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Learning about the World Around Us

With an emphasis on science and social studies, this week's featured sites, tools, and lesson plans include resources for teaching about Humanitarian Day, global warming, our national parks, and more!

Grades K-5

EekoWorld

Teach your students the importance of taking care of the earth with this interactive tool. Create and care for your own Eeko Monster. Explore the EekoHouse to learn about energy-saving and conservation tips. See our review for lesson integration ideas.

Grades 3-8

WebRangers

Use gamification to teach about our national parks. Customize a ranger station, earn rewards, and play new activities. Go on a virtual hike or track daily progress on actual hiking trails. Don't miss the Teacher's Guide with over 50 activities!

Grades 7-12

The Migrant Trail

This reality simulation explores The Migrant Trail from the perspectives of both the undocumented Mexican migrant and the border patrol officer. Learn what drives migrants to risk their lives and the humanitarian aspects of being a patrol officer.

Humanitarians through History

August 19th is Humanitarian Day. Learn about World War I heroes, explore the life of Nelson Mandela, and discover how timelines can help highlight humanitarians throughout history.

Grades 7-12

The Volunteers: Americans Join World War I, 1914-1919 Curriculum

Find 22 ready to go lesson plans. Each lesson includes resources, activities, national and global standards, objectives, background essays, essential questions, instructions, extension activities, assessments, teaching tips, student handouts, and more.

Grades 4-12

Nelson Mandela Biography

Navigate this site to view photos and videos profiling Mandela's life and leadership. Find a printable study guide that includes vocabulary, extension activities, and more. Read our full review for suggestions on how to use in the classroom.

Grades 4-12

This Day in History

What happened today in history? This site contains timelines appropriate for many content areas. View a timeline of famous humanitarians from Abraham Lincoln to Civil Rights leaders and much more. Many timelines include video clips.

Tools for Teaching about Climate Change

  This trio of resources includes a museum tour, website, and lesson plans to help students learn more about climate change. 

Grades 4-12

Climate Change

Visit the American Museum of Natural History site to learn about climate change in the past, present, and future. There is lots to explore on this site and underlined vocabulary words are defined. Find suggestions for using with your class in our review.

Grades 8-12

TakingITGlobal

TakingITGlobal is a network of young people designed to foster learning about, engaging with, and problem solving real-world issues. Find information and projects related to global warming and other environmental topics and see how others are helping.

Grades 6-12

NOW for Educators: Global Warming

Affiliated with the PBS program NOW, this site offers an extensive standards-linked lesson on global warming. View transcripts, video clips, printable PDFs, and much more

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