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Will our state survive the next 100 years?
Every state is uniquely great. From coastlines to mountains to rolling prairies, our landscape is diverse. In this project, students will become aware of the need for a sustainable world by focusing directly on their own state’s sustainability. They will use their creativity to design a book about their state that informs readers how small changes can develop a more sustainable world. Finally, they’ll publish their book and sell it for a charitable cause.
Imagine if thousands of kids just like yours were able to promote sustainable practices and become agents of change. What an incredible force for good!
Project Learning Targets
Lesson 1: Students understand the importance of sustainability.
Lesson 2: Students expand their understanding of the importance of sustainability.
Lesson 3: Students learn about the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Lesson 4: Students conduct research to gather relevant information about their state.
Lesson 5: Students create an infographic that represents their UN Sustainable Development Goal.
Lesson 6: Students create a rough draft of their state book pages.
Lesson 7: Students revise their writing to improve upon their ideas.
Lesson 8: Students use technology to create a published book.
For lesson descriptions, download the project overview.
For K–8 content connections, download the content correlations.
What is included with your project?
Sample Online Resources
- Tragedy of the Commons (YouTube)
- “Fish On!” Math Activity
- “Fish On!” Simulator
- “Wear It, Share It” Game
- Nonfiction Text Features
- And so much more!
Kit Supplies
- Pre-wrap for Headbands
- Pom Poms
- Pencils
- Dry Erase Deck of Cards
- UN Sustainable Development Goal Cards
- English Language Arts: Theme
- Math: Number Patterns
- Science: Environmental Impact
- Social Studies: Taking Informed Action
- Social-Emotional Learning: Responsible Decision-Making and Relationship Skills
- Skype a Professor
- Meet and Tweet with the Kings of the Spring
- Learn from a Wildlife Biologist
- Invite the DNR
- Consult a Publishing Expert
- Support the Scientist
- ‘Ello, Guv-nor!’
Collaboration Options
Swap your book with pen pals across the states who are also doing the project and have students share similarities and differences about sustainability within each state.
- Engagement Hooks
- Connections and Rapport
To see a complete list of what’s included in your project, download the project overview.
About the Author
Paul Solarz
4th Grade Teacher
Westgate Elementary School
Arlington Heights, IL
Each Blue Apple Project Includes:
- Engaging lessons designed to make learning memorable, meaningful, and fun
- PBL Supports such as: real-world connections, collaboration options, cross-curricular content, and just-in-time professional development
- Time-saving links to dozens of curated online resources
- Kit of supplies that bring your project to life
- Access to a Project Coach to ask questions and share ideas... you're never alone!
