Research shows that place-based learning that focuses on the New Jersey-specific effects of climate change and the local actions that impact global trends are more likely to make a lasting impact on students.
Climate Change Units:
Developed in partnership with Sustainable Jersey & Rutgers CMSCE
- The Benefit of Trees: A 15-20 Hour Project-Based Learning Unit
- This free, interdisciplinary unit examines the environmental, social, and ecological benefits of trees. Designed for middle or high school sustainability or environmental science electives, it can also be used as a summer program. The training includes ready-to-use lesson plans, presentations, and student materials. Through active, inquiry-based learning, students will engage in data collection, analysis, and discussions to understand how trees address climate change. Topics include urban heat islands, carbon sequestration, equitable access to green spaces, and the positive impact of increasing tree canopy coverage on communities.
- Integrating Climate Change into Curriculum using New Jersey Resources and Datasets
- This resource provides guidance on incorporating state-specific climate-related resources into OpenSciEd's 7th-grade Unit 7.6, Earth's Resources and Human Impact. These place-based learning opportunities connect climate change concepts to the real-world impacts on students’ communities and New Jersey.
- Access All Resources Here