Created by Chris Thoms
Biography:
I am Chris Thoms, a seventh-grade early world history teacher at Bothwell Middle School in Marquette. I grew up in Chicago, but have lived in the UP for the last 9 years. I have a toddler at home, Clementine, and a wonderful wife who is a PA! We love enjoying all of the seasons the UP has to offer, especially the variety of outdoor activities.
Title of Lesson: Environmental Impact on Local Ecosystems
Subject Area: Social Studies/ Environmental Science
Grade Level: 7
Approximate Time to Do Lesson: 3 Days (50-minute blocks each day)
Overview: Exploring Environmental Conservation and Community Activism Through the Preservation Efforts at Little Presque Isle. This lesson connects historical preservation efforts at Little Presque Isle to contemporary environmental issues, fostering a deeper understanding of the impact of community activism on local ecosystems and biodiversity.
Standards Addressed:
MS-ESS3-3: Apply scientific principles to design a method for monitoring and minimizing a human impact on the environment.
MS-LS2-4: Construct an argument supported by empirical evidence that changes to physical or biological components of an ecosystem affect populations.
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RH.6-8.2: Determine the central ideas or information of a primary or secondary source; provide an accurate summary of the source distinct from prior knowledge or opinions.
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RH.6-8.7: Integrate visual information (e.g., in charts, graphs, photographs, videos, or maps) with other information in print and digital texts.
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RH.6-8.9: Analyze the relationship between a primary and secondary source on the same topic.
Modifications for Diverse Learning Needs:
Visual Learners:
- Provide visual aids such as maps, diagrams, and images to support understanding.
- Encourage the creation of visual representations (infographics, charts) to convey information.
Auditory Learners:
- Incorporate audio resources like podcasts or guest speaker recordings.
- Allow for oral presentations or discussions to cater to their learning style.
Kinesthetic Learners:
- Include hands-on activities during the field trip to Little Presque Isle/Wetmore.
- Implement interactive tasks like role-playing or simulations.
- Differentiated Instruction:
- Modify assignments based on student readiness, interest, and learning profiles.
- Provide additional support through peer tutoring, small group instruction, or technology tools.
Lesson Objectives:
- Analyze primary source documents from the 1970s-1990s regarding the potential campground on Little Presque Isle.
- Identify and evaluate the pros and cons of establishing a campground on Little Presque Isle.
- Examine the role of CSSS in preserving natural areas through advocacy efforts.
- Explore the impact of human activities on ecosystems and biodiversity
Download the Lesson Plans and Support Files Below
- Lesson 1: Environmental Impact on Local Ecosystems - Lesson Plan (document)
- Lesson 1: In Memory of the Lorax, Donald Snitgen (document)
- Lesson 1: MSS-096, Task Force Summary Report (document)
- Lesson 1: MSS-096 Task Force Documents(research documents)