Envi and Ron Steward

Grades: 
9, 10, 11, 12

Young people explore the impact of their own actions on their environment and develop a deeper understanding of what it means to be an environmental steward.
 

Duration 
PrintOne 50-Minute Session
Objectives 

The learner will:

  • define environmental stewardship.
  • explore the impact of one person and the impact of a collaborative effort.
Materials 
  • Powers of Ten - YouTube video illustrating comparing the magnitude of the universe to the miniscule molecule
Bibliography 

Instructions

Print
  1. Anticipatory Set:

    Show the YouTube video Power of Ten. Discuss thoughts that arise about the biggest and smallest things in our world. We are in this universe together, and we are all made of the same elements. Ask for their thoughts about our personal responsibility to take care of this shared universe. 

  2. The word stewardship means "the careful and responsible management of something." Discuss the meaning of environmental stewardship. Ask the young people why they think each person is responsible for environmental stewardship and why their actions matter. 

  3. Talk about how one person can have an impact by focusing on one element. We can't do it all, but we focus on something we care about and can model this behavior and influence others.

  4. Related: By taking care of our shared environment, I am also helping myself. I want to live in a world that is healthy for all. Optional: Define enlightened self-interest as "understanding that what is good for the community is good for me."

Philanthropy Framework

  1. Strand PHIL.II Philanthropy and Civil Society
    1. Standard PCS 03. Philanthropy and Economics
      1. Benchmark HS.5 Give examples of stewardship decisions throughout history and in current events.
  2. Strand PHIL.IV Volunteering and Service
    1. Standard VS 02. Service and Learning
      1. Benchmark HS.1 Select a service project based on interests, abilities, and research.
    2. Standard VS 03. Providing Service
      1. Benchmark HS.3 Describe the task and the student role.