at the cards, have them discuss their findings and their previous observation notes.
Possible Discussion Questions:
What kinds of particles are present? Describe what these particles look like. Where do you think these particles came from? Which card collected the most particles? Where was this card located? Which card, besides the control card, collected the least particles? Where was this card located? What do these results tell you about the school's air pollution? Is there more pollution inside or outside the school? Are you surprised by these results? Why? What are the main sources of air pollution? Where are these sources located? What can you do with these results? With whom can you share this information? How can school personnel improve air quality in and around the school?

EARTH D A Y! E V E R Y DA Y

The Beauty of a Tree

As I look at the tree outside, I marvel at its beauty and size. Providing shade and cleaner air; I wonder what it's like up there In the treetops, way up high, Reaching up towards the sky. I look at all the critters go, up and down and to and fro. The birds enjoy the bugs and fruit; They whistle and hum a solemn salute. The squirrels run atop the limbs, Collecting nuts, while the sunlight dims. As evening nears, I walk away From this giant by the bay. I make a wish about this tree That its beauty will last for eternity!

Project Idea

Create a local tree identification book. Take photographs of trees in your school yard and community. Use field guides to identify and collect facts about each tree. Gather the following information about tree characteristics: height, girth, approximate age, bark (color, design, and texture), leaves and flowers (size, shape, color, and texture), and seeds (size, shape, color, texture, and seed dispersal method). Mount photographs and tree facts/descriptions on colored construction paper or poster board. Include pressed leaves and flowers, bark rubbings, and seed specimens if possible. Use a three-ring binder to organize the pages into alphabetical order. Present the finished product to the local library or town hall.
Plant Trees That Have Historical Roots!
American Forests, the nation's oldest nonprofit citizens' conservation organization, sponsors The Famous and Historic Trees Project, an exciting concept that combines contemporary conservation with America's historical heritage. This unique organization identifies trees from all across America and around the world that are associated with significant people or events in American history. They take the seeds from these one-of-a-kind trees, help them grow into small and healthy trees, and make them available to interested individuals. American Forests' main goal focuses on planting and preserving trees all across America. Individuals can purchase trees for $35.00 each and can choose from trees that once belonged to different historical periods (Colonial America, American Revolution, and Civil War) or famous people (presidents, artists, writers, inventors, war leaders, and politicians). Some American Forests trees include: Ronald Reagan Hackberry Antietam Sycamore Manassas Mimosa Clara Barton Redbud Dwight Eisenhower Cottonwood Martin Luther King Jr. Water Oak Orville and Wilbur Wright Sweetgum Napoleon Weeping Willow To order trees, please contact: Famous and Historic Trees 8701 Old Kings Road Jacksonville, FL 32219 1-800-320-TREE American Forests also offers an educational program called "Living Classrooms." This program provides schools and organizations with lesson plans, trees, written resources, and materials for growing historical trees and becoming actively involved in the environment. Lesson plans show educators and group leaders how to help children participate in hands-on activities involving science, history, conservation, language arts, geography, sociology, art, mathematics, and music.

them, (2) raise money through fund-raisers, or (3) contact American Forests directly, by writing a letter of interest and stating a need for corporate sponsorship or grant monies. American Forests has had great success in finding corporate sponsors and grant money for schools who are interested in participating in this unique program. Educators interested in learning more about the "Living Classrooms" program and available funding should contact Laurie Mead or Susan Corbett at 1-800-320-TREE (1-800-320-8733). Letters of interest should be sent to: American Forests 8701 Old Kings Road Jacksonville, FL 32219 A complimentary copy of American Forests Famous and Historic Trees catalog accompanies this newsletter.

Do You Grow Each Year?

Longfellow, when asked the secret of his continued interest in life, pointed to a nearby apple tree. He said, "The purpose of that apple tree is to grow a little new wood each year. That is what I plan to do." If you don't grow a little new wood each year, you'll become stagnant and chances for growth and opportunities will be minimized. Source: Potential, The Newsletter of People Building Institute 330 Village Circle Sheldon, IA 51201.

Eyes on Nature

"The clearest way into the universe is through a forest wilderness." John Muir The "Eyes on Nature" section presents a collection of facts, background information, and student activities designed for children in grades K-12. Some activities are more advanced than others and may require teacher supervision. The following activities focus on the study of trees through different curricular areas, including: science, math, history, language arts, visual arts, and performing arts. The activities were developed by Debra L. Briatico.
Research the life of a famous naturalist and write a short biography. Some famous naturalists might include: John James Audubon, Daniel Boone, John Chapman, John Muir, and Henry David Thoreau. Go for a walk and listen to different trees. What sounds are they making? What natural events are causing the trees to make sounds? Use an audio-tape recorder to capture the different sounds. Play the audio-tape for some friends and challenge them to identify the source of each sound. Collect Tree Products. Brainstorm a list of products made from trees. Share your list with other students and ask them to add suggestions. Bring your list home, walk around your house, and write down additional products. After one day of brainstorming, gather items from your list and make a display. The display can include actual products (paper, pencils, tools, toys, film, fabric, foods, gum, books, etc.), illustrations, posters, photographs, and/ or models (boats, homes, furniture). Label each item and write a short description about its origin. Organize a tree club. Some activities might include: researching trees that grow in your community; growing seeds and planting trees; raising money for groups that are trying to save the rainforests, ancient forests, or tropical forests; and increasing awareness by spreading information about the importance of trees. Compare the temperature of a completely sunny area with that of an area shaded by a tree. During a oneweek period, take various measurements throughout each day in a sunny spot and shady area. At the end of one week, make a chart comparing the temperatures of the two areas. Share the results and discuss the importance of shade in extremely hot climates. Write a shape poem about a special tree. Include descriptions about the tree's characteristics and reasons why this tree holds such an important place in your heart.