Time Frame
2 class periods of 45 minutes each
Life Skills
- Communication
- Social & Civic Responsibility
Summary
We can show respect for nature and the earth today by recycling, demonstrating conservation, and not littering. Service learning is an important part of education.
Materials
- Sacred Images A Vision of Native American Rock Art
- The Kids Guide to Service Projects, Barbara A. Lewis, 1995
- The Sacred Tree
- Large garbage bags
- Inexpensive latex gloves
Background for Teachers
Native Americans have a deep reverence for the earth and nature and a realization of the way we are all connected. Respect for nature and the earth, our Mother, has always been a part of their every day lives. Review the narratives from Sacred Images A Vision of Native American Rock Art and The Sacred Tree The rock art symbols as well as the words in The Sacred Tree tell us that we are interconnected and a part of the web of life.
Student Prior Knowledge
- Remind students that we belong to the earth and are interconnected."
- Review the other lessons of Sacred Images including Celebrations, Storytelling, and Culture.
Intended Learning Outcomes
- Students will understand the value of service.
- Students will contribute to the global community.
Instructional Procedures
Activity: Service Learning Project
- Organize students into small groups and assign an area of the school yard to clean. Work as a team and discuss what goes into being a good team member.
- Have a contest to see which group can pick up the most trash. You may wish to count garbage bags, or weigh the bags using a standard scale as well as a metric scale.
- Research Native American Indian values in relation to contests. How would the Native American Indians organize such a project?
Activity: Writing
- Ask students to write about this Service-Learning Activity, telling about what they did and what it feels like to make a difference in our world.
Activity: Brainstorm Additional Service Learning Ideas
-
What are other opportunities for service learning projects in your school? Students can brainstorm ideas which may include:
-
Recycling
- Cleaning graffiti from inside and outside school walls
- Planting trees or a garden at school
Research which products your school uses such as styrofoam, plastic or cleaning materials that may be harmful to the environment
- Encourage students and staff to ride bikes and or walk to school rather than drive cars
- Participate in Adopt an Elder Program
- Volunteer with the Indian Walk In Center
Created: 07/30/2006
Updated: 02/04/2018
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